Reports of dogs worrying livestock in Suffolk have prompted appeals for pet owners to act responsibly.

Suffolk police said dog owners are responsible to keep their animals under control and failure to do so could be a criminal offence.

With many sheep heavily pregnant at this time of year, any distress caused by dogs could result in the loss of lambs and death of sheep, who can die from fright without any physical contact, causing loss of income for farmers.

Sgt Brian Calver of the Rural Crime Team said, “In order to avoid these situations arising, police would urge the public to take extra care when out and about and always ensure your dog is secured on a lead whenever you’re near livestock.

“We would ask that dog owners to share this message with as many people as possible to get the message across. Police do take this type of offending seriously and we will investigate any offences that are reported to us.”

Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore added: “We are very lucky to live in such a beautiful county but we need to remember that we all have a duty to act responsibly.

“We need to protect the countryside now and for future generations, so if you are out and about with your dog please make sure it is not a danger or nuisance to farm animals, horses, wildlife or other people.”