A dog has attacked and killed a sheep and left its lamb “highly distressed” in Daventry, Northamptonshire Police has said.
The force is investigating the incident and has issued a reminder to dog walkers to keep their pets under control around livestock.
The attack occured between 7:30p.m on Sunday (August 18) and 9:00a.m on Monday (August 19).
It is believed a dog entered private land off Browns Road and attacked and killed the sheep, leaving its lamb distressed.
Officers from the Northamptonshire Police’s rural crime team are investigating and want to hear from anyone with information about the incident.
They are also repeating advice for dog owners about preventing livestock worrying and keeping their pets safe, reminding owners that farmers are legally allowed to shoot a dog to prevent livestock worrying.
Anyone with information about the death of the sheep is asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 101, or share information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, using incident number 24000495131.
Responsible dog walking
Northamptonshire Police has compiled a list of tips for safe and responsible dog walking around livestock.
The tips are:
- Keep dogs on a lead and under control when walking through fields of livestock;
- Always stick to public rights of way and leave all gates as you found them;
- If you live beside land where livestock is grazed, ensure you always know where your dog is, and keep your property secure so your dog cannot escape;
- Cows can be curious and may follow walkers. If this happens, keep facing the animal and move calmly and slowly, don’t turn your back on it or run;
- Steer well clear of young animals and do not try to pet them. Cows with calves will be protective and may become aggressive;
- If you feel threatened by cattle when with a dog, let go of the lead so you and the dog can get to safety separately;
- Dog owners must bag and bin their dog’s poo – as it carries a parasite called Neosporin which causes abortions in animals and the bags left on the ground can be ingested and cause slow painful deaths, or baled into silage and eaten that way.
