Eleven sheep were killed in an overnight dog attack between 6pm on Thursday, February 6th and 7.40am on Friday, February 7th.
The incident occurred in a field in Staffordshire in the UK.
Police believe the sheep suffered injuries consistent with having been inflicted by a dog.
They have taken DNA samples from the wounds of the sheep, and they will be sent to a specialist team in Scotland for analysis.
Vigilance
Chief Inspector, Ash Farrington, said that livestock are part of farmers’ livelihood and harm to them can be “very upsetting” and also have financial implications.
“Dog owners are reminded to be vigilant when walking their dog(s) near livestock as lambing season approaches, always make sure it’s on a lead and under control.”
“If using an extendable lead, make sure you keep it short, so the dog is by your side.
“A dog doesn’t have to kill sheep, or even chase them, for its owner to be committing an offence.”
“Letting a dog roam loose in an area where there are sheep can cause them stress and have health implications for their lambs.”
“In some circumstances, farmers and livestock owners are entitled to shoot dogs that are loose amongst their animals,” Farrington added.
Image source: Staffordshire Police
