PSNI are warning of the risk to livestock following a dog attack on the Cadigan Road in Dungannon.
A spokesperson for the PSNI said “a number of sheep have been attacked in their field on the Cadigan Road Dungannon. These have subsequently been put to sleep as a result of their injuries”.
The latest incident involving unleashed dogs comes just over a month since Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council reminded owners and walkers to keep control of their dogs when near livestock following a number of serious dog attacks on sheep in the area.
Chasing by dogs can do serious damage to livestock, even if the dog does not catch them. The stress of worrying by dogs can cause sheep to die and pregnant ewes to miscarry their lambs causing financial loss to a farmer.
On this occasion is would appear that the dog attack “may have escaped from a home or yard in the area”
The PSNI are calling on the farming community to be aware so that precautions can be taken to try and prevent any further incidents.
Equally dog owners are being reminded to keep their dogs on a lead when out walking and ensure that any dog runs/pens are secure to prevent escape.
Advice from Mid-Ulster Council website states: “if your dog attacks another animal or person, or if you or an animal you own has been attacked by a dog, you should report the incident to us.
We will investigate the alleged attack, and when all the relevant information has been gathered, we will make a decision about any action to take, including whether there is enough evidence to take a prosecution”.
Owners can also face other consequences including a £1,000 fine, court costs and in some cases the cost of having their dog humanely destroyed.
If you need further advice useful information can be assessed on NI Direct ‘Controlling Your Dog In Public’. The National Sheep Association also provides useful advice for dog owners
You can contact our Environmental Health service at Mid-Ulster District Council on 03000 132 132 or email environmentalhealth@midulstercouncil.org
Read more: Multiple sheep killed in three separate dog attacks in past week
