Officers are warning dog owners to keep their pets under control after two dogs killed a number of sheep in the Moorlands.
Police were called at 7am on Saturday (24 April) to farmland on Rectory Road in Hollington following reports of animals injured.
Officers attended and two German Shepherd dogs were reported killing sheep before running off.
A total of seven lambs and one ewe died.
Further livestock was also hurt, some of which have dependent lambs.
The farmer, who was legally allowed to shoot the dogs, but did not do so, was later assisted by a local vet.
Officers traced the owner of the dogs and inquiries are ongoing.
Chief Inspector Mark Thorley of Staffordshire Moorlands neighbourhood policing team, said: “No farmer likes the prospect of shooting a dog, let alone actually doing it, but it’s written into law that they can protect their livestock by shooting any dog which is worrying said livestock.
“There is only one person who can prevent this kind of incident from happening – the dog’s owner.
“I’d like to remind and warn dog owners that they may pay the ultimate price if they do not keep their animals under control.
“They should also consider that livestock can be worth huge sums of money, which they may be liable for, if their pet goes on to injure or kill them.
“You need not worry, however, as if you’re with your dog and you have it under proper control as the law states you should, there is no risk to the livestock or your dog.”
To report any crime involving livestock or other animals, contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or call 999 in an emergency
