Police in Cambridgeshire have issued an urgent and stark warning to all dog owners and walkers following a horrific incident in which four alpacas were mauled to death by two dogs on a farm. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday morning near the village of Wisbech St Mary, has prompted a forceful reminder from authorities about the legal obligations and severe consequences of failing to control pets near livestock.
Distressing Farm Attack Leaves Alpacas Dead and Injured
The violent mauling unfolded when two dogs, reported to be Rottweilers, entered the farm and attacked the alpacas. In addition to the four fatalities, two other alpacas sustained serious facial injuries that required immediate emergency veterinary attention. Police officers swiftly seized the two dogs involved, and an investigation into the incident of attacking and worrying livestock is currently ongoing.
Legal Changes and Increased Protection for Livestock
This tragic event comes just one month after alpacas and llamas were officially added to the list of protected livestock under UK law, reflecting their growing presence on British farms. The Dogs Protection of Livestock Amendment Act 2025, introduced last month, now includes these animals in its definition, making attacks on them a criminal offence.
Sergeant Tom Nuttall, from the Cambridgeshire Constabulary's Rural Crime Action Team, expressed the gravity of the situation. "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," he stated. "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."
Rising Trend of Dog Attacks on Farm Animals
The alarming incident is part of a broader and concerning trend across the country. According to recent figures from NFU Mutual, dog attacks on livestock continue to rise, with incidents costing an estimated £1.95 million in 2025 alone, representing a 10% increase from the previous year. Sheep and lambs remain the most commonly attacked animals, with one single recorded incident last year resulting in the death of 44 sheep by a dog.
Essential Advice for Dog Walkers in Rural Areas
In response to the attack, police have reinforced critical advice for anyone walking dogs in the countryside to prevent similar tragedies:
- Always keep dogs on a lead near livestock, even if they are well-trained and obedient.
- Observe all local signage and seasonal rules, such as mandatory leads on open access land between March 1 and July 31.
- Ensure that fencing and gates are secure to prevent dogs from escaping into fields with animals.
- Maintain constant awareness of your surroundings and only allow dogs off the lead in areas completely free of livestock.
- If your dog is involved in any incident with livestock, call 101 immediately to report it.
Sergeant Nuttall emphasised the importance of these measures, stating, "I would like to remind dog owners to ensure their animals are kept secure and on a lead in the rural areas of our county in a bid to keep all animals safe." He also warned that individuals who frighten or injure farm animals could face prosecution and end up in court.
Reporting Incidents and Community Responsibility
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any instances of livestock worrying. Witnesses can contact police on 101 to report such incidents, or dial 999 if the attack is currently in progress. This collective responsibility is crucial in safeguarding farm animals and upholding the law, especially as rural communities grapple with the emotional and financial impacts of these attacks.
The tragic loss of the four alpacas in Cambridgeshire serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from a moment of negligence. As dog ownership and rural recreation continue to intersect, adherence to these guidelines is not just a matter of legal compliance but a fundamental aspect of animal welfare and community safety.
