Savaging of sheep prompts warning

Shropshire border countryside are being warned farmers are entitled to shoot animals caught worrying livestock on their land.

It follows dog attacks on sheep in the Cil Mawr area, between Meifod and Pentrebeirdd, in the last few weeks.

Dyfed-Powys Police has now warned dog owners to to make sure their pets cannot escape into fields.

Constable Bob Beaman, of the force, said: "We are investigating a number of attacks in the Cil Mawr area after local farmers found several dead and injured ewes which had injuries consistent with dog attacks."

This year eight sheep we- re savaged by dogs in fields at Trehellig, near Welshpool Airport. The ewes and two lambs had to be put down.

Police spokeswoman Sian George said: "Those walking their dogs should also make sure the animals are kept on a lead whenever near livestock," she said. "Even the most loving family pet can become a killer when faced with a flock of sheep.

"Farmers are allowed by law to shoot any dog they catch worrying animals on their land and the police will take action against owners whose pet is identified as having attacked livestock. This can include prosecution, heavy costs and even the dog being put down."

Farmers Union of Wales president Gareth Vaughan, who farms in Dolfor, near Newtown, said he would not hesitate to shoot a dog worrying livestock on his land.