DOG owners are being warned to keep their canine companion on a lead when walking near livestock after three sheep were attacked and killed in Kingsclere.

Police received reports that two unaccompanied dogs gained access to farmland near the village around 2.30pm on February 11.

CCTV footage caught the dogs attempting to get into a pen containing chickens, but were unsuccessful and no chickens were harmed.

However, later on the same day, three sheep were found dead on the farm.

Two of the sheep received extensive injuries consistent with those of a dog attack. It is believed the third sheep died of shock.

The dogs are described as hounds, with one beige/tan in colour and the other one white.

PC Vincent Lane, of Hampshire Constabulary’s Country Watch team, said: “The injuries sustained are among the worst I have seen and I am concerned that the dogs’ owners do not appear to have been present throughout the incident.

“It is an offence contrary to the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 to allow a dog to worry livestock whilst on agricultural land.

“Ultimately there are no winners in such instances.

“The livestock typically sustain serious injuries or, as in this case, die in attacks by dogs.

“The farmer has unnecessary veterinary expenses or, in cases such as this, can lose valuable livestock.

“Typically, the dog owner will witness an often traumatic event and may even be injured in trying to intervene.

“Such incidents are entirely preventable with no more than the use of a lead. I would ask that dog owners are responsible and follow best practice whilst walking in the countryside or in and around farms to prevent any further unnecessary suffering and loss.”

Officers are advising dog owners who are walking their dog near livestock to make sure they are always in their sight, ensuring your dog does not stray off the path or area to which you have a right of access and that dogs are kept on a lead at all times when near livestock.

If anyone has any information regarding this incident they are asked to call PC Lane at Tadley police station on 101, quoting 44170054375.