A serious dog attack on a flock of sheep near Tathwell, just outside Louth, has left 34 animals dead and prompted fresh warnings to dog owners about keeping pets under control in the countryside.
According to Lincolnshire Police, the incident happened in a field off Haugham Road on 13 March and involved a number of in‑lamb ewes that either died at the scene or had to be put down later because of their injuries and distress. Officers have reminded owners that they can face prosecution and tougher penalties if their dog worries or attacks livestock, and are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Lincolnshire Police Appeal
Lincolnshire Police are appealing for information following a serious livestock attack in rural Lincolnshire. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday 13 March in a field to the west of Haugham Road, near Tathwell.Anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, is urged to call 101, quoting occurrence 26000160007. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers.
Speaking to the media, local farmers described the attack as both financially devastating and emotionally draining, highlighting that each ewe represented not just the animal loss but also future lambs and income.
Some have called for stronger awareness among walkers and visitors around Louth about the simple steps that can prevent this kind of incident: keeping dogs on a lead near livestock, sticking to paths, and acting quickly if a dog gets out of control.
The case has struck a nerve in the rural community around Louth, where farming underpins much of the local economy and identity. Police and farmers alike are hoping that by publicising the scale of the damage, similar attacks can be avoided as more people get out into the countryside over spring and summer.
Source coverage: BBC News reports on the investigation and the wider farmer reaction to the attack near Tathwell.
Sources:
- Farmer ‘not surprised’ by dog-attack sheep deaths.
- ‘Devastating’ dog attack leaves 34 sheep dead.
- Lincolnshire Police Appeal for information.
If you know anything:
If you live locally and have any information about the dog or its owner, please do the right thing and contact Lincolnshire Police on 101, quoting occurrence 26000160007.
Rural Dog Attacks And Sheep Welfare FAQs
What happened in the sheep attack near Louth?
The incident near Louth involved a dog attacking a flock of pregnant sheep, leading to the death of 34 animals. Police are treating it as a serious case of livestock worrying, and the financial and emotional impact on the farmer is expected to be significant.
What is classed as livestock worrying in the UK?
Livestock worrying is when a dog chases, attacks or causes distress to farm animals such as sheep, cattle or horses. Even if no animal is physically injured, prolonged chasing or harassment can cause shock, miscarriage and long term welfare issues for the flock.
What penalties can dog owners face for livestock attacks?
Dog owners can face unlimited fines, compensation claims and in some cases a court can order the dog to be seized or put down. Under recent legislation, police have stronger powers to enter land, detain dogs and investigate incidents that involve sheep worrying or attacks.
How should I walk my dog near fields with sheep?
The safest approach is to keep your dog on a short lead anywhere near livestock, even if it normally has good recall. If sheep move towards you, it is usually better to let go of the lead so the dog can move away, then regain control once you are clear of the animals.
What should I do if my dog chases or attacks sheep?
If your dog chases or attacks sheep, you should regain control as quickly and calmly as possible and remove the dog from the field. You should then contact the farmer or landowner and the police, because early reporting can help with animal welfare, evidence gathering and resolving liability.
Can farmers legally shoot a dog that is worrying sheep?
Farmers in the UK have a legal right in limited circumstances to shoot a dog that is actively worrying or attacking livestock, if there is no other reasonable way to protect the animals. This is always considered a last resort, and owners remain responsible for any damage caused and may still face criminal or civil action.
Why are dog attacks on sheep so damaging for farmers?
Dog attacks on sheep are damaging because they cause direct loss of animals, unborn lambs and future income, as well as veterinary costs and disposal fees. Repeated worrying can also affect flock behaviour, breeding performance and the mental health of farmers who rely on those animals for their livelihood.