Dog walkers are being warned to keep their pets under control - as police remind the public that owners could be held responsible for animal attacks.

Last year there were over 150 crimes recorded across Devon and Cornwall, linked to livestock worrying offences.

The number of these incidents usually increases during the lambing season, as more people take to the countryside after winter.

The statement comes after a pregnant ewe was attacked by a dog near Holne in Dartmoor, leading to the animal having to be put down due to the severity of the injuries.

PC Phil Johnson, from the Teignmouth Crime Hub, said: "We are currently investigating a particularly nasty dog attack on a pregnant ewe this week near Holne in Dartmoor, which led to the animal having to be put down due to the severity of the injuries it suffered. This incident took place at around midday on Tuesday February 14.

“The dogs responsible were being walked off the lead in the area and therefore the owner was not in control. We are urging for the dog owner to come forward and to immediately call 101 quoting crime number CR/011095/17.

“Not only is this incredibly upsetting for the animals, this is also deeply distressing to the farmer. This particular farmer has had his livestock attacked 10 times in the past year and all of these incidents are preventable.

“Whilst the images we have released in connection to the Holne sheep attack are distressing, it is important to highlight what can happen if your dog is out of control.

“If your dog attacks livestock, you as the owner could be responsible for this crime. We see a rise in these incidents during the spring and lambing season, and this is when livestock are at their most vulnerable.

“Not only could you be breaking the law, a farmer has the right to protect his livestock. If your dog is roaming free and bothering animals on the farmers land, your dog could be shot. On top of that, you could also be liable for the costs of the damage your dog has caused to the livestock if the farmer wished to take civil action against you.

“No matter how well trained or docile your pet is, the temptation to chase is a natural instinct that is sometimes hard for a dog to suppress. The advice to dog owners is simple: exercise responsibly and keep your dog on a lead when near livestock.”