Livestock worrying: the law explained

Legal Guides

Livestock worrying has huge implications for farmers. This business guide seeks to address some of your questions and concerns and gives guidance on how to deal with these distressing incidents.

IMPORTANT: the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 (2025 Act) received Royal Assent on 18 December 2025 and amended the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 (the 1953 Act). It introduced some important changes to the law as of 18 March 2025. This Guide reflects the law as of this date.

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