Dog attacks on sheep in Uruguay, geographical distribution and estimation of economic losses (2018-2019)

Abstract

The predation of sheep by dogs is a concern for producers as it causes injuries, mortality, and economic losses. The distribution of attacks depends on the number of prey, the presence of predators, and the available anti-predator mechanisms. Understanding the dynamics of attacks and estimating associated losses is essential for making informed decisions. The objective of this study was to characterize reports of dog attacks on sheep and estimate economic losses in Uruguay. Based on reports of dog attacks on livestock centralized by INBA in 2018 and 2019, the geographical distribution of attacks and the number of affected animals were analyzed. Economic losses were calculated assuming the death of the sheep and expressed according to the number of producers, rural inhabitants, and the sheep and dog populations. Losses were also projected considering underreporting, as reports represent only a small proportion of actual attacks. In total, 811 reports involving 7,163 sheep were recorded, with an average of fewer than ten sheep predated per attack and an approximate value of USD 540. Projecting underreporting to the level of potential attacks, an economic loss of USD 10,197,000 was estimated between 2018 and 2019. The territorial distribution of reports and predated sheep is heterogeneous, with the departments of Lavalleja and Paysandú showing a high number of reports and sheep affected per producer. Departments traditionally associated with sheep production, such as Salto, Artigas, and Paysandú, recorded fewer impacts relative to their total sheep population. In summary, the evidence highlights the relevance of this problem for local producers and underscores the importance of promoting reporting and improving data access to optimize decision-making processes.