AS the autumn colours attract people to the countryside, the National Farmers Union (NFU) is reminding dog walkers to take extra care and avoid situations where pets could scare or harm farm animals, especially sheep.

Autumn is the time when female sheep (ewes) become pregnant and they can lose their lambs when chased by dogs.

Sadly, attacks by dogs on sheep are all too common and sheep can die the most terrible deaths when bitten by dogs.

Hampshire & Surrey NFU adviser Sandra Nichols said: “Please avoid potential problems and #takethelead. Keep your dog under close control and on a lead around farm animals. Don’t be tempted to let your pet run freely in open fields as there may be sheep around the corner.

“Even the best behaved dogs have a chase instinct and dogs can inflict the most terrible injuries on sheep which often result in death.”

If a dog bites livestock, the dog owner or the person responsible for the animal at the time is guilty of an offence and may be sued for compensation by the farmer.

Ms Nichols adds: “The law allows farmers to shoot dogs that are threatening livestock. Don’t put your pet in danger, keep it on a lead and under control at all times. Dog attacks on sheep should be avoided at all costs.”

Owners should also check that properties are dog-proof, to prevent dogs roaming freely.

The NFU has issued the following advice to owners when walking their dogs in the countryside: keep your dog on a lead near sheep and cattle; bag and bin poo; follow paths and observe signs; only release your dog if chased by cattle; and ensure your dog doesn’t wander off paths.

The NFU reminds people that Ordnance Survey maps show public footpaths, byways and wider access, and can be accessed via phone apps, GPS systems or online at ordnancesurvey.co.uk.

Walkers should also follow The Countryside Code, which can be found at gov.uk/government/publications.