A DOG attacking a sheep in Fife has prompted a public appeal reminding owners to keep their pets on a lead.

Safer Communities Fife highlighted an incident in Kirkcaldy on Monday when a sheep was targeted by a dog.

The community safety team stressed: "No matter how well behaved your dog is, you can never guarantee that your dog won’t run off chasing after sheep on an off-lead walk.

"Many dog owners are unaware that even if their pet doesn’t make contact with a sheep, the distress and exhaustion caused by being chased can trigger a pregnant ewe to die or miscarry.

"Young lambs can also become separated from their mothers.

"Please remember to have your dog on a lead at all times around livestock."