POLICE in Mid Devon are warning people to keep their dogs under control this spring, especially during lambing season.

It follows several reports of livestock worrying – a criminal offence – in the district in February.

One incident in Culmstock saw a sheep need emergency veterinary treatment after being attacked by two dogs.

The owner of the dogs admitted the offence and covered the vets' costs. She received a dog control order, meaning her dogs need to always be on a lead outside of the home. If this does not happen, she risks being taken to court and having her dogs put down.

“The Mid Devon neighbourhood policing team would like to highlight the importance of keeping your dogs under control now spring has sprung,” said Mid Devon Sector Inspector Mark Arthurs.

“As we enjoy the lighter evenings, we are seeing more cattle and sheep with their offspring in the fields.

“It is really important that while dog owners are enjoying the finer weather, they remember dogs should always be under control and on a lead in the presence of livestock or cattle.

“It’s simply not worth the risk of your dog running off and worrying or injuring grazing animals.

“A dog worrying sheep or cattle could be shot by a farmer or if the dog is dangerously out of control police may seek a court order for the destruction of the dog(s).

“Livestock worrying is a highly emotive subject with the farming community; they not only suffer the financial implications of these attacks but the emotional impact too.

“I would implore dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead and choose fenced-off dog exercise parks to let their dogs off the lead.

“We live in a great area of the country and while I want people to enjoy our rural communities, I need to highlight that livestock worrying could result in a criminal record for the dog owner and the person in charge of the dog at the time.

“Policing teams in rural locations have been distributing posters highlighting the need for dogs to be under control to protect humans and other animals.

“Officers will also continue to conduct patrols in these areas to help combat other rural crime, including plant and farm machinery theft.”

Livestock worrying includes not just chasing, biting and killing but also barking.

Any dog can worry livestock and cause stress to animals, no matter how well trained. A dog in a public place must wear a collar and name tag.

Owners should pick up dog waste on grazing land as it can cause parasites to livestock resulting in expensive vet fees for farmers.

If you see an attack on livestock, do not intervene but instead dial 999. If it is safe to do so, photograph or video the incident as evidence for police.

Information relating to attacks on livestock that are not currently happening should be reported to the police online or by telephoning 101.

Anonymous information can also be provided to Crimestoppers via its website or by telephoning 0800 555 111.