The Benefits of Livestock Guardian Animals in Wild Dog and Dingo Control

Producers increasingly face challenges that pose threats to livestock management and farm biosecurity. Among these threats, wild dogs and dingoes are notorious for preying on sheep, goats, and calves, leading to significant economic losses.

To explore innovative solutions to these challenges, stakeholders gathered in Canberra in November 2024 for the inaugural National Livestock Guardian Animal Forum. This event, hosted by the National Wild Dog Action Plan with funding from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Parks Australian Capital Territory, served as a vital platform for discussing the role of livestock guardian animals in managing the impacts of these predators.

Understanding Livestock Guardian Animals

Livestock guardian animals, such as Maremma dogs and donkeys, have long been employed to protect livestock from predation. These animals form strong bonds with their flocks and exhibit natural protective behaviours, deterring potential threats with their presence. As the agricultural landscape evolves, the need for effective predator management strategies, including the use of livestock guardian animals, has become increasingly apparent.

Insights from the Forum

Greg Mifsud, National Wild Dog Management Coordinator from the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, highlighted the Forum’s significance in fostering a collaborative dialogue among landholders, researchers, veterinarians, and government representatives. “This Forum has been an invaluable opportunity to exchange ideas, experiences, and expertise in the use of guardian animals as tools to manage the effects of wild dog and dingo populations,” said Mr. Mifsud.

Participants shared diverse experiences with livestock guardian animals, revealing that while these animals can significantly reduce predation, they are not infallible. “A key takeaway for me was that guardian animals are not a panacea,” noted Mifsud. He emphasised the importance of integrating livestock guardian animals into a broader wild dog and dingo control program, which may also need to include fencing and lethal control measures.

The Role of Collaboration

Erin Williams, Founder of Livestock Guardian Dogs Australia, praised the collaborative spirit of the Forum. “I felt that this Forum was groundbreaking in bringing esteemed stakeholders together for the first time, despite their differing views and approaches,” she remarked. Williams underscored the necessity of providing science-based education on the effective use of livestock guardian animals to combat misinformation and improve outcomes.

Julie Brown, a livestock producer and veterinarian who employs guardian dogs on her family’s property echoed this sentiment. “It was great to work with other livestock producers, members of government, and researchers who work in predator management,” Dr. Brown stated. She emphasised the complexity of predator control in extensive grazing situations, noting that livestock guardian animals are most effective when their use is part of a comprehensive management strategy.

Enhancing Farm Biosecurity and the benefits of livestock guardian animals

Integrating livestock guardian animals into livestock management plays a critical role in enhancing farm biosecurity. The benefits include:

1. Effective Predator Deterrence: livestock guardian animals are proven to decrease the frequency of wild dog and dingo attacks, thereby protecting livestock and safeguarding producer investments.
2. Stress Reduction: the protective presence of livestock guardian animals allows livestock to graze more freely without the constant stress of predator threats, promoting better welfare and productivity. Livestock that feel safe are healthier and exhibit improved productivity, which is beneficial for overall farm performance.
3. Reduction of Livestock Losses: by preventing predation, livestock guardian animals help to significantly reduce livestock losses. This not only safeguards producer investments but also contributes to the sustainability of agricultural operations.
4. Promoting Biodiversity: by reducing the dependence on lethal control methods, livestock guardian animals contribute to maintaining the ecological balance. They allow for the coexistence of wildlife and livestock, promoting biodiversity which is essential for long-term agricultural success.
5. Cost-Effectiveness: while there is an initial investment in acquiring and training livestock guardian animals, the long-term cost savings from reduced livestock losses and decreased need for veterinary care and replacements can make them a financially viable option for producers.

Conclusion

The inaugural National Livestock Guardian Animal Forum provided the opportunity for a vital conversation around the role of livestock guardian animals in managing wild dog and dingo impacts across Australia. As stakeholders unite to share knowledge and strategies, the potential to improve livestock protection and enhance farm biosecurity becomes increasingly tangible. By leveraging the strengths of livestock guardian animals, the agricultural community can work towards a more sustainable and secure future.

For more information about wild dog control in Australia, visit the National Wild Dog Action Plan website.

Source for quotes; National forum puts spotlight on livestock guardian animals in wild dog and dingo control – National Wild Dog Action Plan