TWO sheep have had to be destroyed and several others were injured after being attacked by a dog on a Suffolk Wildlife Trust nature reserve near Sizewell.

By David Green

TWO sheep have had to be destroyed and several others were injured after being attacked by a dog on a Suffolk Wildlife Trust nature reserve near Sizewell.

The animals were part of the trust's conservation grazing flock used on the coastal “sandlings” heaths to conserve the special wildlife habitat.

The owner of the lurcher dog involved has been cautioned by police.

Following the incident Suffolk Wildlife Trust is urging people to exercise responsible dog ownership by keeping their dogs on leads when near livestock and reporting any stray dogs they see near livestock.

Sandlings manager, David Mason, said: “Two sheep had to be destroyed and another two taken back to Foxburrow Farm, Melton, for treatment following the attack.

“The staff involved have been distressed by the loss of the animals who suffered horrific injuries; especially as one had to be put down on site.

“Thankfully incidents like this are quite rare, but we are asking people to please keep their dogs under proper control.”

“Many people don't believe their dogs are capable of sheep worrying but sheep can be deeply distressed by even the mere presence of a dog running around unrestrained.

“If it happens often enough this can affect the way the sheep graze. This in turn affects the conservation of our Sandlings heaths as grazing by our flock is essential to the future of our beautiful heaths keeping them free of scrub and saplings.”

For more information contact Mr Mason or Jane Barber on 01394 388431.

david.green@eadt.co.uk