Brutal dog attacks that have injured and killed commercial goats and prized sheep on farms in the Baradine district.

The devastated stock owners say the losses are not only financial, but heartbreaking, particularly when carefully bred animals have had to be destroyed.

One local farmer said the attack had left a trail of destruction in the paddock and thousands of dollars in losses. They say that the herd were initially attacked with injuries consistent with dog bites.

“We found four does and one buck dead in the first attack. A further two were alive, but later succumbed to their injuries," they said.

“Then last Saturday, 7 March, the dogs returned in the night killing another five does and severely injuring a further twenty animals that are not expected to survive. The injuries are bites to the rear legs, ripping tendons and muscles and the throats. It is horrific and cruel.

“These weren’t just ordinary goats; they were prize animals we’ve spent years breeding. To find them mauled like that is heartbreaking and incredibly frustrating.”

A local sheep breeder has also reported a similar recent incident that occurred within a few kilometres of the property where the goats were attacked.

“Four stud ewes and a lamb were attacked and mauled,” they said.

“They were not killed but received nasty neck and leg wounds. They were being prepared for the upcoming agricultural shows, including Baradine. Now, of course, they have had to be withdrawn.

“It’s a horrible sight to come across, you put so much time and care into your animals and then in one night dogs can destroy everything.”

Farmers say the incidents highlight the need for greater responsibility from dog owners.

“People need to realise that when their dogs roam, the consequences can be devastating,” one landholder said.

“It’s not just a dog having a chase, livestock are being injured and killed.”

Producers are now concerned the attacks could happen again if the dogs responsible are not identified.

“Once dogs start worrying stock they often come back,” a farmer explained.

“We’re worried it’s only a matter of time before more animals are attacked.”

Stock owners are urging anyone with information about roaming dogs in the district to come forward.

“We’re not trying to cause trouble, but something has to be done,” one landholder said.

“Farmers shouldn’t have to wake up to scenes like this.”

Whilst the dogs have not been caught in action during an attack, two pig dogs have apparently been identified roaming in the vicinity of the properties impacted by the attacks.

Warrumbungle Shire Council rangers, including the local land services ranger and police are now investigating the attacks and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Authorities say even small details about roaming or aggressive dogs in the area could assist with the inquiry.

“These attacks have caused significant distress and financial loss for local producers,” a spokesperson said.

“Community information could play a vital role in preventing further incidents.”