DOG-WALKERS risk their pets being shot by farmers if they let them chase sheep.

Police are reminding dog-walkers to keep their animals on leads after a farmer in the Church Lane area of Hooe lost several sheep, killed by dogs not on their leads.

PC Darren McCann said dog-owners need to know that sheep-worrying is an offence and that dogs may be shot by farmers.

He said: “Even docile dogs at home, are capable of chasing sheep, which may result in a pregnant sheep aborting its lamb or having to be put to sleep as a result of sustained injuries.

“Livestock are a farmer’s livelihood and dead and injured sheep can cause significant financial loss and great upset.

“Keep your dogs under control at all times.”