Police have launched an appeal for information after a dog attacked and killed six in-lamb Swaledale ewes carrying twins, injuring several more.
The incident took place in the Parracombe area, North Devon between 3pm on Tuesday March 9 and 10am on Thursday March 11.
Research by Farmers Gurdian has shown a surge in dog attacks on livestock over the last few years, with devastating incidents of dogs chasing and attacking sheep hitting headlines on a weekly basis.
Latest data from NFU Mutual revealed the cost of dog attacks on farm animals rose to £1.3 million in 2020, an increase of more than 10 per cent.
In a Facebook post, Lynton Police said: “There is a real possibility that the other ewes could lose their lambs or die from the shock of the attack.
“Please keep your dog under control and on a lead around livestock, it is a criminal offence to all your dog to chase, bite or injure livestock.
“Offenders may be prosecuted.”
Anyone with information can contact the police quoting the crime number CR/019090/21 by ringing 101, emailing 101@dc.police.uk via the contact page, Web Chat or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.