The attack happened on farmland between Long Preston and Settle sometime between Wednesday (May 20) and Thursday.
Meanwhile, the body of a lamb with a sign bearing the words ‘Dogs Kill Again’ appeared this week at the top of Albert Hill in Settle, an area popular with dog walkers and with low field walls. It is not known if the two incidents are connected.
A spokesperson for Craven Police, referring to the incident under investigation, said: “The lamb’s injuries were so severe that it had to be put to sleep by vets, and it had endured pain and suffering until it was found.
“In March, the law surrounding the worrying (attacking) of livestock, including sheep and cattle, was strengthened. The previous fine limit of £1000 has now been increased to an unlimited amount for owners, or those on charge of the dogs at the time they attack, chase, cause injury or distress to livestock.
“No contact is necessary for the offence to be made out, the dog can just be loose, chasing, running at or causing fear and panic leading to stress or miscarriage or injury. Police also have greater authorities to seize and detain dogs, and can enter premises to search for evidence and animal DNA to identify responsible dogs.”
The spokesperson urged local dog owners to be responsible, to set an example to visitors who may be un-used to walking in the country, and in addition to sheep and cattle, be mindful of ground-nesting birds.
“Please be a responsible dog owner, even if your dog does not worry farm animals. Set a great example to visitors from out of the area who may not have any idea how their dog may react to livestock or wildlife,” said the spokesperson.
“Keep dogs on leads around livestock, and where they may be able to jump walls or fences to get to them. Even where there is no livestock, please consider ground nesting birds, even if you can’t see them. Let’s keep our countryside a safe place for all to enjoy.”
Anyone with any information about the attack on the sheep is asked to call North Yorkshire Police and ask for PC188 Jane Carpenter; or email: jane.carpenter@northyorkshire.police.uk; or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or via its website.
