A dog has died as a result of a sheep worrying incident in Disley, Cheshire, northwest England, Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team has said.
The dog broke free of its lead yesterday (Sunday, March 13) and went on to worry a number of sheep, Sgt. Simpson of the crime team said.
One sheep was left with bite marks on and around its nose and chin.
This incident was witnessed by the owner who tried to recall the dog, but it wouldn’t return. Numerous attempts were made by the dog’s owner and the farmer who arrived on scene, before they were left with ‘no other option‘.
“If it’s not clear on the post due my wording, the dog sadly died as a result of the incident,” said Sgt. Simpson, who described the entire sheep worrying incident as a “very sad event”.
“No-one wants to shoot a family pet,” he said
“But it’s clear in law that someone protecting their livestock have this option available to them.”
He added that ‘your dog, your responsibility’ is a message that the team stands by, and that the crime of worrying livestock is being dealt with by the attending officer and those involved.
“My thoughts in general and not specific to this sad incident, is that any dog under your control should be suitably trained before opting to rely on a lead when near livestock,” Sgt. Simpson added.
“Ask yourself, if my dog broke free from its lead, am I happy that it will listen to my commands? Have I really got ‘control’?”
“If you’re not sure, please keep it away from livestock, even if you’re using a lead.”
