Police launch probe as eight sheep killed in dog attack on farm in Peebles

Police have launched an investigation after eight sheep were killed in a “dog attack” on a farm in the Scottish Borders.

The sheep worrying incident happened near Peebles on Thursday, March 10, after the farmer found two dogs on the farm.

The owner collected the missing dogs, but the next day, eight sheep were found dead.

Police said the sheep “all had injuries consistent with being attacked by a dog” and have now launched an investigation into the incident.

Sergeant David Rourke said: “Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances and officers are following a positive line of enquiry.

“However, we are appealing for anyone who may have information that could help further with our investigation to get in touch. If you can assist then call us on 101, quoting incident number 0989 of Friday, 11 March, 2022.

“The lambing season has started and worrying can cause stress to sheep that can result in them losing their lambs as well as injuries that can lead to their death and all of this is a considerable cost to farmers.

“Dog owners could face prosecution under The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2021 if their dog attacks livestock so we are urging them to keep dogs on a lead when walking near livestock as well as making sure they do not run or escape into fields on their own.

“I am asking all dog owners to be considerate. Please remember that it is your dog and your responsibility to keep them under control.

“The legislation has recently changed and now includes camelids such as llamas and alpacas, as well as ostriches, game birds and farmed deer.”