A FARMER was forced to shoot a dog dead after an attack on his sheep.

The incident happened in the Cotswolds on Monday March 26 where a large husky type dog killed a lamb and attacked three pregnant ewes who are now at risk of a miscarriage.

Despite the farmers best attempts to catch the dog, he was unable to do so and concluded that the only way of protecting his animals was to shoot the one which was attacking them.

The dog's owner has apologised to the farmer and arrangements have been made to recompense him for his loss.

There have been a series of similar attacks on sheep across the county over the past month which is a key time for farmers whose livelihood can be seriously affected if ewes miscarry or if animals are killed.

PC Ashley Weller, Wildlife Crime Officer for the Cotswolds, said: "Every year farmers suffer the consequences of irresponsible dog owners, with many of their sheep being attacked and killed or losing their unborn young.

"Once again we are appealing to all dog owners to keep their pets on leads when they are near any livestock, no matter how much you trust them. This is for your own sake as well as the farm animals.

"It is an offence to allow your dog to worry livestock and farmers have legal rights, under certain conditions, to shoot the dog if they feel the livestock is in danger.

"In Monday's incident the farmer did everything he could to try and catch the dog, but as a last resort had no choice but to shoot it to prevent more of his flock being killed. There is still a strong possibility the pregnant ewes will miscarry over the next few days.

"Anyone identified letting their dog off the lead resulting in an attack or worrying incident will be dealt with by the police and compensation will be sought for the farmer."

Residents are being urged to join the #takethelead campaign which aims to raise awareness about dog attacks on sheep and encourages dog owners to ensure dogs on their leads.