UPDATED: 20 sheep have been killed in Merstone following what is thought to be a dog attack during the early hours of this morning (Wednesday).
The animals were found between Merstone and Horrigford, not far from the cycle path.
Local man Ben Souter has shared a shocking image on Facebook today in a plea for anyone with any information to come forward.
Ben was tasked to the removal of the animals claiming that 20 had unfortunately died in the devastating incident.
With over 180 shares on Facebook already, people are sharing their outrage that attacks of this nature still happen – with stress alone sometimes being a factor in the death of a sheep.
It is currently unclear whether the attack was just one single dog, or multiple.
UPDATE THURSDAY – Hampshire Constabulary have confirmed that 23 animals perished in yesterday’s attack.
A spokesperson for the Police has said:
“We were called to a report of dead animals — 22 ewes and one lamb — at a farm in Arreton following a possible animal attack. Enquiries are ongoing.
“Some of the dead sheep appear to have been bitten, but it’s not clear as to what animal may have caused these injuries at this stage. We are carrying out enquiries in the area with the Country Watch team to establish what happened. Did you see an animal, such as a dog, running loose in the area or has your animal returned home with indications that it may have been involved?
“I’d like to take this opportunity to remind dog owners that although it is not illegal to have a dog off of a lead near livestock, it is illegal not to have them under close control. If your dog does not come back immediately when you call it, it is not under close control. You also would need to be in line of sight of your dog at all times and paying attention to its actions.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Acting Sergeant Martin Egerton on 101, quoting 44180335965 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
