Police are appealing for information following a serious livestock attack in the Cornaa area, which has left two sheep dead and a ram missing.
Officers attended the scene after a number of sheep were found with injuries consistent with a dog attack.
One sheep died at the scene, and a second had to be euthanised due to the severity of its injuries. Two other sheep are currently receiving treatment, while a ram remains unaccounted for.
Law
Under the Dogs Act 1990, it is an offence for a dog to worry livestock on agricultural land.
A conviction for livestock worrying can result in a significant financial penalty, and the court has the power to order the destruction of the dog.
Liability falls on the keeper and on any person who had charge of the dog at the time of the attack.
Dog walkers are being reminded to keep their animals on a lead whenever livestock are present or likely to be present, and to ensure dogs cannot run ahead out of sight.
The Dogs Act 1990 provides a defence in certain circumstances where a person kills or injures a dog to protect livestock, but only where immediate action is necessary.
Dog owners are further reminded that it is an offence for a dog to be at large and not under effective control, as established under the Dogs Act 1990 as amended by the Dogs Amendment Act 2006.
Anyone who was in the Cornaa area and may have seen a loose dog is asked to contact Police Headquarters on 631212, quoting Investigation Reference 97/2332/26.