Warning over 'dangerously out of control' dogs

A police warning has been issued over a rise in dogs being "dangerously out of control" in rural Nottinghamshire.

Rushcliffe South police beat team said it had recently dealt with six incidents of dogs injuring people and one killing a sheep.

The injuries were caused in Thoroton, East Leake, Sutton Bonnington, Hawksworth and twice in Ruddington, while the sheep was killed near East Bridgford between Sunday and Monday, officers added.

In a statement, the beat team said: "All of these incidents could [have been] prevented if those walking the dogs or in charge of them had them under proper control."

The beat team added: "If a person is injured in any way by a dog, including biting, scratches, bruising, including from falling over while being chased, then it becomes a recordable crime. If a person is in fear of being injured it is still a criminal offence.

"Where livestock are attacked or worried there is an offence.

"Ultimately if your dog causes injury or death to people or animals it could be seized by police and destroyed for public safety, and owners and those in charge of dogs could be arrested and prosecuted."

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