YOU FIND AN INJURED SHEEP

THAT SHEEP DOESN’T LOOK RIGHT! Keep an eye on it and see if you can figure out what’s wrong. Take a photo or video if you need to leave but want to report it.

WHAT’S HAPPENED TO IT?

It could be any number of things. Sheep chased by dogs can end up cragfast or injured. Deaths or injuries can occur during birth, especially if the farmer isn’t there to assist. Sheep can also get entangled in wire. A sheep stuck on its back may not be able to get back up again without help. And flystrike takes place when flies lay eggs on soiled wool or wounds, resulting in an infestation of maggots. Nasty. Roads, snow and bogs are also dangers for animals.

WHO SHOULD I TELL?

Call the police on 101. Give a precise location and as much info as possible.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I TELL THEM? The type and colour of the sheep, ear tag numbers, notches or the colour of paint marks. What seems to be wrong? Are they collapsed or bleeding? Are they mobile? You might be asked for your name and number for help with directions later.

CAN I GO NOW? Probably, but if you know someone is coming up to find it and you have time, stick around to help with directions. The police or Mountain Rescue will let you know if that’s helpful.

THIS LAMB HAS BEEN ABANDONED! I’M GOING TO RETURN IT TO THE FARM Don’t! Often lambs only appear to be abandoned and the mother is actually not too far away. Report it instead.