Farmer has spoken out after finding animal so badly mauled it had to be put down
Dog owners are being warned to keep their pets under control after a lamb suffered a fatal attack near Ottery St Mary.
Lesley Carter, of Bishops Court Farm, said the animal was found so badly mauled it had to be put down and added the way they farm the land is increasingly being put at risk.
The incident happened in a field adjacent to the public footpath from Ottery to Tipton St John between 6pm on Sunday (August 14) and 7am on Monday (August 15).
Police said the lamb’s injuries were consistent with being attacked by a dog and have issued an appeal for anyone with information to come forward.
The Carters have been farming for three generations and Lesley’s dad, Andrew - along with his wife and children - runs more than 500 ewes and lambs in the fields adjacent to the riverside walk.
PC Philip Wilcox said: “Incidents like these are very distressing for the farmer and animals. Owners must ensure their pets are not allowed into any fields with livestock. Walkers in the countryside should keep their dogs in sight and always on a lead whenever near farm animals.
“People who live near farms must make sure their pets are secure in their homes or gardens to prevent any attacks on sheep and other livestock, especially overnight.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police by email: 101@dc.police.uk or call 101 quoting reference CR/056490/16.
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