Dog walking app aims to reduce sheep worrying incidents

Dog walking app BudApp has been working with the National Sheep Association (NSA) to improve awareness of livestock on dog walking routes.

The app helps users understand when livestock may be present along their chosen route, while providing practical guidance on how to walk safely and responsibly around sheep.

Sheep worrying by dogs remains a significant issue for the UK sheep sector, causing distress, injury and death to livestock.

BudApp has introduced livestock information cards that are automatically displayed on walks where sheep have been identified as present.

In addition, the app enables farmers and other landowners themselves to flag livestock locations and indicate preferred access routes, helping dog walkers make informed decisions while respecting working farmland.

BudApp has also created a dedicated Responsible Dog Walking resource, developed in collaboration with NSA, which provides guidance on countryside access, livestock safety and the responsibilities of dog owners when walking near farm animals.

NSA Chief Executive, Phil Stocker, said: “By working with BudApp, we’re helping to ensure walkers receive practical information exactly when and where they need it.

“Better awareness and understanding can make a real difference in reducing sheep worrying incidents and improving relationships between farmers and countryside users.”

BudApp Founder, Christian Jones, added: “Dog walkers don’t set out to cause harm – most just don’t know livestock are there until it’s too late. By working with NSA, we’re able to give people that information at the point of decision, right inside the app.

“Our goal is to make countryside walks safer, more accessible and more enjoyable for everyone, including the farmers who care for the land and animals that make those walks so special.”  

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