POLICE have urged dog walkers to use a lead around fields with livestock due to numerous incidents of sheep being injured.

In conjunction with the National Sheep Association (NSA), Thames Valley Police will be placing signs around dog-walking areas which contain livestock to warn people.

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Releasing a statement online, police said: “Last year we had numerous incidents of dogs worrying sheep, and injuring them.

Oxford Mail: The NSA signs that will be placed around fields with livestockThe NSA signs that will be placed around fields with livestock (Image: TVP)

“Thankfully these incidents, whilst rare, do however have an impact on the animals and can negatively affect pregnant sheep and lambs especially.

“As a general rule if you and your dog pass through a field with livestock in, please use a lead on your dog, it is not enough to expect perfect recall.”