Chichester Police urge residents to be vigilant with their dogs - and look after other animals

Chichester Police have warned residents about looking after our own pets as well as farm animals and wild foxes.

The local police are concerned about the vast number of dog thefts that have been flagged in the area.

The force encourages potential witnesses to get in touch, should they see anything suspicious or odd. They recommend residents to provide the police with information, if they manage to spot a vehicle involved. 

Officers have also informed an increase in loose dogs attacking livestock, mostly sheep or lambs.  They urge dogs owners to be mindful of the surroundings and keep the animals on a lead, if around livestock.

It comes farmers have rights to protect their animals from being hurt. 

The RSPCA said: "If your dog worries livestock you may end up being sued for compensation and, in some circumstances, farmers are legally entitled to shoot dogs if they are endangering their sheep.

"As a last resort, a farmer is legally allowed to shoot a dog who is threatening their animals."

A survey behind the #DogKind report, carried out by the RSPCA, revealed 24% of the owners polled had dogs who have worried livestock, wildlife and other animals. 29% of them sought help for this behaviour, whilst 37% didn't view it as a problem.

Finally, officers have also stressed the issue of poisoned foxes. They have reminded that such an act is illegal and can entail law enforcement actions.

The government Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme investigates the deaths of wildlife, pets and beneficial invertebrates that might have resulted from pesticide poisoning.

Anyone who has reason to believe that a pesticide poisoning has taken place or might occur should contact the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme Hotline on 0800 321 600.

Anyone noticing suspicious behaviours in rural areas is also encouraged to call 101/online for non-emergencies, or 999 in case of urgency.

People could also get in touch via emailing the Rural Crime Team at RuralCrime.Team@sussex.pnn.police.uk.

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