AN appeal has been launched to farmers and livestock owners by Devon and Cornwall Police.

They are asking those involved in the farming or care of livestock to report any incidents of livestock worrying to the police.

Livestock worrying is a criminal offence where a dog attacks, chases, or causes severe fear, stress, or panic to farm animals. Physical contact is not required for an offence to occur; simple pursuit or being loose in a field of sheep constitutes the act.

Devon and Cornwall Police say that if farmers and livestock keepers regularly report any incidents, it helps them to identify potential repeat offenders, build intelligence around problem areas and take action to protect the communities which are affected by livestock worrying.

Specific information that the police are looking for include recordings that include the details of the dog, their owners, the vehicles involved and the locations of the incidents.

They have also urged farmers to retain any CCTV, photographs or visual evidence that is required, but stressed that any reports are made to the police.

A spokesperson said; “Working with the Devon and Cornwall Police Rural Affairs Team , we are encouraging farmers and livestock owners to report all incidents of livestock worrying to police, no matter how minor they may seem.

“Reports help us identify repeat offenders, build intelligence around problem areas, and take action to protect livestock and rural communities.

“If safe to do so, please record details of the dog, owner, vehicles, location, and retain any CCTV, photographs or other evidence, but it is important that incidents are reported to Police.

“Your information is vital in helping us tackle livestock worrying and wider rural crime, and by reporting to Police you are helping us to support your local farming communities.

“Report non-emergencies via 101, or call 999 if the incident is happening at the time.”