AN ALPACA has had to be put down after being badly injured by a dog.

The incident took place at a private property in Furze Hill, Fordingbridge on December 19.

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. 

Ringwood Police has asked dog owners to keep their pets under control after the incident.

In a post on Facebook, the police said: "Very sorry to have to report that an alpaca was attacked by a dog in the Fordingbridge area.

"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".

Hampshire Police confirmed the incident and said enquires were ongoing at this stage.