A DOG which killed an alpaca in an attack must wear a muzzle in public for the rest of its life.

The animal, which was unsupervised when it attacked three alpacas on a farm near Bartley in the New Forest last year, is the subject of a civil dog control order granted at Southampton Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.

All of the alpacas required veterinary treatment after the incident on December 22 and one later died.

Inspector Lou Hubble of Hampshire police's country watch team said: “Because alpacas are not classed as livestock, we were not able to pursue a criminal case.

“However, because of the impact this type of attack has, we felt it important to bring about a civil action.

“We will continue to protect our rural communities. This outcome should send a warning to any owners who allow their dogs to be unsupervised or out of control around animals of any description.”

The order will last for the dog's life. Its owner must ensure it wears a muzzle at all times while in public or on any land not owned, occupied or controlled by the landowner. It must also be kept on suitable leads at all times while in public.