Police warn on sheep killings
West Mercia Police have warned that a series of livestock thefts and killings in North Worcestershire may be linked to poaching or 'blooding' dogs in preparation for illegal fighting. Landowners, farmers and the public have been urged to be alert and to report suspicious activity.
Four sheep, some of which had bite wounds, have been found dead in recent weeks and lambs have been found restrained near gates in a manner that suggests planned collection by vehicle on three more occasions. West Mercia Police have also confirmed the sighting of a group of approximately five poachers carrying torches who fled when a farmer challenged them.
Commenting, Local Policing Officer PC Andy Wallace said “Some sheep have been found with their throats cut, attacked by dogs or tied up with boot laces or wire, ready for collection...The farmers are convinced this is the work of poachers who they say use the sheep to give their young terriers a taste of blood and to feed them. This is done to prepare the animals for illegal poaching or possibly even dog fighting.”
Anyone with information on this is invited to contact West Mercia Police by dialling 101 or, in event of an emergency, by 999. Information can also be communicated anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
