My dog killed a sheep – what should I do?

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Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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Hi everyone,

I’m writing this in a complete panic. Two days ago, my Malamute killed a sheep at my neighbour’s place... He’d managed to escape from the house.

I don’t think anyone saw him, but it isn't the first time he’s managed to get out, even though I’ve reinforced the fencing many times.

Firstly, I’m absolutely devastated by what he’s done, especially as I’m a vegetarian and animals mean the world to me. That poor ewe didn’t deserve any of this... But what’s done is done and I can’t turn back the clock.

As for my dog, although he’s never attacked my own animals, I’m now convinced he’s capable of it and I’ll never leave him unsupervised again – it’s out of the question.

But that’s not really why I’m posting here. I’m looking for advice on the law and any possible repercussions for me. First off, I don’t have third-party liability insurance for him; I was planning to get it sorted next month, but at the moment he isn't insured. Even though I don’t think he was seen, I’m scared people might say they’ve seen him wandering before. We live in the countryside, and to my knowledge, he used to roam a bit when he got out... though it had been a good three months since he last escaped.

I’m at a total loss. I don’t know what could happen, if they can take action against him based on just suspicion, or what the consequences might be for me. I really need some guidance.

I’m a student, I don’t work, and I’m still living at home with my parents.

Thanks in advance...

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12 answers
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    • ?
    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    How come two-year-old posts are resurfacing like this?

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    F
    Frederic216 Icon representing the flag French
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    Two years later!!! Talk about perfect timing. I’m sure this advice will be really useful 😁
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    C
    Cathoise Icon representing the flag French
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    I completely agree with Lorna, you really need to step up... The farmer loves his animals just like you love yours, and he’ll be reassured to be dealing with a responsible owner rather than someone shifty and irresponsible. Besides, word gets around quickly in a village. You need to take responsibility and show the sheep owner that you’re going to put some solutions in place. Whatever you do, don’t shy away from it, if only for your own peace of mind...
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    ?
    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Anyway, how did you actually find out your dog had killed a sheep in the first place?
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    ?
    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Yeah, definitely be careful about letting them roam... a dog in my village is in a right mess because of that; he's been reported and there's a petition doing the rounds.

    And a Malamute isn't exactly easy to miss, and they can do some serious damage.

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    Quiz
    Quiz Icon representing the flag French
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    I also agree that you need to take responsibility for your dog and their actions, but above all, you’ve got to make sure it doesn’t happen again. If your dog has got into the habit of wandering off, the neighbours are bound to know about it, even if no one has actually said anything to you yet.
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    Yoyolut Icon representing the flag French
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    Regarding insurance, I’m quoting a pet insurance specialist:

    "* Third-party liability insurance is included in your home insurance policy and covers all members of your household, including your pets. However, it is highly recommended that you notify your insurer of their presence (or the arrival of a new dog or cat) as a matter of course. You should also check the exact level of cover provided.

    "

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    Y
    Yoyolut Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi there,

    I agree, you've got to take responsibility for it; it definitely clears the air and keeps things civil with the neighbours!

    As for your insurer, just give them a ring. In my experience, your dog is usually automatically covered under your public liability insurance. I didn't have to do any paperwork or pay any extra on my premium.

    Good luck!

    Yo

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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    I’m with Lorna on this one. You’ve always got to take responsibility, especially if you live in a village—your neighbour won’t be fooled! Go and see him, apologise a million times, promise him it won’t happen again and ask him what you owe him! That’s just how you handle things when you have a dog or a kid who’s messed up. YOU OWN IT! Above all, make sure it doesn’t happen again because he’s had a taste of the "game" now and he’ll definitely try his luck again! Good luck and keep us posted.

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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Personally, I’d suggest owning up to it, apologising profusely, and paying him back. That way, the guy will be less likely to hold a grudge and take a shot at your dog or leave out poisoned bait if it ever happens again.
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