Work by the FUW, in association with the Animal Welfare Network Wales (AWNW), has led to the production of distinctive black and yellow gatepost signs which aim to help combat livestock worrying in Wales.
The signs, which are provided free of charge, will be available to collect from Wynnstay stores across Wales and the FUW is encouraging landowners to display these signs on their land to help persuade dog owners to enjoy the countryside responsibly.
Member organisations from the AWNW joined forces to create the distinctive gatepost signs as part of the special initiative ‘Animals, Land and You’ which was launched last year at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair. This initiative aims to help "dogs, livestock and other animals live harmoniously alongside one another".
The organisations involved include the Farmers’ Union of Wales, Hope Rescue, The British Horse Society, Great Dane Care, Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC), RSPCA Cymru, Redwings and The Donkey Sanctuary. Collectively, the AWNW works together with the shared aim of improving welfare standards for animals across the country.
FUW Senior Policy Officer Dr Hazel Wright, said: “Dog attacks on livestock continue to plague our membership and represent a significant welfare issue in affected flocks. It is hoped that these distinctive signs will encourage and remind dog owners to be respectful of livestock when out in the countryside.”
The importance of educating members of the public was highlighted during the Animals, Land and You’ flagship event where issues such as livestock worrying, littering and gates being left open were amongst the main problems raised by those living and working in the countryside. Over one quarter of those surveyed at the event had been directly affected by livestock worrying on their own farm.
“The FUW continues to encourage dogs to be kept on leads near livestock and for dog owners to take dog waste home in order to avoid spreading diseases to livestock. The Union hopes that this important link with stakeholders on the AWNW will help the FUW’s messages reach even more members of the public and we look forward to working with members of the network on this and other relevant health and welfare initiatives,” added Dr Wright.