A walker has raised concerns, claiming that two sheep have died in a field and have not been tended to for at least two weeks.
The walker who uses the bridle path regularly told the Echo that approximately two weeks ago they noticed the dead sheep which are being kept in an enclosure with at least four other live sheep.
The animals are in a field along a bridle path from Rodden Lane, Rodden, Weymouth.
The Echo reached out to the owner of the sheep who confirmed that he was aware that there were two dead sheep on the land but declined to comment further.
Dorset Council Trading Standards have since visited the farm.
A spokesperson for the council said: "Dorset Council Trading Standards are aware of the issue, and will ensure the fallen stock is appropriately disposed of. If we identify any welfare concerns, we will make sure they are addressed within a reasonable time frame.”
The two dead sheep were positioned at either side of the field and the living livestock appeared to huddle at the furthest fence away.
There were additional sheep and alpacas, including one baby alpaca in the nearby vicinity.
The Animal Plant and Health Agency (APHA), are a government agency that works to safeguard animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy.
A spokesperson for APHA said: “We take breaches of animal welfare legislation very seriously and investigate every allegation that is reported to us. Since 2020, we have supported over 60 prosecutions against animal welfare breaches.”
“We do not comment on individual cases. We will always take appropriate action where non-compliances with welfare regulations are disclosed.”
They added: "Anyone who has serious concerns about the welfare of livestock is urged to immediately report them to APHA to allow prompt investigation. England: telephone 03000 200 301 or email customeradvice@apha.gov.uk.
"We will always investigate where concerns have been raised however we are unable to comment on individual cases. Ongoing investigations are strictly confidential and any information released may prejudice any legal action in the future.
"Where issues have been raised with us we may conduct follow-up unannounced inspections to monitor compliance."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel