The owner of a dog that maimed and killed livestock has been ordered to keep his pet on a lead at all times when in public.

David Bravery, 39, of Westerham Hill, Westerham, has also been banned from walking his dog on the land where the grisly attacks took place, as part of a control order.

Appearing at Medway Magistrates' Court today, Bravery admitted four counts of livestock worrying, an offence under the Protection of Livestock Act.

The court heard Bravery's dog had been involved in four incidents of livestock worrying between April 12 and August 5 at two farms in Westerham.

In one incident, a sheep's leg was injured, which required £500 worth of veterinary treatment. The dog also killed a goat, after inflicting a fatal wound to the animal’s neck.

Bravery was given a control order following the hearing.

The case was investigated by PC Nick Lingham of Kent Police's Rural Task Force.

PC Lingham said: "The man allowed his dog to brutally attack a number of animals, causing them significant injury and distressing the owners who had to try and contain the dog whilst it was being aggressive.

"He repeatedly behaved irresponsibly, failing to use a lead or a muzzle and admitted he was aware that his dog would attack animals.

"We will now monitor the situation to encourage him to adhere to the order and if he fails to do so, appropriate action will be taken which may result in the destruction of his dog if it attacks again."

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