Warning to keep pet dogs under control after sheep mauled

Dog owners are being warned to keep their pets under control after a sheep was mauled in North Lanarkshire.

The Scottish SPCA said the farm animal suffered injuries to its neck and back legs in the attack by a black Labrador on Tuesday.

The dog owner was witnessed quickly leaving the scene in Airdrie.

As more walkers take to rural routes amid the coronavirus outbreak, the Scottish SPCA is reminding pet owners that it is an offence to allow a dog to worry a sheep Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953.

Inspector Sian Robertson said sheep worrying can often lead to the animal being killed as it could run into fences or walls when panicked.

She added: “During lambing season sheep and lambs are even more vulnerable. The stress that sheep incur whilst being chased can lead to them miscarrying and even death.

“If a sheep or lamb is caught by a dog they often have to be put to sleep due to their injuries.

“It can also be devastating for the farmer responsible for the sheep.”

Inspector Robertson is advising walkers not to travel long distances in the countryside due to the social distancing measures put in place by the Government,

She added: “We are also advising that dogs should be kept on their lead and under control at all times.

“If your local walk takes you near any livestock please remember it is a dog’s natural instinct to chase and we would always recommend that dogs are kept on a lead near any farm animal.”

Anyone with any information on sheep worrying should contact the Scottish SPCA’s confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.