SHEEP worrying incidents ahead of the lambing season has prompted police to warn dog owners of their responsibilities when out in the countryside.


It follows two incidents in which dogs have been off their leash and have attacked or chased ewes, many of which are pregnant at this time of year.

 
One of them happened on farmland off Brigsteer Road, Kendal, on February 18, when a dog worried a sheep by chasing it.

The dog stopped when it was yelled at by the farmer and the owner then apologised.


The other incident happened in a field at Rydal, near Ambleside, where a ewe was injured following a dog attack the day earlier. 


Police said the dog was running free after the owner claimed their ankle was injured.

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Cumbria Police have provided posters for farmers to remind dog owners of their responsibilities.

A police spokesman said dog walkers should keep to the footpaths and ensure they have their dog on a lead and under control.

Owners of dogs worrying livestock can be fined up to £1,000.