Taking the Lead on livestock worrying: "Ultimately, this baseless crime must end and it can only do so through respect"

Reporter Chris Brayford discusses the impact livestock worrying can have on farmers and why respect from dog owners for the countryside is paramount to solving the problem in the future.

Chris Brayford
clock • 2 min read
"Listening to the pain in a farmer's voice when they have just recalled a distressing livestock worrying incident, and its subsequent ramifications, is one of the most difficult parts of my job."
Image:

"Listening to the pain in a farmer's voice when they have just recalled a distressing livestock worrying incident, and its subsequent ramifications, is one of the most difficult parts of my job."

It never gets easier when another incident of livestock worrying is reported, often leaving livestock dead or barely alive after fighting for their life. Listening to the pain in a farmer's voice when...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358
Register for free Join Now

 

More on Rural crime

Humberside Police issue stark warning of driving on private farmland to commit hare coursing and poaching
Rural crime

Humberside Police issue stark warning of driving on private farmland to commit hare coursing and poaching

Following the arrest of two men convicted of hare coursing, the police force say they will go to great measures to seize vehicles crossing private land to commit crimes

Mia Willemsen
clock 22 February 2026 • 2 min read
Pride and joy of farming being taken away by livestock worrying, farmers warn
Rural crime

Pride and joy of farming being taken away by livestock worrying, farmers warn

As the cost of livestock worrying increased by 10% to nearly £2m in 2025, farmers said the problem is only getting worse. Will livestock worrying ever get any better for the farming sector?

Chris Brayford
Chris Brayford
clock 21 February 2026 • 7 min read
EA rolls out new strategies to combat waste crime
Rural crime

EA rolls out new strategies to combat waste crime

Over half of farmers experience waste crime on their land - now new surveillance and investigative measures aim to prevent criminals before they even get started

Mia Willemsen
clock 20 February 2026 • 2 min read