9th October 2024
Dog owners have been asked to clean after their pets following an incident where cattle fell ill due to ingesting dog poo.
Officers from Dorchester Police said that while on patrol they had been informed of a farmer whose cattle had become poorly after ingesting dog faeces.
Dog poo can be seriously harmful to livestock due to toxins and parasites, which can ultimately lead to the animal having to be put to sleep.
The officers added: “This had NOT been picked up by its owner and was in the grass the cattle were eating.
“This is not only distressing to the animal and farmer, it is also costly.
“Dog poo can also be very dangerous to humans, especially children, so please be a responsible dog owner, keep your dog in sight at all times, and pick up after it has done a poo.”
READ MORE: Dog owners warned to watch over their pets following rise in attacks on sheep
Dogs can also be in danger if exposed to Neosporosis. They can become infected with Neospora after eating the afterbirth of an infected cow, and the eggs shed in their faeces.
Symptoms of Neosporosis can include difficulty in breathing, muscle atrophy, paralysis, swallowing problems, and in severe cases, can be fatal.
READ MORE: Farmers warned to watch for outdoor hazards and protect their dogs
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