Police have issued a crucial reminder to individuals walking their dogs to ensure they have control over their pets following a tragic incident where four alpacas were viciously attacked and killed on a farm. The distressing event took place near Wisbech St Mary in Cambridgeshire, where two dogs, believed to be Rottweilers, carried out the attack on the alpacas, leaving two others injured with facial wounds that required immediate veterinary care. The authorities have taken custody of the dogs responsible, and an investigation into the incident is currently underway to determine the implications of attacking and causing distress to livestock.
Law enforcement officials are emphasizing the importance of keeping dogs on a leash while visiting rural areas and cautioning that individuals may face legal consequences if their dogs harm or scare farm animals. Alpacas and llamas were recently added to the list of safeguarded livestock, acknowledging their growing presence on British farms. Sergeant Tom Nuttall from the Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT) expressed the gravity of the situation, thanking the victim and the dog owner for their cooperation in the investigation.
Livestock worrying is considered a criminal offense in the UK, and with the Dogs Protection of Livestock Amendment Act 2025 now including llamas and alpacas in the definition of livestock, dog owners are reminded to secure their animals and keep them leashed in rural areas to ensure the safety of all animals. This incident is part of a worrying trend of increasing dog attacks on livestock, with reported incidents in 2025 costing an estimated £1.95 million, marking a 10% rise from the previous year. Sheep and lambs are the most commonly targeted animals, with a single incident from the previous year resulting in the deaths of 44 sheep due to a dog attack.
In light of these events, the police have issued guidance for dog walkers venturing into the countryside, urging anyone witnessing livestock being harassed to report it by dialing 101, or 999 if the incident is ongoing.
