An urgent appeal for information has been launched by the RSPCA after a sheep was found with “horrendous, gory injuries”, including its ears both ripped off in a suspected dog attack.
RSPCA officers were alerted after a member of the public spotted the sheep on a banking near the Trehir Civic Amenity Site towards the A649. The sheep was found on Sunday, September 9.
The animal welfare charity has said following veterinary care, the sheep is recovering from its ordeal.
RSPCA Inspector Izzi Hignell said: “This poor sheep was found in an awful way – with horrendous, gory injuries, including both ears completely ripped off.
“This seems very likely to have been a dog attack. The sheep’s injuries are consistent with being mauled by a dog, which would have been a dreadful experience for the poor animal.
“Dog owners need to remember that they can be prosecuted if their dog worries sheep like this.
“The RSPCA continues to remind dog owners that an easy way to prevent such horrible events is to keep dogs on a lead around livestock. This simple step would likely have spared this poor sheep immense pain and stress.
“We do not know if this was a deliberate act on the part of the dog’s owner, or an accident – but we’re urging anyone with information to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”