DOG owners have been warned to not risk prison or a fine for livestock worrying.

Last year, Dorset Police received 40 reported incidents of dogs attacking livestock. The penalty for this can be six months in prison and a £1,000 fine.

In 11 of these cases the dog owners were identified and dealt with. Punishments have included Dog Behaviour Contracts and compensation was paid to the farmer and a recent court prosecution.

Dorset Police has issued a warning to dog owners to remind them that livestock worrying is a criminal offence: "If you’re out walking the dog this weekend on agricultural land and it worries livestock you are committing the offence of livestock worrying.

"We’re asking dog owners to be responsible when out enjoying our countryside.

"Keep all dogs on a lead around any livestock and remember to always release the lead if chased by cattle and get yourself to safety.

"Worrying is traditionally thought of as a dog biting/attacking livestock but it also means:

"Chasing livestock in such a way as may be reasonably expected to cause injury or suffering; in the case of ewes, this includes abortion or loss or reduction in the number of offspring she has.

"Not having a dog on a lead or under close control when close by, or in a field or enclosure with livestock.

"The penalty for livestock worrying can be six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £1,000."

Remember to call 101 if you see anything suspicious or if you see a dog worrying or attacking livestock please call Dorset Police on 999.

Dorset residents should also be aware that you can have a livestock worrying poster to place around your farm to make people aware of these laws. If you wish to make use of these then please visit the Rural Crime Team website and download a copy here: www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/crime-prevention-help-advice/rural-crime/rural-crime-team/

Dorset Police also has hard backed signs which are made of plastic which are supplied by Cornish Mutual. If you would like some of these for your farm or small holding where you have footpaths crossing farm land please send an email to ruralcrimeteam@dorset.pnn.police.uk with your name and address and the quantity of signs required.