Dog attacks on livestock are a concern at any time of year but especially so now when ewes are heavy in lamb or already have young ones at foot.

The Manx NFU is reminding farmers of their rights when it comes to sheep worrying and advising on what they can do.

’If you find a dog chasing or worrying sheep, record it.

’Get as much information as you can and notify the police. The police are incredibly supportive in incidents like that,’ says Manx NFU secretary Sarah Comish.

The same goes for members of the public who see anything amiss.

They can also play a part in helping to keep animals safe in their fields by reporting any incident

Sarah says: ’Most dog owners are responsible and respect livestock and the countryside and we thank them for that.’

She goes on: ’Shooting a dog is legal but it’s a last resort which is devastating for all concerned and it can only be done when a dog is caught in the act of sheep worrying.’

A spokesman for the police said: ’If you see a dog actively attacking a sheep and animals are getting harmed, call 999.

’If it’s just a dog loose and unsupervised in a field then call your local police station or police headquarters.’