A SHETLAND cow suffered horrific injuries in a dog attack on grazing land in Bournemouth.

The animal had serious wounds to its head and body, prompting a police investigation and the temporary removal of all cattle from Kinson Common.

Now dog owners have been warned to keep their pets under control.

And irresponsible owners have been told their actions could lead to new rules meaning all dogs would have to be kept on leads at local nature reserves such as Hengistbury Head, Kinson Common, Turbary Common and the Stour Valley.

The incident at Kinson Common is the latest in a series which have caused concern to both Bournemouth council's community parks and countryside team and police across the borough.

They said a minority of dog owners allow them to worry livestock, disturb wildlife and cause a nuisance to other members of the public.

"Any dog, regardless of size, breed or temperament can be a potential danger to livestock if it is not used to being around them" said Lyndon Forster, council grazing officer.

"Owners of any dog that is not pro-perly trained to ignore livestock are advised to please keep their dog on a lead."

PC Rob Hammond, Dorset Police Wildlife Crimes officer, said attacks or anti social behaviour will be trea-ted seriously and urged anyone with information about the incident in Kinson last month to come forward.

Cllr Beverley Dunlop, cabinet me-mber for tourism and the economy, added: "Responsible dog walkers are welcome in Bournemouth's countryside areas and their presence can really help to deter damaging activities such as arson and vandalism.

"We will not, however, tolerate attacks to our cattle and ponies and in this respect we are working with Dorset Police with a view to prosecuting offenders."

PC Hammond can be contacted on 01202 222222.