Torridge District Council is reminding dog walkers to take extra care after several recent incidents where uncontrolled dogs have disturbed wildlife and worried sheep on Northam Burrows. To help raise awareness, new signs, part‑funded by the Northam Burrows Charity, have been installed throughout the park.
Northam Burrows is a historic grazing common with livestock present year-round. Residents of the ancient manor of Northam have exercised grazing rights here for centuries, and the land continues to support a large flock of sheep alongside a small number of horses.
While dog walkers are welcome on the Burrows, the Ranger Team is urging owners to remain vigilant and keep their pets under close control near livestock, particularly during this sensitive season. Stress caused by dogs can lead to miscarriages in ewes, and lambs are especially vulnerable to attacks. Therefore, although responsible behaviour is essential all year-round, heightened care is needed to protect grazing animals and ensure the Burrows remains a safe and shared space for all.
Councillor Lyndon Piper, Lead Member for Leisure, said: “It is essential that dogs are kept under close control on the Burrows to prevent disturbance to both wildlife and grazing animals. In recent years, the introduction of signage, information leaflets, and other awareness‑raising measures has helped to significantly reduce the number of incidents. With lambing season in full swing, I would like to remind all dog walkers to continue acting responsibly and to take extra care when visiting the Burrows.”
A new law has also been recently brought in, providing stronger protection for livestock against dog attacks. The maximum penalty has increased from £1000 to an unlimited fine and police have been given powers to detain dogs believed to pose an ongoing threat to livestock. Anyone who witnesses an incident can report it to the police on 101.
