POLICE have issued an appeal to locate an owner after two dogs chased sheep in a “livestock worrying” incident that could have resulted in “significant injury or suffering” of the animals involved.

The incident happened on land beside a public footpath below the ruins of John of Gaunt’s castle nnear Beaver Dyke Reservoir, in an area known as Haverah Park near Harrogate.

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It happened at around 2.50pm on Thursday March 24 when a witnessed reported seeing a dalmatian dog, believed to be called Mabel, chase after three ewes.

A second, medium sized, black dog, thought to be called Parker also joined the joined the chase soon after.

Police say they are looking to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time who could assist the investigation.

They would especially like to speak to a woman who was seen exercising a number of dogs in the area and the owner of a black van which was parked at the side of Pennypot Lane near where the footpath to the reservoir starts as they may hold useful information.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: “Being in charge of a dog which worries sheep is a criminal offence.

“At this time of year ewes are often heavily pregnant and being chases by a dog can result in significant injury or suffering and in the worst cases, death of the animals involved.

“It also has devastating consequences for livestock keepers, causing personal distress as well as significant financial costs

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“If anyone has information about this incident please contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 select option 2 and ask to speak to PC Bill Hickson.

“You can also email bill.hickson@northyorkshire.police.uk – please quote reference NYP-25032022-0069.”

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