PET owners are being encouraged to keep their dogs under control in the countryside after a spate of sheep attacks saw 40 savaged.

With the temperatures rising and more people taking their dogs for walks, police are urging people to abide by the “country code” if they are walking their pets in the countryside.

Lambing season is now in full swing and there have been increasing reports of sheep worrying in rural Somerset.

PC Katy Drabble from the Rural Crime Team said: “Sadly this week we have seen further cases of sheep worrying. That term doesn’t always reflect the devastation caused in some cases.

“Last month nearly 40 sheep were killed or died as a result of two dog attacks and this week we have seen sheep mauled by a dog near Cheddar, sheep chased into a river near Yeovil and sheep chased by children at Glastonbury Tor.

“Sheep are highly-strung animals and in lambing season any stress caused to a pregnant ewe can cause them to lose their lambs.”

Rural experts NFU Mutual estimated that more than 18,500 livestock were killed or injured in dog attacks in 2015. The cost of this to farmers was estimated at £1.1 million, representing an increase of 35 per cent on the previous year.

As well as being costly to the farmer, these often fatal attacks are extremely upsetting for those dealing with the aftermath.

PC Drabble added: “We know dog owners love to stroll in the countryside with their pets but we cannot stress enough how important it is to be aware of your surroundings.

“Even if you think your dog is placid and friendly, when faced with a field full of livestock they can be unpredictable. It’s simply not worth taking the risk – keep your dog on a lead and away from livestock.

“If your dog is found to be responsible for sheep worrying then as its owner you could find yourself with a large vets bill, prosecution and the strong possibility of your dog being destroyed as a result. We don't want that to happen, we don't want anyone to lose a much loved family pet, so please keep them on the lead."

Police are urging people to consider their actions and their dog’s actions when out walking, and to always to remember to: •Always check for livestock in fields when walking your dog/s.

•Always make sure you shut gates behind you.

•When in fields with livestock, it is vital that your dog/s are kept on a lead and under control at all times. The only time you should release your dog is in the event of being chased by cattle. By restraining the dog in this circumstance you are putting yourself at risk of being injured by the cattle.

•If you live near livestock and own a dog/s make sure that your property and garden are secure so your pets cannot escape.