Wisbech St Mary, Cambridgeshire – Police are reminding dog owners to keep pets under control following a fatal attack on alpacas at a Fenland farm.
Officers from the Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT) were called to a farm just after 6.30am on Tuesday, 24 March, after reports that two dogs were attacking livestock. The attack resulted in four alpacas dead and two more sustaining serious facial injuries that required immediate veterinary attention.
The two dogs involved were seized by police, and an investigation into attacking and worrying livestock is ongoing.
Sergeant Tom Nuttall from RCAT said:
“This was an extremely distressing incident for all involved, and I would like to thank the victim and the dog owner for continuing to be cooperative with our investigation.
“Livestock worrying is a criminal offence under UK law. Following the introduction of the Dogs Protection of Livestock Amendment Act 2025 last month, llamas and alpacas are now included in the definition of livestock.
“I would like to remind dog owners to ensure their animals are kept secure and on a lead in rural areas to keep all animals safe.”
Police advise that livestock worrying incidents can be reported by calling 101 or via the Cambridgeshire Constabulary website. In emergencies, dial 999.
Advice for Dog Owners:
- Keep dogs on a lead near livestock, even if well-trained.
- Observe local signage and seasonal rules, such as mandatory leads on open access land between 1 March and 31 July.
- Ensure fencing and gates are secure to prevent dogs from escaping.
- Only allow dogs off lead in areas free of livestock.
- Report any incident immediately by calling 101.
Advice for Farmers and Landowners:
- Install clear signage to remind walkers of legal requirements.
- Position troughs away from public paths.
- Maintain fencing and consider deterrents like electric fencing.
- Use CCTV or trail cameras to deter and record evidence.
- Photograph injuries and cover carcasses to preserve DNA evidence.
