POLICE in Fife have issued a warning to pet owners after a dog was shot and killed on a farm on Tuesday morning.

A young dog, off lead, strayed onto a farm in Ballingry at around 11.55am on Tuesday morning where lambing was underway.

The dog was then shot and killed leading to a police investigation. Following enquiries, officers ruled that no further action was required.

Police Scotland have now issued a warning to dog owners who walk their pets near farms.

Sergeant John Nicol, of Cowdenbeath Police Station, said: "Around 11.55am on Tuesday, 23 March, 2021, police were made aware that a dog was shot and killed on a farm in the Ballingry area following an incident of sheep worrying. Officers attended to carry out enquiries and no further action was required.

"Instances of sheep worrying cause a great amount of emotional distress and often substantial financial loss to farmers. And in this tragic case, the dog owners have also suffered personal heartache as a result of the attack.

"The lambing season has started and so anyone exercising their dogs should make sure they keep their pets on a lead and under close control when walking near livestock. A dog will not understand the consequences of its actions, however you do. Please remember that it is your dog and your responsibility."