Key facts
- A Devon farmer received a letter from the RSPCA concerning "sheep worrying".
- The farmer was moving his flock of sheep from one field to another using his dog.
- Some sheep broke free and ended up on a road during the herding process.
- The RSPCA stated it investigates all animal welfare complaints.
- The farmer believes the complaint was due to a lack of understanding of rural practices.
Tom Trueman, a 42-year-old farmer from near Buckfastleigh in Devon, has shared his confusion after being contacted by the RSPCA for "sheep worrying." The incident occurred in May when Trueman was moving his flock across a yard, and some sheep subsequently broke free and ended up on a road. He explained that he sent his dog, a black and white collie, to round them up. Approximately two weeks later, he received a letter from the RSPCA. Trueman believes the complaint may have arisen because the dog was rounding up sheep without him immediately beside it, which could be misinterpreted by someone unfamiliar with farming practices. He stated that the RSPCA, after he explained the situation, indicated there was "no need to worry." Trueman suggested that a "definite gap" exists between rural and urban life, leading to misunderstandings about a farmer's work. He urged anyone witnessing a potential sheep worrying incident to first ascertain the situation before reporting it, noting that his presence with the dog should have made it obvious it was a herding activity. The RSPCA commented that it is "so grateful" to those who report suspected animal suffering and that it "will always look into and, if necessary, investigate" complaints. They added that many issues are resolved through advice and education, and this information is not always publicised for legal reasons.