Tayside farmers on the edge as dog attacks on livestock becoming more frequent
The latest incident saw a ewe savaged by a dog at a farm on the outskirts of Dundee
Last updated 3rd May 2023
Warning: Story contains graphic images
Farmers in Tayside and Fife are calling on dog owners to be more responsible around livestock.
A different week, but another attack on a sheep has taken place, and this time on the outskirts of Dundee.
The ewe was found in a field at Balmydown Farm, Strathmartine, with significant injuries.
Warning: The following images are graphic
Farmer Alistair Hodnett says the attack happened at around 7:30am on Saturday.
He is urging dog owners to be more responsible when around livestock.
Mr Hodnett has said: "If anyone in the strathmartine/trottick/baldovan woods/emmock rd areas let their dog out for a run first thing and it came back with blood on or if you were out for a walk with your dog and lost it for a while we need to speak to you.
"We don't want to fall out, but the worry is your dog comes back again.
"This happened to a poor sheep, in its field with its lamb minding its own business.
"Much upset and trauma for the rest of the newly born lambs and mums too.
"3 legs stitched up and face twice".
READ MORE: In April, more than a dozen lambs died in a dog attack on a Fife farm
Police have opened up an investigation into what happened at Balmydown Farm on Saturday.
A Police Scotland spokesperson has said: "It has been reported that about this time, a dark-coloured dog was seen running through the field away from the sheep towards the perimeter fence.
"Enquiries are ongoing into the incident, and we would ask anyone who has information about the incident or who may know the dog or its owner to contact police.
"Information can be passed to officers via 101. Please quote reference number 1575 of Saturday, 29 April 2023, when calling. Alternatively, details can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111".
Earlier in the week it was also reported that a 26-year-old man has been arrested and charged after 93 pregnant ewes were chased by a dog in Auchterarder.
What action can you face for livestock worrying?
You can be fined for up to £40,000, or 12 months in prison, in extreme cases.
Farmers are also legally allowed to shoot dogs they find attacking their animals.