13 in-lambs ewes, carrying twins, have been killed by a dog in Cheshire in the UK.
Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team was called to the scene of the incident on Wednesday morning (February 24th, 2021).
In-lamb ewes killed
Police wish to speak to the owner of a red-coloured dog that was allegedly seen to be chasing ewes, all carrying twins, in fields off the A56 near to Sutton Hall Golf Club site (between Frodsham and Sutton Weaver) at 9 am.
In a statement, a police spokesperson said: “Someone knows the dog and owner involved. Please contact 101 if you are the dog owner or if you know who the dog owner is.”
‘My dog has never done this before’
Sgt Simpson of Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team said this is an “incredibly” easy crime to avoid, by just simply keeping your dog on a lead.
“We have lost count of the number of times we have posted about the subject. We will continue to raise it, as we hope some will take note. This spring, when we are likely to see restrictions lifted, more dogs will be heading into the countryside.”
“Unfortunately, just at lambing time and also ground-nesting time for some birds. The damage that could be done to our livestock industry could be huge, and the impact on the wildlife, very significant.”
“Remember, when we interview people, they always say ‘my dog has never done this before’. You and your dog can end up with restrictions placed on you, including as in one of our cases, not being able to go in any field without the landowner’s prior permission.”
“Please don’t let your dog pay the ultimate price because of your actions. There is a legal defence to shoot a dog which is worrying livestock. In Cheshire, two dogs have sadly lost their lives in recent times.” Sgt Simpson concluded.
