What new livestock protection laws mean for Kent's wildlife

What's changed? 

The updated law introduces unlimited fines for livestock worrying, replacing the previous £1,000 cap. Crucially, it now applies everywhere – including public footpaths and rights of way that cross our reserves. 

Police also have enhanced powers to investigate incidents, helping to ensure that harm to grazing animals is taken seriously and dealt with appropriately. 

Why stress matters  

Livestock worrying isn’t always obvious. Physical contact isn't always necessary for an offence to occur – chasing, running at or simply causing fear and panic all have serious consequences. Even a dog that is loose among grazing animals without being under proper control can constitute an offence. 

Stress can lead to injury, miscarriage or long-term fear responses that affect their welfare and their ability to carry out conservation grazing effectively – with knock-on impacts for the habitats they help maintain. 

Take control, make a difference  

The legislation makes clear that dogs must always be under control when near livestock. This means being able to prevent your dog from approaching grazing animals before any incident occurs – not calling them back once they’ve already chased or disturbed them.

On our reserves, we ask all visitors to keep dogs on short leads near grazing animals. This simple action protects both the livestock and your dog and supports the conservation work members like you help make possible. 

Working together 

These legislative changes reflect growing recognition of the harm caused by livestock worrying. As we welcome spring visitors to our nature reserves, we’re grateful to members for setting an example and helping to look after the animals that work to create havens for Kent's wildlife.