Lambing Season – Please Keep Dogs on Leads

Lambing season will soon be underway across our local countryside, and this is a particularly sensitive time for sheep and lambs.

Trowell Parish Council would like to remind residents and visitors using public footpaths and rights of way to keep dogs on a short lead when walking through or alongside fields containing livestock, especially during February and March.

Even well-behaved dogs can instinctively chase sheep, particularly at lambing time. This can cause serious distress to ewes, leading to injury, abortion, exhaustion or, in some cases, death.

Dog control applies:

• Even if sheep appear calm

• Even if livestock are some distance away

• Even if a dog is normally well trained

Under UK law, farmers are entitled to protect their livestock. If a dog is worrying livestock and cannot be brought under control, a farmer may lawfully shoot the dog as a last resort. Penalties for livestock worrying have also increased.

These situations are entirely avoidable through responsible dog ownership. Keeping dogs on leads helps protect animal welfare, supports local farmers and ensures everyone can enjoy the countryside safely.

If you encounter any issues on public rights of way, such as obstructions or overgrown vegetation, these can be reported via Nottinghamshire County Council’s website: Submit a public rights of way enquiry – Nottinghamshire County Council

Thank you for your cooperation and for respecting our rural communities.