HAMPSHIRE dog owners are being warned to keep their pets under control after sheep were injured in Bishop’s Waltham.
Three sheep were hurt in a suspected dog attack in West Hoe Lane, Bishop’s Waltham, between 3pm on Saturday, February 16 and 8am on Monday, February 18.
One of the sheep had to be destroyed due to its injuries.
PC Jon Radcliffe, of Hampshire Constabulary Countrywatch, said: “This sort of incident causes horrific injuries to the animals involved and should act as a stark reminder as to why there is legislation in place outlining that dog owners must keep their animal under close control.
“If a dog worries livestock, the dog owner or the person responsible for the dog at the time is guilty of an offence under the Dogs Act 1953 and may be sued for compensation by the farmer.
“Land owners have the right, as a last resort, to shoot any dog worrying their livestock – so these owners are also putting their beloved pet at unnecessary risk.”
It comes three weeks after a similar incident in Clanfield on Thursday, January 31, after a pregnant sheep suffered a life-threatening bite wound to her face.
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