There is a well-known saying in farming, “Where there is livestock, there is deadstock," and it is important to remember. Whether you are a smallholder like me with a small range of animals, a sheep farmer with thousands of sheep, or a dairy farmer with dozens of cows, losing any animal is devastating.

Animal welfare should be paramount for everyone who keeps an animal, whether as a pet, as a hobby, or in commercial farming. Whilst we all marvel at the tiny lambs bouncing around the fields, heralding the start of the lambing season, few of us see the heartache that comes with this busy time in the farmers’ diary.

Losing an animal, any animal, is devastating. However, it is the price we pay for enjoying everything they offer, such as companionship, loyalty, entertainment, and, for farmers, an income.

Losing a dog turns our world upside down. Our house feels empty and our hearts heavy. You sometimes wonder how you will ever feel happy again. After losing our border terrier, Bruce, at 16 over four years ago, I was distraught. Despite having three other dogs, Bruce had been by our side for years, through our children growing up, moving houses, and building businesses. Our little terrier had been a constant.

It was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make, but seeing him in pain, struggling to do the simple things that once made him happy, I knew the time was right. To love him was to set him free. I think about him all the time. Sometimes I see his traits in the other two border terriers we have, but they will never take his place, and I would never want them to. They are special in the same way Bruce was, and I know that when the time comes, I will be devastated all over again when I have to say goodbye.

People assume that our feelings for outdoor animals are different from those we have for cats and dogs. Whilst we don’t spend as much time with sheep, pigs, horses and goats, it doesn’t mean they aren’t loved or don’t have a special place in our hearts. As a smallholder, I keep all my animals as pets. Why should a pig be any less loved than a dog or a cat? Why should we consider a sheep any less important than a family pet? Of course, farmers have to weigh the cost of vet bills against the value of the animal. They are, after all, trying to make a living, but this doesn’t mean they care any less or that they don’t feel the pain when an animal is suffering.

It pains me to hear stories of animal cruelty, and it says a lot about a person who doesn’t care whether an animal is suffering. Animals give us so much and ask for nothing in return. Looking after an animal, be it a traditional pet or a farm animal, can be therapeutic and healing. Animals are loving, understanding and loyal, and if treated with compassion and care, they will be lifelong friends.

Nursing a poorly sheep

George and Flynn

You can find Allison on Instagram countryliving_writer or visit her website here