Irresponsible dog owners

[Leo]

I don't make a point of interviewing sheep for their opinions, nor have I spoken to that unfortunate woman.

So talk to a sheep farmer, they'll tell you the presence of an unfamiliar dog when their chasing instincts kick in, and especially during lambing season is a source of stress for the animals, sufficient in some cases to lead to the loss of the lamb. Why is it some consider it acceptable that people should be entitled to enter their land without having a little respect? It's not like they'd be too happy if strangers turned up on their doorstep allowing their dogs to do as they please on their property.

The owners of the majority of dogs who worry sheep or attack people would have considered them well trained and obedient until it's too late.

 

[mathepac]

It all sounds like the behaviour of irresponsible dog owners to me but again, why should the dogs pay the ultimate price?

What about an annual Mutt Owners' Test, MOT, to prove that at licensing time, owners and dogs behave in such a way as to be safe to be out in public together? Proper dog retraints, leads, muzzles, proper ID tags, (FIDO registrations), chipping, etc, and behavioural testing with specialist dog trainers.

Killing animals be they domestic companion dogs, wild badgers, seagulls, foxes, or deer is not the appropriate answer in a civilised society.