The Saskatchewan government is making livestock protection more affordable for producers with new changes to the Guardian Dog Rebate Program.
Announced Wednesday, the change under the Wildlife Damage Compensation and Prevention Program increases the maximum rebate to $400 per dog from the previous maximum of $100.
If a producer invests in an eligible guardian dog breed to safeguard their livestock, they are eligible for the new $400 amount or the full value of the dog if it is purchased for less than $400. The increase will be retroactive starting April 1, 2024. The change comes after working in consultation with the Saskatchewan Sheep Development Board (SSDB), said a government release.
"Predation is a significant challenge for livestock producers. Guardian dogs are an important tool in reducing predation losses", SSDB Executive Director Gord Schroeder said. "The increase in the guardian dog rebate will make purchasing a dog more affordable and reduce livestock losses.”
All Saskatchewan producers may be eligible for compensation for damage to crops and livestock caused by wildlife. Producers may also receive funding for preventative measures to reduce wildlife damage to feed supplies and livestock.
