Police are appealing for information after two dogs were witnessed chasing sheep in a field in Woodchester.
The incident, reported on Thursday, involved two dogs described as German Shepherds or Alsatians. It is believed that two pregnant ewes sustained dog bites during the incident.
The man with the dogs was described as white and wearing a distinctive scarf.
Stroud Rural Crime officer PC Mawdsley has been in contact with the caller and visited the location on Friday to meet with them. Officers are now keen to hear from the man pictured or from anyone who recognises him.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police online by completing the following form and quoting incident 188 of 23 October: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/”
Livestock worrying is a criminal offence and occurs when a dog attacks or chases farmed animals. This includes dogs running after livestock, causing them distress or injury, particularly when ewes are pregnant or there are young lambs in the flock.
As well as being a serious animal welfare concern, livestock worrying can cause significant financial loss to farmers.
Dog owners are reminded to: Keep dogs on a lead and under control around livestock. Ensure dogs cannot escape from homes or gardens onto farmland. Clean up after dogs, as faeces left on grazing land can carry diseases that are fatal to livestock.
Anyone who witnesses livestock worrying is encouraged to take photos or video evidence where safe to do so and report it to police immediately.
