Sheep drown after dogs drive them into lough

Sheep drown after dogs drive them into lough

16 March 2016

AN appeal has been issued for dog owners to keep control of their animals after 11 sheep were chased into Strangford Lough and drowned.

The sheep, which were part of a 25-strong flock believed to have been grazing on Green Island and Salt Island, washed ashore in Portaferry at high tide last Friday. The animals belonged to a Ballynahinch farmer who lost a number of sheep near his farm in deep snow three years ago.

Portaferry Coastguard station officer John Austin said dead sheep have also washed up recently on the shores of Strangford Lough near Mount Stewart and close to Portaferry.

“During the most recent incident the sheep were chased into the water and because they can’t swim they drowned.” he explained. “Sheep are easily frightened and whether it was one dog or more involved I am not sure.”

In the wake of last week’s incident, Mr Austin has appealed to dog owners to keep a tight rein on their animals, explaining that at low tide, a dog could have walked on to either of the two islands on Strangford Lough where sheep can be regularly seen grazing.

“People need to look after their dogs. The farmer who lost his sheep in last week’s incident is understandably pretty upset. He lost sheep in heavy snow a number of years ago and what happened recently is a big blow for him.

“It is vital dog owners keep an eye on their pets at all times and ensure they are under control. Dogs will attack sheep and people need to be wary of this,” John continued.

The Coastguard member said by the time dog owners react to their pet attacking sheep it can be too late with the damage already done.

Mr Austin added: ‘When the sheep were frightened last week they simply ran into the water and drowned. It is important dog owners keep their animals under control.”

Rowallane councillor and Saintfield farmer Robert Burgess, whose flocks have been targeted by roaming dogs in the past, has echoed Mr Austin’s appeal to owners to look after their pets.

He added: “People are unaware of the major financial loss farmers suffer as a result of their livestock being attacked by dogs. The vast majority of dog owners are responsible but there are a few renegades who allow their pets to roam free close to agricultural land and simply don’t care if sheep are killed.

“We are in the middle of the lambing season and my thoughts are with the farmer who experienced what was quite a significant loss. Dog owners must be more responsible and this message cannot be reinforced enough.”