Police are investigating a livestock worrying incident after an out-of-control dog is thought to have killed a sheep and injured two other ewes.

Dyfed-Powys Police’s Rural Crime Team said the attack happened in the Meifod area sometime between 10pm on Monday (September 9) and 10am on Tuesday (September 10)

Figures from NFU Mutual show that farm animals worth £2.4 million were being severely injured or killed in dog attacks in 2023, up nearly 30 per cent compared to the previous year.

Livestock worrying is a criminal offence where a dog attacks or chases livestock causing injury or suffering. A farmer is allowed to kill the dog if it’s worrying their farm animals. 

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Dyfed-Powys Police said: “This isn’t just a threat to a farmer or landowner’s livelihood, it’s also a dangerous situation for the animals involved, and could lead to more risk if the animals get onto the road.

“Always keep your dog under control around other animals and if you see a dog on the loose worrying animals, report it to us.”

Hannah Binns, NFU Mutual Rural Affairs Specialist, said: “We’ve heard reports from farmers about dog owners who regularly allow their pets to roam off-lead in the countryside, seemingly unaware of the carnage the dog could cause, who are then horrified when an attack happens.

“Complacency kills, though, and there have been incidences where dogs have chased, injured and killed sheep and the owner is powerless to stop it or nowhere to be seen.

“All dogs are capable of chasing, attacking and killing farm animals, regardless of breed, size or temperament.

“Farmers are living in fear of repeat attacks, which cause horrific and needless suffering to livestock and can traumatise all involved dealing with the aftermath.

“We’re urging all dog owners to be responsible for their pet and keep them on a lead when walked anywhere near livestock. If there is an attack, it is important people accept responsibility and report it, to a local farmer and the police, so that the injured animals are not left suffering in pain.”

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Anyone who has information that could help Dyfed-Powys Police with their investigation is urged to either phone 101, report it online at https://orlo.uk/CwGI9 , email 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk or send a direct message on Facebook quoting incident reference 24000785899.

People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired can text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.