A WOMAN whose pet Doberman bitch was shot dead after it attacked and killed two chickens in a neighbour's garden, has warned other dog owners to learn from her tragic mistake.

Carol Smith, of Goudhurst Road, Cranbrook, says two-year-old Tightner had never attacked livestock before.

Neighbour Andy Heath confirmed he had shot the dog. Mr Heath, who has a firearms license, said he had fired a warning shot beforehand.

The shooting happened after the dog, which was usually kept chained up or inside the house, got into the neighbouring garden after being taken out for a walk. She had been off the lead and ran into the garden, where she caught the chickens.

Mrs Smith said: "I am devastated. I wouldn't want to see this happen to anyone else's dog, so everyone who has a dog needs to be really aware of the law and careful."

Police have investigated the incident and confirmed that no further action will be taken.