Out of control dogs on Scout Scar

Welsh Black cattle grazing on Scout Scar near the cliff-edge

A sunlit morning on Scout Scar yesterday. Welsh Black cattle grazed close to the escarpment cliff, the snow-clad fells beyond.  These cattle are docile, even when under threat, as I was about to witness.  I was photographing the  peaceful scene when a family with three dogs approached. The dogs went for the cow, harassing  her,  then two of them ran slavering and barking at me. I asked them to control their dogs. The man asserted, 'they are in control.'  I was taking photographs, here's the evidence. 

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You can’t hear the dogs barking, can’t see their rapid moves, but the  photograph is clear.  One dog is crouching low, close to  the cliff edge to the left of the cow.  The other two turned to run at me.  The utter lack of respect shown to a farmer’s stock and to walkers who do not go enjoy being assaulted by dogs is disgraceful. And irresponsible, close to a cliff-edge. The arrogance of denying what is happening before your eyes.  
 
The woman hoped I would enjoy my walk.  I shall, if I’m not threatened by out-of-control dogs. (Her sub-text is, put up with it.) There are insights, sudden glimpses into a family dynamic. I made my view plain, if they get irony. The farmer has posted notices saying dogs worrying stock will be shot. Picture the scene if he'd been here. I should have said I've shot their dogs- with a Cannon. The big guns.  My camera is a Canon, that’s the brand. Now, shall I post the shot and expose them?
I remember a show at Loughrigg where proud owners of a pack of hounds talked about their training. Sociability and manners- those are the qualities needed.   Sociability and manners, no sign of either in this encounter.