Dorset Police news site

Officers are appealing for information and issuing advice to dog owners following a series of sheep worrying incidents in West Dorset.

Dorset Police has received three reports of livestock worrying involving sheep being injured in the Toller Porcorum area.

The first incident reportedly occurred on the evening of Wednesday 19 February 2025 and saw two sheep injured.

A further incident, involving three injured sheep, was reported on Friday 28 February 2025 and the third incident, which saw two rams have their ears bitten off, was reported on Thursday 13 March 2025.

Police Constable Kate Schofield, of Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We are continuing to investigate these matters and I would urge anyone with information to please contact us.

“These incidents all occurred in the Toller Porcorum area and I would urge anyone who has witnessed dogs out of control around livestock in this area to please report this to us.

“With lambing season in full swing and more animals out grazing, we want to also take this opportunity to remind people to keep their dogs under control around livestock.

“All animals, whether that be livestock or pets deserve to safely enjoy the countryside, and dog owners have a duty of care.

“If incidents do occur, we would encourage dog owners to do the right thing and report the matter to the farmer, a vet or the police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250036158. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.