A loose goat caused a stir in Upper Seagry, Wiltshire, prompting a response from local police who utilized riot shields and a lasso to safely capture the animal on Thursday morning.
Goat on the Loose in Wiltshire
The escaped goat was observed “on a rampage” according to reports, chasing a woman and attempting to eat oranges from a Christmas wreath. Officers PC Ferris and PC Miller, from the Chippenham Response team, were dispatched to the scene.
The situation required a measured approach, with officers initially using riot shields as the goat attempted to “butt my head,” as one officer stated on body-worn camera footage. A tow line and lasso were employed to secure the animal, though it briefly escaped before being successfully re-captured.
The goat also showed an interest in police equipment, attempting to eat safety gear from the back of a police car. An officer commented, “Apparently it’s not very nice.”
Recent Incidents Involving Goats
This incident follows a similar situation in Cumbria in October, where a rescue operation was launched to save a goat stranded under a bridge. The subsequent attempt by an individual to reach the animal led to a further emergency response to prevent a potential water rescue.
The Wiltshire goat was ultimately returned to its owner. It is possible that local authorities may review animal control procedures in light of these recent events, though no such action has been announced. A possible next step could be increased public awareness campaigns regarding safe animal interaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the police response in Wiltshire?
Police responded to reports of an escaped goat causing disruption in Upper Seagry, including chasing a woman and attempting to eat decorations.
How was the goat eventually captured?
Wiltshire police used a combination of riot shields and a lasso to safely capture the goat and return it to its owner.
Has this happened before in the UK?
In October, a similar incident occurred in Cumbria involving a stranded goat and a subsequent rescue attempt that required the assistance of fire crews and police.
What measures, if any, do you think could be taken to prevent similar incidents involving escaped animals in the future?
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