A farmer from WA suffered losses due to dog attacks on livestock

A farmer named Cluett reported the death of about 80 sheep over the past five months as a result of livestock animal attacks. The most severe incident occurred in May, when 40 lambs and 10 ewes died, causing the lambing rates in this group to drop by 40 percent. Based on the nature of the injuries to the affected livestock, the owner suspects that domestic dogs are involved, although the exact breed could not be determined. He tried to pursue the animal himself, but was in a different pen and could not catch up with it.

The incidents also affected neighboring farms, where emus and a young alpaca near Porongurup Village were harmed. The attacks caused stress to the livestock: the sheep moved about a kilometer away from their usual grazing area, some ewes abandoned their lambs, and pregnant animals lost their offspring due to stress. Similar cases were also recorded in Katanning, located approximately 280 km southeast of Perth. Katanning Saleyard manager Rod Bushell noted that such incidents happen about once or twice a year, but are usually quickly halted thanks to the work of rangers.

Industry representatives note that the problem of domestic dog attacks is relevant for areas where agricultural land borders populated localities. Pet owners often underestimate the risk, believing their pets will cause no harm, yet the latter may try to play with lambs, leading to livestock mortality. While wild dog and dingo attacks require statewide measures, incidents involving domestic animals are more localized in nature.

The Shire of Plantagenet is conducting an investigation to find those responsible. Shire of Plantagenet Chief Executive Officer Garry Bird reported that if the animals are found, it is planned to initiate legal prosecution against their owners and attempt to recover damages for the lost livestock. In turn, farmers are forced to constantly monitor the stock and regularly check the sheep, especially during the lambing period.