A dead dog and a lamb with a “significant” injury are the results of a livestock worrying attack, which occurred in Cheshire over the weekend.
On Sunday, March 13th, 2022, a dog broke free of its lead and went on to worry several sheep, injuring one. The lamb sustained bite marks to its nose and under its chin.
According to Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team’s Sgt Simpson, the owner witnessed the “horrific” incident and attempted to recall the dog.
Dog dead
Simpson explained that the dog would not return, despite the owner’s and farmer’s “numerous” attempts. She said they were “left with no other option”.
She explained: “The action taken was witnessed by everyone present, and it is upsetting for all involved.”
“No one wants to shoot a family pet, but, it is clear in law, that someone protecting their livestock have this option available to them.”
“There are no positive bits, and this is a very sad event, which has resulted in significant injury to a lamb and the death of a dog.”
“This crime of worrying livestock is being dealt with by the attending officer and those involved.”
Your dog, your responsibility
She said one of the team’s “most complained about” social media lines is YOUR DOG, YOUR RESPONSIBILITY – mainly because this subject can be “very emotive”.
However, she stressed that it is a message police stand by.
She continued: “Ask yourself, if my dog broke free from its lead, am I happy that it will listen to my commands? Have I really got ‘control’?”
“If you are not sure, please keep it away from livestock, even if you are using a lead.”
“My thoughts, in general, and not specific to this sad incident is that any dog under your control should be suitably trained before opting to rely on a lead when near livestock.”
“Essentially, a lead should not be thought of as your primary control method,” she concluded.
