POLICE have issued an appeal after three pregnant ewes were killed, believed to be by a dog.
The attack took place at around 7.30 am on Wednesday, April 1, in a field off Malthouse Lane in Upper Chute.
The dog, thought to be loose, also injured several other sheep.
Details of the attack suggest it’s likely the dog would have returned covered in blood.
It's believed the dog may have been taken for a walk off-lead in the area, or escaped from a nearby home.
Police are now urging the public to help with their investigation.
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A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: "Due to the injuries caused to the ewes, it’s likely the dog would have returned covered in blood.
"If you have any information regarding this, please call 101 or email 70787@wiltshire.police.uk, quoting reference 54260038839.
"We would like to remind dog owners that it is crucial to keep control of your dog around livestock, even if you can usually trust it to return when called."
Guidance also stresses the importance of ensuring homes are secure enough to prevent dogs from escaping and getting into fields with livestock.
Laws under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act deem it an offence for any dog to attack or chase sheep or other livestock, causing them suffering, abortion, or loss of produce.
The law also states that dogs must not be at large (meaning they must be either on a lead or under close control) in a field or enclosure where there are sheep.
Following amendments to this law, dog owners can face an unlimited fine, and the police have the authority to seize dogs that are suspected of worrying livestock.
The police can also order DNA samples or enter premises to identify dogs involved in such incidents.
The police have issued a firm reminder to call 999 immediately if you witness sheep worrying.
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