PRISON and a large fine is what irresponsible dog owners face if they are found worrying livestock.

Dorset Police received 40 reported incidents of dogs attacking livestock last year alone.

In 11 of these cases, the dog owners were caught and dealt with. Punishments included Dog Behaviour Contracts, compensation to the farmer and court prosecution.

Now, police are sending a stern warning to dog owners that livestock worrying - which cost farmers more than £1m last year, according to NFU Mutual - is a criminal offence and if they flout the law, they will be punished.

West Dorset has seen several horrific attacks in recent months.

Just two weeks ago, a ewe was savaged in a vicious attack at Kennon Farm in Burton Bradstock.

Laura Ferrett, whose parents own the farm, said: "Had this been a lamb, it would have been killed. Everyone thinks they have a good dog that will never do anything like this but it keeps happening."

Prior to that, four lambs were killed and a ewe chased off a cliff by an out-of -control dog at the Golden Cap. Farmer Dean Exton, of Downhouse Farm, said it had happened to him many times before.

"You feel angry and annoyed," he said. "We are a business and of course this will effect us."

The penalty for livestock worrying can be six months in prison and a £1,000 fine.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "If you’re out walking the dog on agricultural land and it worries livestock you are committing the offence of livestock worrying. We’re asking dog owners to be responsible when out enjoying our countryside.

"Keep all dogs on a lead around any livestock and remember to always release the lead if chased by cattle and get yourself to safety."

Worrying is traditionally thought of as a dog biting or attacking livestock but it also covers:

n Chasing livestock in such a way it can cause injury or suffering - in the case of ewes, this includes abortion or loss or reduction in the number of offspring she has.

n Not having a dog on a lead or under close control when close by, or in, a field or enclosure with livestock.

West Dorset's farmers can use a livestock worrying poster around their farms to make people aware of these laws.

For more information, visit dorset.police.uk or email ruralcrimeteam@dorset.pnn.police.uk

Remember to call 101 if you see anything suspicious or if you see a dog worrying or attacking livestock please call Dorset Police on 999.