A farmer shot and killed four dogs after a sheep died in an attack in Dumfries and Galloway.

Police said officers received a report of a pack of dogs roaming around unaccompanied in the Moffat area on Sunday morning.

The force said one sheep was killed and another attacked.

Four of the dogs were shot and destroyed, while six others were secured and taken into the care of local kennels.

In Scotland, owners of dogs that attack or worry livestock can be fined up to £40,000 or face a jail sentence of up to a year.

In certain circumstances, landowners can shoot dogs if they are attacking or causing distress to their animals.

Police Scotland said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

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A force spokesperson said: “Around 8.40am on Sunday 9 July 2023, officers were made aware of a sheep being killed and another being attacked in the Moffat area after a number of dogs were found roaming unaccompanied.

“Four of the dogs were shot and destroyed as a result of this incident.

“Officers attended and safely secured six of the dogs who are being cared for by local kennels.

“Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”

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