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A dozen sheep killed by dogs in Sussex
Sheep worrying incidents invariably rise in spring and summer as more dog owners exercise their pets in the countryside. (Stock photo)
Pair of dogs shot by farmer during incident 

A dozen sheep have been killed in a dog attack near Hastings, police have confirmed.

Two Alsatians, whose owner was not present, entered a field in Fairlight on 3 March and were shot by the farmer after killing 12 sheep.

Police have identified and spoken to the owner of the dogs.

Sergeant Tom Carter, of Sussex Police, said: “We urge people to keep their dogs on a lead while they are walking in rural areas and around livestock.

“So often in these incidents the owners are horrified by what their dogs have done, but they have to accept that even the most docile of pets can quickly turn into a killer given the opportunity.”

Sheep worrying incidents invariably rise in spring and summer as more dog owners exercise their pets in the countryside.

Sergeant Carter added: “A farmer can legally shoot a dog that is chasing livestock and seek compensation from the person responsible for the animal, so please don't take the risk.”

The investigation is ongoing and witnesses, or anyone with any information, are urged to call 101 and quote 327 of 03/03.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."