AN ALPACA had to be put down in the New Forest after being attacked by a dog.

Police have launched an investigation following the animal incident at an address in Furze Hill, Fordingbridge.

A warning has been issued by officers, with a call for dog owners to keep their animals under control.

A Ringwood Police spokesperson said: "The alpaca was in so badly injured that it had to be put to sleep by the vet.

"I know that most dog owners who live locally behave responsibly and keep their dogs on leads and fit muzzles. Clearly others do not and this is the distressing consequence of not having control of your dog.

"Please be a responsible owner and keep your dog under control."

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: "We can confirm that we received reports of an animal incident at a private property in Furze Hill, Fordingbridge on 19 December 2020.

"A dog was off its lead when it attacked an alpaca. As a result of the injuries sustained, the alpaca had to be put down.

"Police enquiries are ongoing at this stage."

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