DOG owners have been warned to keep their pets on a lead as lambing season approaches.

In 2016 there were 31 incidents of sheep worrying - which includes attacking or chasing livestock - reported to Cumbria Police.

It also received 44 complaints of sheep attacks last year, and in half of these incidents one or more sheep were killed.

Superintendent Gary Slater said: “Worrying is a very serious issue and one that the police take seriously. It can lead to significant consequences for sheep and therefore farmers, and can be so easily prevented by owner’s keeping their dogs on a lead.

“The issue of sheep worrying is more pertinent to highlight at this time of year, as lambing season approaches. A dog does not have to physically attack livestock to cause harm – even chasing them can cause distress and easily cause a pregnant sheep to miscarry lambs.

“We have provided posters for farmers to display to remind dog owners of their responsibilities, and we will be taking a proactive approach and positive action against those that allow the offence to occur.”

One farmer who knows all to well about the problem is Ian Calvert, of Garsdale, who was forced to put some of his sheep down after becoming the victim of worrying.

He said: “It is soul destroying, and completely out of my control. There is a footpath which goes across my field and I purposely don’t put my best sheep there because I can’t control other people’s dogs.

“I understand that dogs don’t do it on purpose but I won’t tolerate it anymore.”

Police have the power to seize a dog to prevent worrying, and an owner can be fined up to £1,000 for the offence.

It is an offence to allow a dog to worry livestock and in some circumstances landowners have a defence in law to shoot dogs that are endangering their livestock.

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall said:

“Sheep worrying is an issue that is often raised by members of the public when I am out and about, which is why I am keen to get the message out there about the need for people to take responsibility for their dogs.

“People need to understand that the worrying of livestock can have devastating consequences for animals and for farmers and their businesses.”