*Graphic images*: Appeal after sheep attack

Graphic images: Appeal after sheep attack

Dear Resident,

Can you help? We're appealing for witnesses after five sheep were attacked by dogs in the Smithy Fen area of Cottenham this morning (9 January).

At just after 9am a witness reported hearing sheep stampeding across a field and discovered three dogs attacking the livestock.

The dogs were described as a black German Shepherd with a silvery neck, a medium-sized brown curly-haired dog (similar to a Cockapoo or Labradoodle) and one small terrier.

The witness intervened, causing the dogs to flee in the direction of Lockspit Hall Drove, towards the B1049, where they disappeared.

Initial checks suggest that at least five sheep have been injured, with two potentially fatally wounded.

PC James Lee, of the force’s Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT), said: “This incident has been very upsetting for the owner of the sheep, and we would like to thank the witness who intervened and stopped any further harm coming to the livestock.

“Livestock worrying is a criminal offence under UK law, and prevention relies on responsible dog ownership and proactive measures by farmers and landowners.

“An investigation has been launched and we would urge anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, to get in touch with us.

“Please call police on 999 if livestock are being attacked or call 101 to report information after any incidents have taken place, or to report any intelligence. Providing accurate location details, using OS grid references or What3Words in remote areas, is also incredibly helpful.”

Advice for dog owners

Always use a lead: Keep dogs on a lead near livestock, even if they are well-trained

Follow the Countryside Code: Observe local signage and seasonal rules (e.g mandatory leads on open access land between 1 March and 31 July)

Secure your property: Ensure fencing and gates prevent dogs from escaping

Be aware of surroundings: Only allow dogs off lead in areas free of livestock

Report incidents: If your dog is involved, call 101 immediately

Advice for farmers and landowners

Install clear signage: Remind walkers of legal requirements

Manage field access: Position troughs away from public paths

Improve physical security: Maintain fencing and consider deterrents like electric fencing

Use technology: CCTV or trail cameras can deter and record evidence

Preserve evidence: Photograph injuries and cover carcasses to retain DNA evidence

Anyone who saw what happened or has any information about this morning’s livestock worrying incident should report it through the force website, quoting investigation reference 35/2056/26. Call us on 101 if you do not have internet access.

Please do not reply to this message or use eCops to report information.

Kind regards,

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Message Sent By
Tara Cox
(Police, Communications Officer, Corporate Communications)