Wiltshire Police urges dog owners to keep pets on leads to protect wildlife and livestock

Wiltshire Police and the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust are reminding dog owners to act responsibly when visiting the countryside this summer by keeping their dogs under control and on leads in sensitive areas.

The appeal comes as dog ownership has increased significantly since the pandemic, bringing more visitors to nature reserves, farmland and rural footpaths across Wiltshire.

Police say they continue to receive reports of dogs chasing or attacking sheep, disturbing nesting birds and damaging protected habitats. Many of these incidents are believed to go unreported.

Rural Crime Officer PC Simon Gomm said even well-trained dogs can act on their natural instincts, causing serious harm to livestock and wildlife.

He warned that attacks can leave animals with severe injuries, with some having to be euthanised despite efforts by volunteers to rescue them.

Police have also received reports of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers being verbally abused after asking dog walkers to put their pets on leads.

PC Gomm described this behaviour as unacceptable, adding that those working to protect Wiltshire's countryside should be treated with respect.

Leo Henley Lock, Director of Conservation and Land Management at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, said the county's nature reserves are among the few remaining places where wildlife can thrive.

He urged visitors to keep dogs on leads, explaining that even friendly pets can unintentionally disturb wildlife or harm livestock if allowed to roam freely.

The Wildlife Trust and Wiltshire Police say responsible dog ownership is a simple but important way to help protect vulnerable species, preserve habitats and ensure everyone can continue to enjoy Wiltshire's countryside safely.

Dog owners are encouraged to follow local signage, keep their pets under close control and respect staff, volunteers and other countryside users when visiting rural areas this summer.