DOG walkers are being urged to keep their pets under close control after reports of sheep being chased, injured and killed.

The warning has been issued by Wiltshire Police’s Rural Crime Team, which says it has received reports of dogs being let off leads in fields containing livestock.

Officers say that even well-behaved dogs can cause serious harm if allowed to roam freely near sheep.

In some cases, animals have been seriously injured or killed as a result of being chased.

The team is reminding people visiting the countryside to keep dogs on a short lead when walking near livestock and to always pick up after their pets.

Dog fouling can spread diseases that are harmful to sheep, cattle and potentially to people.

Members of the public are also being asked not to tamper with farm signs, gates or electric fences, which are in place to protect both livestock and visitors.

Gates should be left as they are found or secured according to instructions on signage.

Police say actions in rural areas can have real consequences for farmers, animals and other countryside users, and are urging the public to act responsibly.