Nine lambs die after being chased by a dog at Sussex farm

Two ewes and nine lambs from Saddlescombe Farm near Devil’s Dyke died after being chased by a dog on Sunday, 28 February.

Farmer Camilla Puzey said that while the dog did not attack the animals, the heavily pregnant sheep were so stressed the lambs aborted and the ewes died.

Camilla said she still wants people to visit and enjoy the countryside but reminded dog walkers to act responsibly

Camilla said: “This has been a distressing incident for both parties, us and the dog owner, it was an accident and a very unfortunate one that has had very sad circumstances.

“We are wanting to highlight the key message that just simply a dog chasing sheep is highly stressful for them, the dog doesn’t need to physically attack them to cause damage.

“The sheep are heavily pregnant at the moment, which has obviously meant the damage is more significant and distressing."

Nine lambs and two ewes died after being chased by a dog at the farm

Camilla and her husband Roly, who farm at the National Trust site, are keen for people to visit and enjoy the countryside but are urging dog walkers to keep their pets on leads.

“We are really keen for walkers to visit this beautiful area,” Camila said.

“But they must be responsible and respectful and see our animals as part of the wonderful South Downs landscape, but it is a working landscape.”

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In January, The Rural Crime Team at Sussex Police issued a warning to dog walkers to respect the countryside after a number of reports of dogs chasing sheep.

Several incidents of sheep worrying have been reported already so far this year across the county, in areas including Steyning, Hassocks, Pett Level, Burwash and Funtington.

Inspector Andrea Leahy from the RCT said: "If you are walking your dog in the countryside and are unfamiliar with the area, always keep your dog on the lead as there could be sheep and cattle nearby you aren't aware of.

"Sheep worrying is an offence and you could be liable for prosecution and heavy financial penalties if your dog is involved in an incident of this type.

"Always plan your route, stick to footpaths and please abide by any signs or rules. Don't remove them or deface them as they are there for a reason and also please do not remove stock fencing or damage it.

"If you arrive at a beauty spot or rural area and it is busy with other people, please leave the area and find a quieter area to exercise."