DOG owners are being reminded to be careful to avoid the dangers of allowing their pets off the lead on hill lands and near farmland.

A statement by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture said the issue is a year-round concern but is of particular importance during the lambing months of March to May.

Chairman of the Forestry, Amenity and Lands Directorate Brenda Cannell MHK said: "With reports every year of injuries caused by family pets, it is clear that people often don't realise that any dog, regardless of breed, size, or temperament, is capable of causing serious injury or death to pregnant ewes and ewes with lambs.

"Footpaths across the uplands obviously bring walkers and dogs in close proximity to sheep.

"Problems also occur in plantations next to farmland, such as at Chibbanagh near Mount Murray, where unleashed dogs have chased or attacked sheep in recent years."

Mrs Cannell added: "Farmers have the right to take action to protect their livestock in the event of dogs straying and legal action can be taken against people who do not control their dogs.

"In the event of a prosecution arising from sheep-worrying, severe penalties may be imposed together with compensation claims."