A SHEEP has had to be put down after a dog attack.

Despite farmer Stuart Alderson and the vet's best efforts to save the sheep, the injuries she sustained were too severe.

The Bolton News reported last week how Mr Alderson of Paddock Leach Farm had no choice but to shoot and kill two dogs who were attacking his livestock.

The dogs had separated five breeding ewes from the remainder. Four were badly injured and the devastating call had to be made to euthanise one of the sheep last Thursday, nearly a week after the attack.

The other three are recovering.

Mr Alderson had been treating the sheep with honey and bathing the wound, hoping she may survive the injuries.

He said: "She seemed to be getting better but her breathing became laboured and I think infection had taken over.

"I knew infection would always be the issue."

Mr Alderson, who has been farming for five years and breeds Dorset sheep, said: "The vet had been on the Monday and had come on the Thursday.

"It was a painful decision to have to make but not a difficult one because she was not well and I want give my animals the best life possible. I had to do what was best for her and take the vet's advice."

He said: "Dorothy who was featured in paper had had her staples removed. As the attack happened in winter, there was no risk of flies, which in summer would have been all over her.

"Dorothy is getting better."

Mr Alderson reiterated the importance of ensuring dogs are secure or on leads when near livestock. He said most dog owners are understanding of the dangers.

But added: "It is also worth reminding people because new people are always coming in the countryside and don't realise what can happen."