The National Sheep Association wants to hear farmers’ experiences of sheep worrying by dogs. It has created a survey in a bid to increase information about the issue. The results will be used to highlight to the general public the need to keep proper control of dogs around livestock.

Visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/sheepworrying.

NSA chief executive Phil Stocker said: “Sheep worrying by dogs is an issue NSA has been vocal about for some time. We continue to receive reports of attacks on sheep by dogs but we need evidence and information from around the UK to gain attention for the issue and to get dog walkers to take it seriously. That is why we are running the survey and urge all sheep farmers to participate.

“We do not want to discourage people from enjoying our beautiful countryside but feel that if everyone is aware of their responsibilities as well as their rights, rural areas can be used by farmers and the public harmoniously. NSA will continue to do what we can to encourage the non-farming community to take responsibility and control dogs around livestock.”

The survey closes on March 31.