Police have issued a crucial reminder to individuals walking their dogs to ensure that their pets are properly controlled following a tragic incident where four alpacas were fatally attacked on a farm. The distressing event took place near Wisbech St Mary village in Cambridgeshire on Tuesday morning, involving two dogs that killed four alpacas and caused facial injuries to two others, requiring immediate veterinary care. The authorities have seized the two dogs, identified as Rottweilers, and are conducting an investigation into the attack on livestock.
Law enforcement officials are urging countryside visitors to keep their dogs on a leash to avoid potential legal consequences if their animals cause harm or distress to farm animals. Alpacas and llamas were recently categorized as protected livestock, reflecting their growing presence on British farms. Sergeant Tom Nuttall from the Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT) expressed the gravity of the incident and thanked the affected parties for their cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
Livestock worrying is now considered a criminal offense under UK law, with llamas and alpacas included in the livestock protection framework following the Dogs Protection of Livestock Amendment Act 2025 introduced last month. Dog owners are reminded to secure their pets and keep them leashed in rural areas to ensure the safety of all animals.
The rise in dog attacks on livestock has become a concerning trend, with incidents costing an estimated £1.95 million in 2025, marking a 10% increase from the previous year according to NFU Mutual data. Sheep and lambs are frequently targeted, with a notable case from last year where 44 sheep were killed in a single dog attack.
Police have shared guidance for dog walkers venturing into the countryside, encouraging individuals to report any instances of livestock being worried by calling 101 or 999 in case of an ongoing incident.
