Police warn owners after dog savages sheep
Police are warning dog walkers to keep their pets on a lead after sheep were savaged in Northumberland.
A number of sheep were left dead or badly injured after being attacked by a dog at Whittonstall, in the south of the county yesterday.
A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: "Owners can be prosecuted if their pets are let off their leads in a farmer’s field or enclosed space. Farmers are within their rights to shoot and kill dogs if they are deemed to be causing distress to flocks, as such attacks can often lead to huge financial losses.
"By ensuring your dogs are kept under control when sheep or other livestock are present, you can significantly reduce the chances of any of the animals involved coming to harm."