A PIG farmer last night raised concerns about the way dog attacks are handled by the authorities after more than 40 of his livestock were savaged.

Mark Hayward had 18 of his animals killed and another 23 wounded by what he believes was a dog at his farm in Campsea Ashe, near Wickham Market. He reported the incident when it happened two weeks ago on Saturday, April 17, but is disappointed with the response of the authorities.

He said neither the police nor the RSPCA seem to be able to take further action despite him informing them of a potential culprit.

Mr Hayward, of Ashmoor Hall Farm, which trades under the name Dingley Dell Pork, said: “It is now two weeks after the event and so far they have done absolutely nothing about it.

“My main concern is that we highlighted a potential animal and neither the RSPCA or the police have been able to do anything.

“There just doesn’t seem to be a mechanism in place for dealing with it. What if, in three months’ time, that particular dog savages a child? By then it will be too late.”

An RSPCA spokeswoman said they sympathised with Mr Hayward but the incident was classed as an issue of criminal damage and would therefore be referred to the police.

“However, we are always happy to assist,” she added. “We would urge any dog owners to act responsibly and ensure that their pets are kept in a secure location so that they cannot be able to get out and attack other animals.”

A spokeswoman for Suffolk police said: “Police initially attended and are looking into the incident but at this stage it is unclear whether there are any criminal offences. An appointment has been made for a police officer to visit the owner of the pigs this weekend.”