Dr Neil Hudson, the only veterinary MP in the Commons, joined with nationally renowned local Alpaca breeders in their campaign to include more protection for camelids in an upcoming crackdown on livestock worrying.
Paul and Barbara Hetherington are award-winning alpaca breeders, with Paul on the British Alpaca Society board of directors. Based near Ainstable, they have owned their 50-acre Beck Brow Alpacas of Cumbria farm for almost 25 years and currently run a 200 strong herd, with numerous show successes at the highest levels of competition.
The Government has confirmed plans to bring forward new measures to tackle livestock worrying during the remainder of this Parliament. This is expected to include new powers enabling the police to respond to livestock worrying incidents more effectively - making it easier for them to collect evidence and, in the most serious cases, seize and detain dogs to reduce the risk of further incidents.
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee Member, Dr Neil Hudson MP is the only vet elected to the Commons since 1884 and has recently written to DEFRA on behalf of the Hetheringtons to call for species such as alpacas, llamas, and other camelids to be given bolstered protection.
Dr Neil Hudson MP, said:
“A huge thank you to the Hetheringtons for showing me their incredible herd. A standout organisation in the rich tapestry of diverse farms that span Penrith and The Border. It was a real treat as a vet to be given the honours of bottle feeding one of their beautiful crias.
“The Government rightly takes the issue of livestock worrying very seriously. Alongside Ministers, I fully recognise the distress these savage attacks can cause farmers and animals, as well as the financial implications. That is why our Conservative decision-makers are rolling out enhanced new powers for police to enter premises, seize dogs and gather evidence.
“But for farmers and breeders who have diversified their operations to benefit from our world-leading animal welfare laws, we need to bolster the protection of animals such as alpacas. I look forward to hearing back from DEFRA on this important issue.”
