South Downs National Park urges dog owners to be aware and Take the Lead

South Downs National Park urges dog owners to be aware and Take the Lead

March 9, 2016

“We have been shocked to hear about the attack on a flock of sheep at West Dean,” says Phil Belden, Director of Operations at the South Downs National Park Authority. “We know how devastating these events are for farmers – not just financially but also in having to deal with the aftermath. Our ranger teams work closely with the farmers in the South Downs to ensure that farming, wildlife and people enjoying the National Park can happily co-exist.

“We are giving support to the farmer hit by a devastating attack on his flock of sheep in West Sussex and ask dog owners to be aware of where their dogs are when out and about and when at home, and to keep them under close control whether you live in or are visiting the National Park.”

The National Park is a farmed landscape and grazing is vital for the maintenance of internationally rare habitats in the National Park such as chalk grassland and lowland heath. These managed landscapes also help to provide the spectacular views so beloved by residents and visitors alike.

As well as seeking compensation farmers can legally shoot a dog caught chasing livestock.

The National Park Authority has been running a ‘Take the Lead’ campaign for three years to raise awareness of the importance of keeping dogs under control so that owners and dogs can enjoy the National Park whilst respecting its wildlife, farmers and their livestock. Find out more

If you see a sheep attack please call the police immediately on 101.

A new campaign called SheepWatch UK has been set up to try and encourage the general public to help keep sheep safe across the nation. For more details see SheepWatch UK on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ToLovesheep/