Dog walkers warned over attacks on sheep

Police issue warning and make appeal after man charged over one incident

Dog walkers are being warned to keep their pets under control following another spate of sheep worrying incidents on farms across Fife.

Police say four animals have been killed or destroyed as a result of attacks in the past four weeks.

A man has been charged in connection with one of the incidents but officers are appealing for information about the others.

The most recent attack happened in the Cults area between Monday and Tuesday. One sheep was found dead and the other had to be put down due to the severity of the injuries to its face and head.

Another ewe was put down after it was found seriously injured from a suspected dog attack in the Glencraig area on Friday April 13.

A lamb had to be destroyed after it suffered severe puncture wounds and a suspected broken back in an incident on Sunday April 8 in the Falkland area.

A 35-year-old man has been charged with allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control in connection with this incident and a report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.

Cupar-based Inspector Jane Combe said: “Four animals in under four weeks have suffered painful and unnecessary deaths, with three farmers being forced to end their own animals’ lives.

“This is absolutely unacceptable and, as we head towards the better weather, we are taking this opportunity to remind all dog walkers and owners of their responsibilities.

“Dogs attacking, chasing and being in close proximity to sheep can all be considered livestock worrying.”

She said owners should avoid fields with livestock when out walking and keep dogs on a short lead where this isn’t possible.

Dogs attacking, chasing and being in close proximity to sheep can all be livestock worrying. INSPECTOR JANE COMBE

In the past four weeks, four sheep have been killed or destroyed due to dog attacks, say police.