THERE was plenty of reaction to the tragic news yesterday about a pet dog being shot dead by a farmer.

The incident happened on Sunday (March 13) afternoon when the dog allegedly slipped its lead and began chasing and attacking sheep.

Despite the best efforts of the owners to recall the dog, it wouldn't come back and in the end, the farmer had no choice but to shoot the dog, who sadly died.

Farmers are actually allowed by law to protect their livestock, but the news cause plenty of reaction across our Facebook accounts.

"This is why dogs should always be on a lead unless in an enclosed exercise area," commented Anthony Murphy.

Nicolas Wiseman said: "It says the dog 'slipped it's lead', so it's just very unfortunate.

"Must have been awful for all concerned"

However, Julie O'Reilly disagrees with the law, saying: "They shouldn’t be allowed to shoot dogs.

"It’s absolutely disgusting.

"Poor baby, and I feel so sorry for the owners.

However, Darren Guy replied, saying, "I'm a dog lover and normally would agree entirely but sheep are lambing and slipped lead or not, it is a dog owner's responsibility to ensure the safety of their dog when around livestock, and of course the safety of livestock too.

"I'm pretty sure the farmer wasn't happy about having to shoot a dog either."

Rachel Thompson said: "Realistically other than trained sheep dogs, none can be trusted in field with sheep or cows.

"Don't agree with shooting things but whilst there is a meat industry just keep dogs away tragic.

"I feel for both."

Schula Curbishley suggested farmers could potentially use other methods, saying: "Knocks me sick.

"If they can legally keep a firearm why can’t they have tranquilliser guns instead? 

"That poor family having to witness their pet being killed unnecessarily.

However, Maggie Shepherd said she feels for the farmer, "I love dogs and used to have a border collie.

"The onus is on the dog owner to keep their dog under control.

"The farmer could lose a pregnant sheep and the lamb."

Jonathan Farber, a dog-owner, said he accepted the law, saying, "Yesterday, I spotted three dogs bounding through the field adjacent to the church in Rostherne which at this time, usually has lambs in there.

"My neighbour and I are dog owners and there is an accepted risk that if either one of the animals gets out and starts attacking livestock, the farmer is within his/her right to take lawful action to protect his flock."

Kirk Drinkwater agreed, saying "People should be more responsible for their dogs maybe this time of year when it's lambing.

"Find an alternative walk for you and your dog.

"There are lots of lovely places without going on farm land at lambing times."