Sheep seriously injured in dog attack at Caistor Roman Town

Around 300 sheep were grazing on the meadow at Caistor Roman Town, three miles south of Norwich, when the dog launched its attack, causing the herd to scatter. 

One of the animals could not get away in time and was "nearly ripped apart" by the dog, which was not on a lead. 

The sheep was attacked by an out-of-control dog at Caistor Roman Town (Image: NAT) Two members of the public saw the attack and rushed to the sheep's aid, finding it severely injured.

The dog ran off and the pair did not see its owner.

READ MORE: Riverside restaurant culls management after one-star hygiene rating

Natalie Butler, director of the Norfolk Archaeological Trust which manages Caistor Town, said: "It's really very awful. 

"The sheep is still alive, but it doesn't look good, not just from the physical injuries but the trauma of being chased by a dog.

It sustained injuries around its neck and flank (Image: NAT) "Sheep find this so stressful. The shock can kill them or if they are pregnant they can miscarry.

"Our shepherd is very upset that this has happened and he is very worried about the other sheep and whether they will recover from the trauma."

READ MORE: Police referred to watchdog after crash on city street

Dogs are allowed at Caistor Roman Town, which is a popular walking spot, but only if they are on leads.

Flaps of flesh and hair were left hanging in strips after the attack (Image: NAT) "The damage an out-of-control dog can do is catastrophic, and it is truly awful that it has happened here," Ms Butler added.

"We very much appreciate all of our visitors who do keep their dogs on leads while visiting, and thank them for helping to create a safe environment for everyone to enjoy."

Dogs are allowed on Caistor Roman Town but only on leads (Image: Newsquest) The attack may lead to calls for the trust to ban dogs from the site altogether.

Ms Butler said: "Our trustees are aware of the incident and how we continue to ensure the safety of our visitors and protect the sheep and the wildlife is under discussion."

Norfolk Archaeological Trust director Natalie Butler said the future of dogwalkers at the site is in discussion (Image: NAT)