New DNA test could identify dogs involved in livestock attacks

A new trial of forensic technology could help identify dogs involved in livestock attacks.

Ten police forces from across England and Wales are involved and hope the research project will improve the collection of DNA from offending dogs from attacked livestock.

Around £360,000 worth of farm animals were seriously injured or killed by dogs in the South West in 2023, according to figures from the National Farmers Union Mutual.

PC Julian Fry of Devon and Cornwall Police's rural affairs team said “the figures are incredibly high”.

The research project is led by Liverpool John Moores University.

NFU Mutual said the region saw the highest number of livestock attacks in England in 2023.

“We don't want to be number one on that list,” Mr Fry said.

“We need to appeal to the wider community to help us by effectively reporting any livestock incidents that cause them concern.”

Dartmoor livestock protection officer Karla McKechnie said there had been 60 incidents of dog attacks on the moor this year.

There were 95 recorded attacks in 2023 and Ms McKechnie said some of these incidents involved more than one animal.

Bodmin Moor's livestock protection officer said 46 animals were killed and 44 injured in attacks last year.

More than 45 ewes and lambs were killed in one night earlier this yearon a farm near Lamerton in West Devon.

Farmer Christopher Dawe said he found dead and injured lambs and ewes spread across four fields.

“It was heartbreaking,” he said.

Dr Nick Dawnay of Liverpool John Moores University developed the first evidence kits for DNA testing.

He said they will allow police, veterinarians and farmers to quickly take samples from dogs at the scene of an attack.

Farmers, police and key industry representatives will be trained in the use of the new forensic kits in June.