Dog owners in west Fife have been warned to ensure they control their pets following a spate of sheep worrying incidents in the Oakley and Saline areas which have resulted in the death of 15 animals.
Police say the sheep had either been killed or had to be humanely destroyed in three separate incidents over the past fortnight.
The incidents are being investigated by police, having been reported by the farmers concerned.
PC Ian Laing is Fife Constabulary wildlife and environmental crime co-ordinator. He said, “Over and above the obvious distress these animals suffered, there are economic implications for the owners of these sheep.
“We are weeks away from the lambing season and the lambs will be particularly vulnerable to an uncontrolled dog.
“The stark reality for dog owners is that farmers are permitted to take such measures as are necessary to protect their livestock from injury and that may mean people losing their dog.
“A police inquiry may lead to the dog owners concerned being reported to the procurator fiscal,” he added.
“All responsible owners know to keep their dog on a lead when in the vicinity of livestock and it is unfortunate that we have to reinforce that message in these circumstances.”