A dog had to be put down after it was caught and identified as having attacked a number of sheep near Shrewsbury.

Police today warned dog owners they could face prosecution and their pets could be shot if their animal is found to be bothering livestock.

Officers are urging people to keep dogs on leads and under control in the countryside as more animals are now out in the fields.

Farmers are legally entitled to shoot dogs on their land which are worrying livestock.Constable Dave Harte said: “Even the most faithful and loving family pet can turn into a savage and merciless killer when away from its owner’s control and confronted by a flock of sheep.

“Any kind of dog can be capable of sheep worrying, and if people don’t want to lose their pets they need to keep them restrained near livestock.

“If dog owners live in the countryside, they must ensure their dogs are kept secure and are not allowed to escape onto farmland if they are outside.

“If a dog is caught and identified as having worried sheep or other livestock, the animal could be put down and their owners liable to prosecution. One dog was put down this month after attacking a number of sheep near Shrewsbury.”

He added: “Dogs caught worrying sheep are liable to be shot.”