Public Release: 1-Feb-2016 Two thirds of cattle attacks on people involve dogs, new study finds University of Liverpool

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-02/uol-tto020116.php

Public Release: 1-Feb-2016
Two thirds of cattle attacks on people involve dogs, new study finds
University of Liverpool

Dog owners are being urged to remember to be vigilant with their pets when walking near cows in the countryside, following a new review into cattle attacks by the University of Liverpool.

•••••

A total of 54 cattle attacks were reported in the UK media between 1993 and 2013 and, of these, approximately one in four were fatal and two-thirds involved dogs.

Dr Carri Westgarth, a dog behaviour expert at the University's Institute of Infection and Global Health, said: "We found that walking with dogs among cows, particularly with calves present, was a common factor for an attack.

"One theory for this is that the cows may feel particularly threatened by dogs, especially if they have young to protect. People then try to protect their dogs, which can lead to a tragic incident occurring."

•••••