A SHEEP had to be put down after it was mauled by a dog at a Hampshire beauty spot.

The sheep was attacked at St Catherine’s Hill Nature reserve, Winchester, and the animal suffered what have been described as “horrific” injuries to its face.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust were told of the attack by a member of the public, who witnessed it.

They say that the sheep was unable to eat and drink and was at high risk of infection, so the decision was taken to put the animal down.

Grazing Enterprise and Farms Manager at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust said: Laura Fairs said: “The majority of dog walkers are responsible, looking out for the livestock and wildlife in the countryside that they visit.

“However horrific incidents like this show that there are still people who allow their dogs to chase and attack livestock, and would rather leave wounded animals behind to suffer rather than come forward.

“The images are disturbing, but we want to show what the impact of out of control dogs is upon our livestock and the countryside.

“Our thanks go to the member of the public who spotted the injured animal and reported it to us. We urge dog owners to put their dog on a lead when walking near livestock, and other visitors to be vigilant.”