Images used throughout this article, showcasing the aftermath of the dog attack, are graphic.

Following a recent dog attack on her land in Co. Wexford, sheep farmer Ann Jones said that it was "the most savage thing" she has ever seen in many years of working with animals.

A few days ago, Jones went to the yard first thing in the morning, only to find the "devastation" of dogs "ripping apart" and "scattering" multiple lambs across her land.

"The lambs were completely pulled apart. They ripped the bellies out of them and took the ears off them. It was beyond vicious," Jones said.

With the help of a neighbouring farmer and someone working on the nearby railway, Jones "tried to stop the dogs and chase them". She said that one of the dogs "tried to attack" her in the process.

A total of seven lambs were killed as a result of the attack, with some having to be put down after a veterinary visit.

Jones noticed that two ewes were also missing, and after much searching, the ewes washed up on the shore, having been chased into a river.

Based just outside Wexford town, Jones said this is the third attack on the farm since 2019. She said that this attack was "by far the most horrible".

The incident has been reported to gardaí and the local dog warden, who are continuing to investigate.

Irish Farmers' Association Co. Wexford sheep chair George Graham said that there "has been many" attacks across the country this year, and that they cause "financial stress" for farmers, including vet and knackery costs, but also "long-term mental strain".

"After dog attacks, farmers might be going to bed, not sleeping, listening to hear dogs outside, and not knowing what they're going to face in the morning," Graham said.

He said there is "an issue with dog ownership" and "responsibility", leaving many dogs not microchipped.

"Every dog that is either sold or bought must have a microchip. Every dog owner is also obliged to have a dog license and there are many dogs with neither. There are many fines available, but I don't hear them being enforced," Graham said.

He also urged any farmers who face similar incidents or any type of dog worrying to "record them" and "get the word out".