MALVERN Hills Conservators are urging people to take extra care when walking their dogs on the Malvern Hills and nearby commons this spring.

And in collaboration with a local dog trainer, they have arranged training sessions which can teach dogs not to chase livestock.

Spring heralds the start of the lambing season, and the first lambs have already arrived on Castlemorton Common. The Conservators are urging dog walkers to keep their dogs on a lead at all times around livestock.

Beck Baker, community and conservation officer, said: “Every year there are reports from the graziers on the Hills and Commons of dog attacks on sheep. These incidents can be prevented by keeping your dog on a lead when you’re near sheep and cattle”

Earlier this year, four sheep were attacked on Castlemorton Common by a dog off its lead. One sheep had to be put down as a result of the attack and the police were involved.

Sheep worrying, which includes chasing, is a criminal offence and could lead to the destruction of the dog. At this time of year, heavily pregnant ewes can abort following the stress of a chase.

Beck added “The attacks are distressing for the dog owner and devastating for the farmer. The sheep are part of the farmer’s livelihood, the loss of a sheep can be very costly, and vet bills for a ewe can be in excess of £150.”

To help local dog walkers, the Conservators are offering subsidised dog training courses. The aim of the course is to train dogs to ignore livestock and other moving targets.

The fee is subsidised by the Conservators and costs only £30 if participants attend all six classes. Contact Sue Harper, dog trainer and behaviourist, for booking and details on 01684 568067.

You can find out where livestock are by checking the Malvern Gazette each week for Stockwatch, or by visiting the Conservators’ website malvernhills.org.uk.