Local politicians, Rachael Hamilton MSP and Cllr Scott Hamilton met with local farmers, John and Ann Lamb to discuss livestock worrying concerns.
Mr and Mrs Lamb were recent victims of a rogue dog that attacked their pregnant sheep and left them heavily injured.
The ewe's face was mauled so badly that she has been left with long term injuries and struggles to eat. It is likely that she will eventually have to be euthanised.
Livestock worrying is a increasing concern in rural areas with number of attacks thought to be increasing.
Rachael Hamilton has pledged her support to NFU Scotland’s ‘Take the Lead’ campaign to protect livestock from dog attacks.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
‘Livestock worrying is a real concern in the Scottish Borders and can have devastating consequences to both the animals and farmers livelihoods.
‘The number of incidences is thought to be increasing and now in peak lambing season livestock are more at risk than ever. There needs to be a review of the code of access to see if any changes would help the situation.
‘I urge all dog walkers to take precaution and put their dog on a lead. We all want to enjoy our beautiful countryside and to do that we have to be respectful of it.’
NFU Scotland Regional Chairman for Lothian and Borders, Kelvin Pate said.
‘Recent attacks by dogs, like that experienced by the Lamb family recently, have demonstrated the sheer devastation that is caused by out of control dogs.
‘Local authorities are responsible for upholding access rights under the 2003 Act, but NFUS is not convinced that this is translating into the assistance that is required for farmers where things go wrong.’
Cllr Scott Hamilton said:
‘It is a very terrifying and worrying incident when this happens in our countryside and unfortunately this is becoming a frequent occurrence.
‘The Borders and in particular Jedburgh & District are rural areas where we rely heavily on responsible dog owners to do their bit. As a farmer myself at Palacehill, Ancrum it is a worry for us all and a clear indication that things have to change.’