An investigation is under way after seven sheep were found dead in an East Kintyre field.
The animals, which had been seen in the field near Carradale Golf Club the previous day, all in healthy condition, were discovered deceased on Tuesday (January 28).
Officers who attended the scene noted that the dead sheep, all ewes, had no visible physical injuries but detritus from bushes found in their fleeces suggests they may have been chased by a dog and police believe they later died from the stress this caused.
Constable Lynn Black said: “We urge all dog owners to keep their pets on leads when near fields containing livestock. It is the dog owner’s responsibility to ensure their dog is on a lead and under control when livestock is present, not doing this is a crime.
“Failing to keep your animal under control can result in a £40,000 or a 12-month prison sentence.
“The legislation is there to protect livestock from dog attacks and irresponsible dog owners can and will be prosecuted.”
Officers are appealing for anybody who witnessed the incident or with information about it to telephone 101, quoting incident number 0793 of January 28, or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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