Urgent plea after deer savaged by pet dogs three times in three weeks at the Bradenham estate

Rangers at the Bradenham estate, near Saunderton, have had to humanely kill deer that have been viciously attacked by dogs on three separate occasions in the last three weeks.

And in the wake of the latest horrifying attack, National Trust rangers are making a heartfelt plea to dog owners to keep their animals under control when walking there.

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"It’s incredibly upsetting for everyone – the dog owner, onlookers and the rangers who have to deal with both the injured animal and the people involved who are often shocked and horrified," said Neil Harris, countryside manager for the central Chilterns.

"We want to remind dog owners of the importance of keeping their dogs under control. It’s a criminal offence for dogs to worry livestock - this includes things like chasing and barking at the heels of sheep and cows - so always put dogs on leads where there are grazing animals.

The beautiful Bradenham estate - pictured by Hugh Mothersole

"However, many dog owners may not be aware of the importance of keeping dogs under close control in woodland and along conservation field margins.

"This includes keeping dogs on a short lead during ground-nesting bird season from March to July when birds such as partridges and warblers are raising chicks close to the ground.

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"As heartening as it is to see dogs being dogs, snuffling around in the undergrowth, dogs disturbing birds and animals when they’re raising young can have a devastating effect on wildlife."

With a huge increase in the number of new dog owners venturing into the countryside for walking, Mr Harris says everyone needs to "work together" to protect the precious landscapes - especially as those lockdown puppies are now becoming "rebellious teenagers".

He said: "We have wonderful privileges in this country, giving us free access to thousands of acres of beautiful countryside, much of which the National Trust looks after. And we must remember the responsibilities and laws that come with this."

Advice for dog owners in the countryside:

• Always put your dog on a lead around livestock

• Plan your walk before you go – if you are a regular local walker then get to know your patch and where the livestock are

• Always read the signs on gates about grazing animals; these may change as animals are moved around

• Dog attacks on livestock are often carried out by dogs that have escaped from their gardens or their owners. Check your garden is secure, especially if you’re in a holiday cottage or have just moved house, and be extra careful when opening the car boot or your front door

• Keep your dog under close control in woodland and on a lead between March and July

• Close control means being able to reliably recall the dog, consider working on this, or alternatively, use a lead

If you witness an attack on livestock, report it to Thames Valley Police by calling 101.