ELEVEN sheep have been killed following a dog attack at a small holding near Carisbrooke Castle.

The owner of the flock reported one sheep had been mauled by a dog and ten other sheep had died from shock.

Dogs worrying livestock is a criminal offence and in such incidents, livestock can be seriously injured or killed.

It is also common for other animals witnessing attacks to die from shock.

Isle of Wight Country Watch police said: "Obviously this caused a lot of distress and financial loss to the owner.

"Dog owners again are reminded to keep your dogs on leads especially when you are near to livestock.

"Owners often voice surprise when their dog chases animals, but this is an innate part of a dog’s behaviour and they will instinctively chase and injure animals given the chance.

"If you have any information in regards to this incident, please contact the Island's Country Watch team on 101 quoting 44190048324, or you can call anonymously Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111."

Country Watch suggests keeping dogs on leads when around livestock and not letting them off unless confident they will return on command.

The team also suggests making sure dogs do not stray off paths or areas where there is right of access.