A Wiltshire sheep farmer has spoken out about the devastating impact of livestock worrying, urging dog owners to keep their pets under control when walking through fields.
James, a repeat victim of livestock worrying, shared his traumatic experience with Wiltshire Police, describing the horrific scene of finding bloodied and dead sheep in his field. "As a sheep farmer, it's the one call you're always dreading," James said.
"There's nothing worse than turning up to a field and seeing blood all over the sheep and dead ones lying around. It's horrific."
Wiltshire Police are reminding dog owners to keep their pets on a lead and under control when walking through fields, even if livestock is not visible.
Dogs chasing livestock can cause devastating impacts, including miscarriage in pregnant ewes and injuries to the animals as they try to flee.
PC Howick from the Rural Crime Team warned that Wiltshire Police have seen an increase in reports of sheep being attacked by dogs in recent weeks. "We are asking the public, when out enjoying the countryside, to be vigilant and respectful of sheep in fields,"
PC Howick said. If you witness a dog chasing or attacking livestock, call 999 immediately.
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