Calls for more ‘Keep Dogs on Leads’ signs on Moel Famau after 6 pregnant sheep killed in attack

Six pregnant sheep were left dead in a shocking dog attack at a popular tourist spot.

The attack by an Alsation on Moel Famau farmer Tom Parry’s flock has sparked calls for more signs to be erected urging dog walkers to keep their pets on leads in the mountain area.

Mr Parry reported Saturday’s attack to Denbighshire Council’s environment cabinet member Tony Thomas.

Another farmer – and Llanbedr county councillor, Huw Williams – helped Mr Parry’s son in the aftermath  of the attack and helped secure the dog.

The matter wasn’t reported to the police but the owner of the dog agreed to pay £900 compensation to the farmer

Mr Parry, said: “People will think that it’s a vicious dog but it’s not. It’s just a normal family pet but I’d like people to realise what they can actually do when they see and chase sheep.”

Cllr Huw Williams (pictured above) whose ward covers part of the mountain, revealed how he and other neighbours helped to trap and catch the dog and  bring the attack to an end after they were called out to help on the mountain.

He said: “Even though it was a difficult situation we’ve come away with some positives in that a young dog has been spared from being put down.

And the owners have promised to send it off to be trained. Six sheep were killed but we don’t really know how many more were injured and the ewes were heavily in lamb and we don’t know if they will be aborting in the future.”

The council’s environment leader Tony Thomas said owners need to be aware of the dangers of letting dogs off their leads.

He added: “We have been working on a campaign across the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the wider Denbighshire countryside to encourage dog owners to keep their animals on a lead. It’s all about changing attitudes and behaviours.

“We believe we have seen positive improvements from many dog walkers, with more dogs being kept on leads and those wanting their dogs to be able to be exercised off lead walking through the forest instead of the open grazed hill. 

However, unfortunately, as in the incident at the weekend you only need one dog to be off lead out of control around sheep to have a devastating impact.

“Over the holiday period we understand that many people will be heading out to enjoy walks in the countryside but we ask them to please remember to be a responsible owner and keep their dog on a lead to protect the livestock and their dogs.”

By Shane Brennan – Local Democracy Reporter