Irresponsible owners must take the lead

Yet again we today carry reports of sheep being mauled by out of control dogs. The incident, which resulted in one animal having to be put down, is the latest in a long line of similar occurrences in recent months.

The reports are troubling on several levels.

Of course, the death of livestock is upsetting for the farmers involved, while the potential income lost as a result of every attack is an associated irritant.

Also worrying is the fact the message simply does not seem to be getting across.

The latest call from police for dog owners to be vigilant echoes countless previous pleas.

It is not as if the message is a particularly confusing or difficult one.

Responsibility is all that is required.

The dangers of owners failing to exercise proper control when out and about in the countryside is heightened during the lambing season.

We are lucky in this part of Scotland to enjoy some truly breathtaking scenery.

Similarly, we are fortunate indeed to enjoy the right to roam almost anywhere we choose.

However, with this right comes responsibility.

It is high time the small but significant minority who fail to take this responsibility seriously change their ways – before we see any more reports of the type carried today.