Government to consult on changes to legislation
The owners of dogs which attack livestock could face tougher fines, as the Manx government considers strengthening its laws.
A public consultation is underway following recent changes to legislation in the UK.
Owners in England and Wales now face unlimited fines if their dog attacks livestock on farmland or surrounding footpaths and roads. Police powers have also been expanded, giving officers the option to seize dogs, take DNA samples and apply for warrants.
Government says there's evidence that tougher penalties do work as a deterrent, with incidents dropping significantly after Scotland boosted its legislation in 2021.
Under Manx law, dog owners can be fined up to £1,000 if their pet is found worrying livestock while straying, or not under control, on farmland but the current legislation does not mention livestock attacks.
Recent surveys by the Manx National Farmers' Union show between 50 to 80 percent of farmers on the Island have been affected every year since 2022, with one farmer in the south of the Island reporting how ten of his sheep and lambs were killed in a single incident.
DEFA Minister Clare Barber says: "Most dog owners act responsibly, but livestock worrying, especially during lambing, can have devastating impacts."
You can find a link to the survey HERE.
A spokesperson for the Isle of Man Constabulary added: “Dog owners should always keep their animals under control, particularly around livestock. These incidents are preventable, and where offences occur, we will take appropriate action.”
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