THE RSPCA is urging residents who have seen an injured deer to report it to them.

The animal charity was called to an incident of a injured deer in Ulverston last weekend near Ellie’s Hill Foot Garden Centre after two dogs had targeted the animal.

A spokeswoman for the RSPCA said: “He went out and managed to locate the deer – which was weight-bearing on all four legs – but it jumped over a fence and ran off before he could get near it.

“If anyone else sees the deer and is concerned about him then they can call us on 0300 1234 999.”

A member of staff from the garden centre witnessed the attack, which was believed to have been from two Alsatians, last Saturday morning.

The RSPCA has warned dog owners reminding them of their responsibility, especially given it is spring when more animals are out in fields.

A spokeswoman said: “The RSPCA encourages responsible dog ownership, and this includes ensuring pets remain under their owner’s control when out and about in public.

“We ask that dog owners be aware that there may be wild animals present in the area when walking their dog and to keep their dog under control at all times.

“Dog owners have a legal responsibility under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to keep their dog under control in a public place.”

This comes after numerous warnings from Cumbria police urging dog walkers to keep their pets on leads with lambing season currently in full flow.

Last month it was reported that 29 sheep were killed after a dog attack in south Cumbria.