Ewe must mind dogs

Dog owners are warned to keep their pets away from sheep or risk having them shot.

There were seven cases of sheep worrying in Ayrshire in the space of six months last year.

Police and farmers have appealed for people to keep their pets on a lead near livestock.

And with spring lambs bounding around, it is advised to steer clear of fields

NFU Ayrshire manager Christine Cuthbertson said farmers are forced to shoot hounds worrying their stock.

She said: “I would urge the public in Ayrshire to ensure that when taking access to fields with livestock they ensure that dogs are under proper control. Last year there were a number of instances where farmers were left with no choice but to destroy dogs they caught worrying their stock, and in addition to this a number of owners received hefty sanctions.”

PC Graeme Gordon said: “In the course of my duties I have attended many instances of sheep worrying and the only way to describe what I have found is that it’s a blood bath. Many sheep don’t die of their injuries but walk about with horrific wounds to the neck and rear. These walking wounded usually get put to sleep.

Dog owners of Ayrshire, let us all be responsible dog owners and look after our four legged friends and that means keep them under control when livestock are near. I know I will.

He added: “Farmers and land owners can legitimately shoot your dog if it is at large in a field of livestock.”

Councillor Ian Cochrane said: “At this time of year, it’s vital that dog walkers respect their environment, and think about the consequences of their actions. This means keeping dogs under close control at all times and cleaning up after your pet.”

There were seven reported incidents of sheep worrying in Ayrshire last year between January and June.