A graphic image shows the aftermath of a horror dog attack which led to a heavily pregnant ewe having to be put down.

Vets and a farmer battled to save the ewe - which was pregnant with twin lambs - but her injuries were too severe.

Now, police have issued a stark warning to dog owners that their pets could pay the 'ultimate price' for an attack.

Farmer Edwin Chubb, of Waytown near Bridport, said the incident was distressing to all involved.

He found the injured sheep on Friday morning, after the attack overnight.

Mr Chubb said: "I brought her home but on Saturday we had to have her put down. She was heavily in lamb, which didn't help.

"I don't know how it happened because there isn't even a footpath in that field. We'd only moved them over there the day before."

Mr Chubb said he now fears for the rest of his flock. Ewes can abort their lambs due to stress, even days after an attack on the flock.

"I'm a farmer, I'm used to seeing dead animals, and in one way you can accept it," he said. "But in another, why should I have to? Those sheep to me are like a dog to another person, you care about your animals.

"It's just about being aware and keeping your dog under control."

Mr Chubb said the loss of the pregnant lamb and unborn ewes would cost him around £200.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident - and warned dog owners that livestock worrying is a criminal offence.

A spokesman for Bridport Police said: "Whilst it is appreciated and acknowledged that the vast majority of dog owners act responsibly in the countryside around livestock, however, it still appears that the message has not got through.

"Some dog owners still see their dog running around or amongst livestock as being innocent or playful, a dog running loose or not under close control is worrying livestock.

"This is an offence – and it is not acceptable especially during lambing or calving season as was the case in this incident."

Legislation exists to tackle dog owners who ignore rules, including if a dog causes injury or suffering to livestock, or in the case of females, causes abortion or loss of injury through being chased.

The spokesman added: "This can lead to a knock-on effect in breeding programmes that can take years to overcome.

"Often it is not until later that the true extent of the trauma caused to livestock has been realised. Dog owners may be oblivious that their family pet is worrying livestock out of their sight. Your dog may normally be gentle and calm, but put it among livestock and its natural instinct will become all too apparent.

"Dog owners, be responsible when in or near fields with livestock, keep your dog on a lead and under control at all times."

Dog owners are urged never to assume their pet isn't a threat or will never attack livestock, and are warned they may be held financially accountable and could risk their pet "paying the ultimate price."

Anyone with information regarding the attack or other countryside and wildlife crime should contact police on 101 quoting crime number 55180011237.