### Police Urgently Seeking Dog Owners Following Fatal Attack on Lamb in Vale of Glamorgan
South Wales Police have issued a public appeal after a lamb was killed in a distressing encounter involving a dog at Ogmore-by-Sea, in the Vale of Glamorgan. Officials are emphasising the gravity of the situation and urging the dog’s owners to come forward as a priority.
The incident, which took place on Sunday at around 3pm, has prompted concern from both law enforcement and the local community. According to police, the dog, whose image has been released to the public, was involved in the fatal attack. Authorities hope that by disseminating the animal’s photograph, someone will identify the owners and help progress the investigation.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police outlined the seriousness of the event, stating that the priority now is to identify the individual responsible for the dog. Police are keen to stress that this is not a minor matter, and are treating the investigation with the utmost concern due to the impact on local farmers and livestock.
As part of their appeal, police have reiterated key advice for dog owners visiting countryside areas. “It is essential for anyone walking their dog within proximity of farmland or open countryside to ensure their pets are securely on a lead,” they said. “Sheep worrying, which includes attacks or harassment by dogs, is a criminal offence and can have devastating consequences for livestock – particularly during lambing season.” The police emphasised that even well-trained pets can behave unpredictably, underlining the importance of caution.
The incident has sparked reaction from eyewitnesses. One woman, who was walking her own dogs nearby with her partner at the time, shared her account on social media. She described the episode as “horrific,” noting that despite the best efforts of bystanders to intervene, it was not possible to prevent the fatality. “We did everything we could to try and scare the dog away, but our main concern had to be keeping ourselves and our pets safe,” she explained.
Those with knowledge about the attack, or who might recognise the dog or its owners, are being urged to contact South Wales Police directly. The force has provided reference number 2500188739 for the investigation and is requesting that anyone with information call 101 without delay.
Incidents of sheep worrying and attacks by dogs are a significant concern in rural communities across Wales and the wider UK. According to agricultural and animal welfare organisations, such incidents not only result in distress and financial loss to farmers but also raise concerns around responsible pet ownership. The law is explicit in its expectations, and failure to control a dog around livestock can result in prosecution.
Local residents and rural groups have echoed the police’s message in response to the attack, urging those who venture through farmland to be vigilant. This latest incident, while tragic, serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when dogs are allowed to roam off-lead near vulnerable animals.
South Wales Police continue to investigate and are working closely with local landowners to ensure incidents of this nature are dealt with appropriately and that further tragedies are prevented. Officers are hoping that a swift resolution can bring some reassurance to the farming community, which plays an integral role in the region’s rural economy.
Anyone with further details is encouraged to help bring closure to those affected by coming forward, either by direct phone call or through the usual police channels. As the search for information continues, the broader call is clear: dog owners must act responsibly to protect both their pets and the countryside they enjoy.