Witness appeal after dog attack on livestock in Salisbury

Please note, a graphic image of the livestock worrying incident is displayed in the below article.

The Wiltshire Rural Crime Team are appealing for information after a Romney ewe was found to have injuries consistent with a dog attack close to the Old Shaftesbury Drove, near to Salisbury Racecourse. It is likely this incident took place between 11am on Sunday 22 and 7am on Monday 23 December 2024. 

The injuries to the ewe’s throat and mouth were so severe that it sadly had to be euthanised. Later that week, another ewe was found deceased with similar injuries, although we cannot say at this stage whether the two incidents happened at the same time.

Livestock worrying is a serious issue which greatly impacts farming and smallholding communities. Emotionally and financially, livestock worrying can be devastating for those affected by it, and it can be avoided if dog owners act responsibly.

With this area of Salisbury being popular with dog walkers, we are appealing for any witnesses to help identify the individual(s) responsible. Please call 101 or visit our website to report any information, quoting the crime reference number 54240151189. Thank you for your co-operation.