A new course for puppies and their owners has been launched at Duchy Collge in the hope of reducing the number of dog attacks on livestock in Cornwall.
During their visit to the Stoke Climsand campus the puppies were introduced to sheep, cows, horses and poultry in an attempt to reduce the likelihood of them developing fear or aggression towards other animals.
"Coming into a field to find livestock killed or seriously injured by dogs is one of farmers' worst nightmares," said Tim Price, farming and rural affairs specialist for NFU Mutual, which organised the course.
"As well as causing immense suffering, dog attacks are costing agriculture a fortune, adding to the economic pressures caused by the long wet winter and unseasonably cold start to 2013, which is why we have launched a campaign to help educate dog owners."
The insurance firm estimates that livestock worrying costs the agricultural industry £1 million each year in claims for animals which have been killed or chased by dogs.
"Unfortunately, the true cost is much higher as many farmers simply do not report dog attacks on their livestock," Mr Price said.
In 2012 alone there were 53 reported dog attacks on livestock in the Devon and Cornwall area.
And the number of attacks on horses is also on the up.
Sheila Hardy, senior executive in the safety department at the British Horse Society, said: "Dog attacks on horses are the fastest-growing category of incidents being reported through our horse accidents website and the most common after road accidents.
"This is a worrying trend and we urgently need to educate both dog and horse owners about the problem. The consequences of these incidents can be particularly nasty with serious injuries being caused to both riders and horses. Dogs can also be injured and even killed," she added.
Developed by PC Keith Evans, dog legislation officer for West Midland's Police, the course is aimed to prevent dogs from fearing livestock and horses from an early age.
Sue Tunnicliffe, who attended the course with her 15-week-old puppy, Rosie, said it was very beneficial.
"We both learned a lot. It's given me more confidence about going into the countryside," she said.
Dog owners interested in attending future dog socialisation courses can contact NFU Mutual on 01789 455211 or email pressoffice@nfumutual.co.uk
