Take the lead

Cattle farmers are being reminded to take extra care over where their animals are kept as thousands of people are expected to head to the countryside over the Easter break

One farmer revealed they had 44 sheep killed in a single dog attack, while another farmer had 23 sheep killed by a dog

If you plan on bringing your four-legged friend to enjoy the delights of the great British countryside this Easter, here is what NFU Mutual advises you to do

One ewe had to be put to sleep due to the extent of her injuries from the dog attack, while another ewe, which had been carrying twins, also died. Police said the incident could lead to more ewes miscarrying lambs

Derbyshire Constabulary has responded to livestock worrying incidents which led to dogs being shot and sheep being left with 'horrendous' injuries

More needs to be done to raise public awareness, say campaigners

Farmers are encouraged to complete the survey, which can be found on the NSA website .The deadline for the survey is February 21 2025

Dorset Rural Crime Team said the dog owner had done the right thing by coming forward

"Offences of this kind also have a significant impact on farmers, particularly during the lambing season"

Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team said there had been no excuses for the owner not to have had the dog under control