An alpaca and a sheep have been killed in suspected dog attacks on an Edinburgh farm.
Police have been called in after the deaths in Currie. A Police Scotland spokesperson issued a statement after the body of the alpaca was found over the weekend.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 5.55 pm on Saturday, 15 October 2022, a report was made to police that an alpaca had been killed in what was believed to be a dog attack at a farm in Kirkgate, Currie, Edinburgh. Enquiries into that, and the death of a sheep on the same farm, are continuing."
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The alpaca was killed in a field next to Lymphoy House. The area is popular with dogs attacking and worrying livestock with officers warning owners they can be fined up to £40,000 or even sent to prison for up to 12 months if their dog attacks or worries livestock.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2021 came into force on November 5, 2021 to deal with the rising issue of out-of-control dogs attacking and worrying livestock.
Under this law, the term livestock includes a number of animals including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses to name a few. Alpacas and llamas fall under livestock too.
Police Scotland write on their website that “It's important for dog owners to be aware that livestock are valuable assets and any harm to them could significantly affect the livestock owner’s livelihood.“
The Scottish SPCA have also issued many reminders and warnings over the last few years about keeping dogs under control after attacks on livestock and wildlife.
In April 2020, Scottish SPCA animal rescue officer Amy Stirton said: “Pandemic or not, people should not let their dog off-lead if they cannot control them. I have now attended two deer in as many weeks which have been brought down by dogs.”
Another plea to keep dogs under control was published in October 2021, after a badger died from a dog attack. Animal rescue officer, Lindsay Kerr said “Being attacked by a dog is a horrendous way for this badger to die. She will have been extremely distressed and suffering massive amounts of pain and fear.”
“We would urge local dog owners to ensure their dogs are kept on a lead around wild animals at all times and that they make sure they have sight of their dog and can reliably recall it when needed if it is off lead.”
The SSPCA wrote “If your dog does attack a wild animal by accident then please contact us immediately so we can provide treatment to the animal as soon as possible.
Anyone who finds an animal in distress can call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 in the strictest confidence.”
If anyone has any information about the alpaca incident, they can contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number: 2537
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