A dog owner in Wales has been convicted following a livestock attack whereby 22 pregnant sheep were killed and a further 48 were injured.
26-year-old David Hughes admitted to being in charged of a dog dangerously out of control and being the owner of a dog worrying livestock in court on August 22.
Two American XL Bulldogs in Hughes’ care attacked sheep on private agricultural land in March of this year after they escaped from their home
Police said that after “several attempts” by the farmer to stop the dogs one became aggressive towards him. Both dogs were eventually shot by the farmer on the scene.
According to police the financial cost of the dog attack amounted to more than £14,000.
Hughes has been banned from keeping dogs for five years and ordered to pay £900 in fines.
Across the UK as a whole, it estimates £1.8 million worth of farm animals were killed or injured by dogs in 2022.
PC Chris James from North Wales Police welcomed Hughes’ conviction.
“I welcome this result after what was a horrific scene for the victim, who is still suffering the effects of the incident today. The emotional and financial impact on the farmer has been considerable,” he said.
“Livestock attacks are extremely distressing not only for the animals, but for their keepers too. The costs, both financially and emotionally for such distressing incidents are wholly unacceptable,” he added.
“Responsible dog ownership is key in tackling these awful incidents, which are far too common. It is so important to ensure pets are always kept on a lead and under control around in the countryside – or if left at home alone, that the house or garden are secure.
“A dog’s owner is the only person who can prevent an attack from happening, and you may have to pay the ultimate price if you cannot control your animal.
“If your dog has escaped in a rural area, you should contact the police as early as possible so local farmers and landowners can be alerted.”
