POLICE are appealing for information after a pet sheep was savaged in the back garden of her owner's home.

Five-year-old Peggy was attacked by at least one dog and suffered serious damage to her tail and leg as well as losing part of her fleece.

Police investigating the incident in Walkford Lane, New Milton , said the animal's injuries required 25 stitches.

A police spokesman said: “Peggy was grazing in the garden when she was attacked from behind.

“It is thought that a dog or dogs carried out the attack. If so, the dog's owner would have been aware of the incident because of the large amount of blood on the dogs.

“Police want to hear from anyone who witnessed the attack or who saw a blood-covered dog or dogs in the area on the day of the attack.”

The incident occurred on September 16. Ring PC Alex Willson on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.