Dog Waste Disease Threatens Belfast Hills Cattle, Say Conservationists

Conservationists have issued a warning that a disease transmitted through dog feces could lead to severe consequences for cattle grazing near public walking paths in the Belfast hills. This disease, identified as Neospora, has been described as a “silent killer.” Its spread can be readily prevented if dog owners collect and properly dispose of their pets’ waste. The infection results in miscarriages among pregnant cows and permanently impairs their ability to reproduce. Dr. Lizzy Pinkerton of the Belfast Hills Partnership stated that cattle serve as “basically the conservation tool” on the hills, playing a role in vegetation management to foster robust biodiversity. Dr. Pinkerton remarked, “Not everyone is a responsible dog owner.” She added, “People think when they go up into the hills that it doesn’t matter, the dogs can just go anywhere and nature will take care of it.” However, she cautioned, “Unfortunately it carries disease.” She concluded that “For the farmers trying to make a living off the hills, it is devastating.” Andrew McCammond’s herd of 200 suckler cows is one of several that graze throughout the Belfast hills. These cattle contribute to vegetation management, which in turn supports healthy biodiversity. Mr. McCammond stated, “They say Divis Mountain and the hills surrounding it are in good environmental condition.” He further explained, “If it wasn’t grazed and managed with cows, there would be a lot more forage and then once in a while, there would be a massive fire which would have a detrimental effect and do away with this beautiful area.” Annually, the hills draw thousands of visitors and dog-walkers, with the majority diligently adhering to the publicly accessible zones indicated on maps. However, some individuals exhibit less caution. This lack of caution has led to the disease affecting landowners such as Martin Cunningham, a fourth-generation farmer on Divis. He commented, “It’s been very difficult to deal with,” adding, “A loss of an animal is very hard on us both financially and emotionally.” Cunningham further elaborated, “To see our animals suffer is very hard on us and also the financial implication is very hard to get over at a time when farming’s under a lot of pressure.” The hills contribute significantly to environmental protection, featuring peatlands that absorb and store carbon. Public walking routes are available, extending from Slievenacloy to Carnmoney Hill. Dr. Pinkerton stated, “We want everyone to be able to make use of the hills, from the local landowners to the people walking and enjoying them.” She emphasized, “So just by really carefully looking after your dog, making sure that you know if it’s done its business and picking up after it, it’s so simple but will make such a big difference.” Mr. McCammond acknowledged that while collecting dog waste might not be a preferred task, he stressed its necessity for maintaining viable farming operations in the region and safeguarding biodiversity. He asserted, “I take a duty of care to make sure everything is good in this shared space,” and concluded, “The public should take the same.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.