POLICE are warning dog owners to keep their pets on leads during walks in Exmoor after a sheep was attacked and injured by a dog in Luccombe last week.

The latest figures, for 2016, show a 50 per cent rise in dog attacks on livestock.

And PC Katy Drabble, of Avon and Somerset police rural crime team, said that farmers had the legal right to shoot dogs that worry or attack their animals

“Livestock worrying is a big issue, especially as we approach the lambing season, and we want to ensure that everyone gets to enjoy the countryside in peace,” she said.

“We welcome all visitors to Exmoor National Park but, if a dog attacks livestock, the owner could be responsible for offences including criminal damage and sheep-worrying, as well as potential prosecution for offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act.”

The rural crime team advises owners always to check for livestock in fields when walking dogs, to keep animals on a lead or under strict control, to shut gates and keep property secure if it is near where livestock is kept.

The only time a dog should be released is in the event of being chased by cattle. By restraining the dog in these circumstances, the dog owner puts themself at risk of being injured.