A LOCAL farmer, whose sheep have been savaged by dogs, has warned that he will shoot any animal seen attacking his flock.
Roger Hack, who has a 180-strong flock of lambs at Hurst Farm, Herriard, near Alton, has lost six sheep in two attacks and he is seeking public help in tracking down the culprit.
The first attack took place at the end of September when he found three sheep with their throats ripped out and more wounded. The flock had scattered into surrounding woodland and it took him several days to round them all up.
The most recent attack occurred last Tuesday when Mr Hack arrived to find one sheep dead and two seriously injured.
He believes the attacker must be a large dog which escapes from time to time or is let off the lead to run free when being walked along neighbouring public footpaths.
ÒItÕs not likely to be an animal living wild because the attacks are too infrequent,Ó said Mr Hack who is urging people walking dogs in the area to keep them on a lead.
ÒI am entitled to shoot if I see a dog savaging my sheep and I will do so,Ó he warned.
Mr Hack is asking anyone who may have any information about the attacks either to contact him on 01489 783556 or the police at Alton or Basing on 0845 045 4545