Aberdeenshire crime: 11 sheep found dead following suspected dog attack
Police have warned dog walkers about the dangers of livestock worrying.
Police are appealing for information after 11 sheep were found dead in Aberdeenshire following a suspected dog attack.
They said the deaths are being treated as “a possible incident of sheep worrying” and are urging anyone who may have witnessed the attack to come forward.
The attack happened in Longhaugh, in Aberchirder, between January 9 and 10.
Constable Irvine, the force’s Wildlife Officer, said: "We are asking for members of the public to come forward if they saw a dog off lead in the area at the time, or have information which may assist us in our enquiries.
“At this time it is not clear what has attacked these sheep, and our enquiries are ongoing to establish what has happened, but any information is greatly appreciated.”
Mr Irvine urged dog walkers to stay aware of the risks associated with sheep worrying, and keep dogs on the lead in farmland areas.
He said: “Livestock worrying is the phrase used when a dog attacks or worries livestock animals in rural and farmland areas.
“This crime usually takes place in the countryside and is a particular problem when dogs, even those that are well trained, are off their leads or are roaming without an owner or person in charge with them.
“In doing so, they often scare or attack livestock animals.
“This can have a serious effect on the animals, for example, injuries and stress can cause sheep in lamb to suffer abortion or miscarriage, livestock becoming desperate in their attempts to escape can injure themselves in doing so, or lambs chased by dogs can become separated from their mothers and die of starvation or hypothermia.”
Anyone with information is requested to contact Police Scotland on 101 and quote incident number PS-20260110-1753.