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)
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.
Livestock keepers are being urged to stay vigilant for Bluetongue (BTV-3) following confirmation of the disease in a ewe. The case, confirmed in Staffordshire on 23 June 2026, represents the first confirmed case of infection this summer.
