Dog Attack Leaves Sheep Seriously Injured in Osmotherley

Osmotherley: On Sunday, January 26, two dogs were spotted running loose. They were at the Cod Beck “sheep wash” car park. The dogs scared the sheep, and one attacked, injuring a sheep badly.

The attacking dog was a light brown crossbreed. North Yorkshire Police are asking the dog’s owner to come forward. They also want anyone who saw the incident or has dashcam footage to help.

A member of the public tried to intervene during the attack. They used a stick to get the dog off the sheep. Police thanked this person for their quick action.

Many sheep are pregnant this time of year. Even if a dog doesn’t touch them, being chased can cause serious harm.

If you have information, email Chloe.Nixon-Longstaff@northyorkshire.police.uk or call 101. Mention reference number 12250015506. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.

Police remind dog owners to keep their pets on a lead around livestock. Sheep worrying is a crime. In some cases, farmers can shoot dogs that attack their animals.

Here are some tips from North Yorkshire Police for dog owners:

• Check for livestock before letting your dog off the lead.
• Keep your dog under control around livestock.
• Be extra careful during lambing season; always use a lead.
• Don’t let inexperienced people walk your dog.
• Remember, fields can change quickly; livestock may appear suddenly.
• Ensure your dog can’t escape your property if you live near farms.
• Farmers can shoot dogs attacking their livestock in certain situations.