Huntfor dog owner

Police want to trace the owner of a dog who is believed to have injured a sheep that was rescued from a river.

The incident unfolded in Colmonell on Sunday, May 1 when members of the public were alerted to a sheep in distress.

A group were able to rescue the sheep from the water but it showed signs of injury near its mouth, where it was allegedly attacked.

A Police Scotland spokesperson warned dog owners that they are risking their pet’s life if they don’t keep them under control in the countryside.

They added: “If you’re in an area where livestock are nearby, always keep your dog in your sights and maintain control over them.

“If you can’t guarantee this, use a lead.

“It’s important to be aware that under certain circumstances, land owners can shoot your dog if it is attacking or causing distress to their animals.”

Under new laws that came into force, owners of dogs that attack or worry livestock can be fined up to £40,000 or jailed for up to 12 months.