Six lambs and a pregnant ewe have died following a suspected livestock attack in Stirling.
The animals were attacked on a farm in Leny Feus area of Callander around 6pm on Tuesday, April 2.
Three lambs were found dead on the farm and a pregnant ewe had to be euthanised having collapsed from suspected exhaustion. A further three lambs were also found dead in a nearby field.
Officers believe they were attacked by at least one dog and are looking to speak to three men who were in the area at the time with a black and white cocker spaniel.
Dog owners have been reminded that they can face prosecution if their pet attacks livestock.
Inspector Andy Bushell said: “We all love seeing the lambs in the countryside at this time of year but unfortunately attacks by dogs on livestock can have devastating and appalling results.
“Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2021 owners can face prosecution if their pet attacks livestock and we are urging everyone to keep their dogs on a lead or under close control at all times and don’t take your dog into fields where there are lambs, calves or other young farm animals.
“We are asking everyone to be considerate when out and about in our rural areas. If you are a dog owner then it is your responsibility to keep them under control.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting the reference 1423 of April 3.
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country