Pregnant sheep mauled to death

HORRIFIC . . . the mauled sheep

THIS horrific picture of a pregnant sheep mauled to death by a dog highlights the plight of Saddleworth hill farmers at the start of lambing season.

The pitiful carcass of a two-year-old pregnant ewe was found by Darren Hough at his 265-acre farm at Wharmton.

The ewe suffered severe bites to its face, legs, back and shoulders. Mr Hough, who made the grim discovery near Saddleworth golf course, said: “The ewe was due to give birth on March 11.

“I didn’t see the attack, but with the damage done I’d say it was a big dog - which must have been with someone or it would have damaged more sheep. The poor ewe must have had an horrific death.”

The National Sheep Association and RSPCA have teamed up in a nationwide campaign highlighting sheep deaths and injuries.

Phil Stocker, NSA chief executive, said: “A growing number of our members continue to tell us of some horrendous attacks they have suffered to their livestock. It’s not only the harrowing injuries which out-of-control dogs have inflicted, but also losses they have suffered as a result of dogs simply chasing livestock.”

The NSA has been collecting evidence of sheep-worrying incidents highlighting the damage a pet can inflict when it is left unsupervised.

Matthew Gummerson, the NFU’s Saddleworth agent, said: “The picture of the dead ewe is shocking.

“At this time of year it is particularly key to keep dogs on leads around livestock. We’re fast approaching lambing time and a dog just chasing a ewe can cause her to abort her lambs.”