Compensation for farmers after fatal dog attack

Multiple farmers in South Warwickshire were affected after two dogs fatally attacked several sheep

A group of farmers in South Warwickshire have received nearly £11,500 in compensation after their sheep were killed in an attack by two dogs who were not on a lead.

The attack, which happened in December last year, led to the death of several sheep and affected multiple farmers, Warwickshire Police said.

The owner of the dogs was located after an investigation and made a "full and frank admission" which meant they avoided prosecution, the force added.

Instead, the owner complied with a series of conditions, including paying compensation and specific measures in relation to their dogs.

The force described the attack as a "devastating livestock worrying incident" and said it had a "massive impact" on the community.

The shock led to further damage and losses for the farmers, as it caused birth complications for their ewes who were carrying lambs, as well as the cost of repairs to their property and the removal of affected livestock.

The force said a criminal prosecution would have likely resulted in a "maximum fine of £1,000" and each farmer would have needed to pursue a civil claim to receive full compensation.

It added that "justice had been delivered" but urged dog owners to keep their pets under control when near livestock to prevent future incidents.