FARMERS have shot five dogs after the pets attacked their sheep and unborn lambs.
The incidents at farms across South Warwickshire saw the dogs and a number of pregnant sheep killed.
The first of the most recent attacks happened at around 2pm on Thursday (January 19) at Lower Shuckburgh in Daventry and the other happened the next day at around 10am in Ladbroke.
There were also other attacks earlier this year.
Police are now warning owners to keep dogs on their leads around livestock.
PC Mike Barnett said: “We are at the very beginning of lambing season and we are already starting to have problems with dogs. Farmers are within their rights to shoot dogs worrying sheep on their land.
“To lose sheep and unborn lambs has a big effect on farmers’ livelihoods. To lose a loved pet causes huge upset for dog owners too.
“All it takes to avoid this distress is to keep dogs on leads and make sure they cannot get out and run loose.”
Farmers can give signage to put up on their properties by contacting local police. Visit www.warwickshire.police.uk/myarea to find out more.
Dog owners can visit www.warwickshire.police.uk for advice and information.
