﻿WARNING: Graphic image

Virginia Woolf The attack took place at a farm in Dovedale, about an hour's drive from Nelson (file photo).

A savage dog attack that left eight sheep dead has farmers in rural Nelson fearing a recurrence.

The attack was believed to have happened in the early hours of Friday morning last week, on a Dovedale farm owned by David and Fay Martin.

Fay Martin said a flock of 55 sheep in one of their paddocks had been set upon by one or more dogs.

Five sheep had been killed by the time they found out about the attack, with three more having to be put down due to the extent of their injuries.

READ MORE:

* 'Blood was everywhere': Five sheep killed in vicious dog attack

* Dovedale School celebrates 150 years

* Pair charged with arson over Dovedale Hill fire near Nelson

Martin said the animals had suffered head injuries, back injuries, multiple bruises, and lost wool, with several of them having their throats ripped out.

"It was vicious, they attacked one and then moved on to the next.

"We lost eight of them, but maybe we were lucky to have only lost eight. On the other side they were our prime two-tooths [ewes]."

Martin said it was unlikely a regular sheep dog would have been responsible for this kind of attack, although there could have been more than one dog involved.

supplied Many of the eight sheep mauled in the attack had their throats ripped out.

"You're unlikely to get a sheep dog to do that level of damage.

"We would suspect a more aggressive breed of dog, and a heavier dog too. [The sheep] weren't small animals."

A police spokeswoman said while police were notified of the incident there was little that could be done, as there was currently no evidence to identify the dog responsible or its owner.

Martin said they were definitely worried about another attack, as they were none the wiser as to who owns the dog/dogs or where they came from.

"I do think the other farmers are feeling a bit vulnerable – we certainly are.

"It's a common thing once a dog has attacked once they're likely to do it again. Its an instinct thing – if they see something run they'll chase it."

She said they were having to take extra precautions with their sheep in case of another attack.

For the first few nights the sheep were monitored overnight, but were now being moved off their paddock daily.

Martin pleaded with with other dog owners in the area to be responsible with their animals, making sure they knew where there dogs were during night-time, and to keep them restrained. ​