DOG owners are being warned not to let their pets off the lead near livestock after several sheep were injured in an attack last week.

One sheep, who was pregnant, was severely injured and another 35 left in a stressed state after the incident in a field off of Romsey Road, Ower, last Sunday

Owners of the flock, who do not wish to be named, were contacted by neighbours after the injured sheep was seen wandering several fields away from the farm.

The owners say this itself rang alarm bells as sheep rarely travel that kind of distance on their own. When it was recovered, a vet was called who confirmed the wounds were inflicted by a dog.

Electric fences were also found to have been taken down, a pair of trainers kicked off and lots of wool tufts about the field where the dog had taken chunks out of the sheep's fleece.

The owner added: "The injured ewe was seen by the vet and its wounds stitched, as she's in lamb and was in shock the vet was not able to administer a sedative so the poor girl was stitched without sedation.

"In the future, if dog owners witness an attack, even if they try to stop it, contact the police, even if anonymous, so the injured animal can be tended to quickly and isn't left to suffer as these were."

A police spokesman confirmed the force had been contacted regarding the incident.

He added: "We would like to remind members of the public that it is an offence contrary to the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 to allow a dog to worry livestock whilst on agricultural land.

"Please be aware of the following guidance: Keep your dog in sight at all times; ensure your dog does not stray off the path or area to which you have a right of access; ensure that dogs are kept on a lead (of two metres of less) at all times when near livestock."

As previously reported, dog attacks on sheep is a growing problem both locally and nationally. In Hampshire scores of sheep have been killed in the last couple of years.

In 2014, officers from Hampshire Police’s country watch team pleaded with residents to keep their dogs under control on farmland to prevent attacks on livestock.

Six ewes and nine lambs were killed and at least another 20 sheep were injured in an attack at Upper Farringdon, near Alton. A brown or brindle coloured boxer or mastiff was involved.

PC Michael Ames, from the force’s countrywatch team said: “This incident should act as a stark reminder as to why there is legislation in place outlining that dog owners must keep their animal under close control.

“Even the most well- behaved dog can revert to instinct when near livestock potentially causing distress, injury and loss of life.”

PC Ames also warned that dog owners, or the person responsible for the dog at the time, could be charged under the Dogs Act 1953 and may be sued for compensation by the farmer.

He added: “Landowners have the right, as a last resort, to shoot any dog worrying their livestock – so these owners are also putting their beloved pet at unnecessary risk."