Dog owners warned after sheep dies following chase
Police have released footage of a dog chasing sheep in a field where a ewe was later found dead.
The video, recorded by a member of the public on 12 April in a field near Winchcombe Cricket Club, shows a small brown dog chasing a ewe and its lamb. The ewe appears to collapse mid-chase.
A dead ewe was discovered the next morning, though it has not been confirmed if it was the same animal.
The incident has prompted a strong warning from police to dog owners across Gloucestershire.
'Chasing can kill'
Police emphasised that dogs do not need to bite to cause harm.
The stress of being chased can lead to fatal injuries or death in sheep, especially during lambing season, according to police.
"This tragic incident shows just how dangerous an uncontrolled dog can be around livestock," a police spokesperson said.
Officers believe the dog in the video may be called Maisie and are asking the owner, or anyone who recognises the dog, to come forward.
The incident follows Gloucestershire Police's Operation Recall campaign, aimed at educating owners about responsible dog walking in rural areas.
Key advice includes:
- Always check for livestock before letting dogs off-lead
- Keep dogs on a lead near livestock or wild animals
- Be extra cautious during lambing season
- Don't allow anyone who can't control the dog to walk it
- Landowners may legally shoot dogs worrying their livestock, but must notify police within 48 hours
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