Gwent Police have urged dog owners to keep their pets under control following a series of incidents in which sheep and lambs have been chased or attacked across the region in recent weeks.
Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, it is a criminal offence for a dog to “worry” livestock – including chasing or attacking animals in a way that could cause injury, suffering or stress to animals.
The force stressed that most owners act responsibly, but warned that farmers are legally permitted to injure or kill a dog if it is endangering their animals.
Police are asking walkers to keep dogs on leads near farmland and ensure pets cannot escape from gardens or properties. Anyone who sees a dog on the loose and worrying livestock is urged to report it immediately.
Call Gwent Police on 101, email [email protected], or send a direct message to the force’s social media channels.