POLICE are investigating an incident which resulted in a sheep dying after it was alleged to have been attacked by a dog on the Malvern Hills..
Malvern Hills Conservators has announced that sometime on Saturday (January 9) a ‘loose and out of control’ dog attacked four sheep in Castlemorton Common.
The organisation stated on its website one of the sheep had to be put down after suffering a severe bite to the neck.
The Conservators, who own and care for the common land, claim the dog was caught in the act but the owners refused to take responsibility which led West Mercia Police looking into the incident.
A spokeswoman for Malvern Hills Conservators warned people with dogs to take full responsibility when out and about: “The three other sheep are likely to recover, although they may well have lost their unborn lambs through shock. This has brought considerable cost and stress to the local commoner involved.
“Dogs must be kept on a lead or under strict control at all times. As a last resort, farmers have the right to shoot a dog if it is worrying livestock.
“Please take care at all times when out with your dog. If you’re unsure – take the lead.”
The Malvern Hills and Commons are common land where farmers with commoners rights can freely graze their livestock.
Residents can check where the sheep and cattle are using the Stockwatch alerts by visiting www.malvernhills.org.uk although they can be found anywhere at any time.
