Reckless dog owners are being urged to keep their pets on a lead and under control - after two lambs are mauled in Macclesfield.

Horrifying video shows a bloodied lamb resting on a towel, as it feebly tries to stick their tongue out for a deep breath of air.

The almost-still creature is covered top-to-toe in blood, and makes tough viewing in the 12-second video posted to the Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team Facebook.

PC Jim Clark said: "This is the horrific truth of one of the consequences of a livestock attack.

"Two new born lambs subjected to an attack from what is believed to be a dog off the lead and out of control.

"This occurred in fields next to Macclesfield canal adjacent to the AZ site on Tuesday 4th May between 0800 - 0900.

"I am a regular user of this canal path and what is apparent is that lots of folks out running are more focused of their personal bests rather than what is their dog up to."

Local Andrea Smith commented: "Absolutely Heartbreaking to see a defenceless animal like this suffering. Tougher sentences are needed right away."

While everyone should have the right to roam, the cost to the farmer and the quality of life for the injured animals should be considered.

Dog owners can do this by ensuring dogs are kept on a lead in the countryside.

If anybody has any information surrounding this awful incident please contact the team via the constabulary Web page.

People should quote IML 981154 as the reference number.

The full video can be viewed here, but warning the scenes are highly disturbing.

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