Appeal after three sheep killed in 'dog attack'

A farmer is calling on dog owners to be more responsible after three of her sheep were found dead.

The animals were discovered on the Great Oakley Estate near Corby, Northamptonshire at about 08:30 GMT on Christmas Eve.

Farmer Fay Johnson, who found the dead creatures, said it was "obvious" the deceased nine-month-old ewe ewe lambs "had been attacked by a dog or dogs".

Northamptonshire Police has been approached for comment.

Ms Johnson found the bodies as part of a routine inspection of her flock and said she suspected they had probably been killed on 23 December.

She said: "We desperately need to increase awareness amongst dog owners of the importance of keeping dogs on a lead and under control when near livestock, regardless of breed or temperament.

"It's not only the physical injuries caused by dog attacks but the stress of the chase which can cause sheep to abort unborn lambs.

"It is really awful to see animals suffering in this way."

Following the incident, The Great Oakley Estate said it had now indefinitely removed a permissive footpath which crossed the field in which the sheep were grazing.

Alexander de Capell Brooke, of The Great Oakley Estate, said. "This was a horrific attack by a dog whose owner has clearly, and without permission, let their dog off the lead.

"In view of this horrific attack, the permissive path across this field will be closed indefinitely.

"Permissive rights of way are just that - they are not public footpaths. They are granted by landowners at their discretion so that people may have wider access to and better understanding of the countryside. When incidents such as this occur, we have to close the footpaths to protect livestock."

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