Sheep have been attacked and killed by dogs let off their leads in the Highlands.

A number of sheep have suffered serious injuries in recent months and one died of its wounds.

Police Scotland has urged dog owners to keep their pets on a lead near livestock.

Sergeant Stephen Mezals said:“Farmers and crofters who keep livestock play a vital role in providing a sustainable community in areas like Caithness.

"Any stress caused to these animals by the presence of dogs, and any attacks on them have a detrimental effect on this sustainability as well as being harmful to the farmers' and crofters' livelihoods.

"Caithness has some amazing scenery and I would never discourage anyone from getting out to enjoy it.

"However, I would advise anyone walking their dogs near livestock to keep them on a lead at all times.”