Dog attack on lambs sparks plea for lead usage

A dog attack which left a number of lambs seriously injured has sparked a warning from Surrey's deputy police and crime commissioner.

A lamb had its top lip torn away in the attack earlier this month at a farm in Dorking, which previously lost almost 30 sheep in a single attack.

After visiting the farm, Surrey DPCC Ellie Vesey-Thompson urged dog owners to keep pets on leads.

"Surrey is home to many responsible dog-owners who deeply cherish their pets. But even the most trusted of dogs can behave in surprising or shocking ways," she said.

Vesey-Thompson warned of the "traumatising" effects of livestock worrying, which is a criminal offence in the UK and includes barking, chasing, biting and killing.

She said: "While I'm pleased that the lamb is recovering well, others that were more seriously hurt remain critically unwell, and, despite excellent care and treatment, sadly may not recover.

"This is an absolutely horrific incident that could so easily have been prevented by the simple action of putting a dog on a lead."

The National Sheep Association (NSA) said it was also important to ensure dogs were secure in the home or garden.

"Dogs straying from their own homes is another common cause of devastating sheep worrying attacks, potentially leading to sheep prolonged suffering until the impact of the incident is discovered," a spokesperson said.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.