'Devastating' dog attack leaves 34 sheep dead

Police have appealed for information after 34 sheep died after a dog attack in Lincolnshire.

According to Lincolnshire Police, the animals were attacked by a dog or dogs in a field to the west of Haugham Road, near Tathwell, on 13 March.

Four sheep were killed at the scene, with the remaining animals dying later as a result of shock and injuries sustained during the attack, the force said.

All of the sheep were pregnant, increasing the impact on animal welfare and the financial loss to the farmer, which was estimated to be between £10,000 and £15,000, a police spokesperson added.

Det Con Aaron Flint, a wildlife crime officer, said: "Incidents like this are devastating for farmers, both emotionally and financially.

"Livestock worrying is a serious offence, and dog owners must take responsibility for ensuring their animals are properly controlled at all times.

"Even a normally well-behaved dog can instinctively chase or attack livestock if given the opportunity," he added.

It comes after new legislation introduced this week left dog owners facing unlimited fines if their pets attack livestock.

The changes to existing "livestock worrying" laws, which date back more than 70 years, give police powers to take DNA samples from dogs suspected of attacking, chasing or causing distress to farm animals.

Flint said the legislation strengthened police powers and increased penalties for livestock worrying.

"The law now makes clear that a dog does not need to physically injure animals to commit an offence - chasing or causing distress to livestock is sufficient," he said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the force via its 101 non-emergency number, or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

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