A PET owner is demanding a change in the law after her beloved dog was shot dead by a farmer.

Lisa Marie Lamont, 29, wants the Scottish government to introduce ‘Jess’ Law’ after her Siberian husky was killed after entering a farmer’s field in Old Bonhill.

Jess escaped from the family home on Wednesday, February 17 and it’s understood she was killed after a farmer became concerned about their livestock.

The Reporter understands that she was shot in the back from distance before being shot at close range.

Lisa Marie who is a mother to three children – Rebecca, five, Abigail, three and 15-week-old Robert – wants to change the law.

She said: “There’s no black and white areas in the current law, it’s just grey.

"It needs to be changed so that there’s protection for livestock- and protection for dogs.

“The law, as it stands, is an old law. Laws have to move on with the times.”

Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, the penalties for worrying livestock are a criminal record, a fine of up to £1,000 and the possibility of an owner’s dog being destroyed.

Lisa Marie said: “I totally understand famers’ rights as well, but the law has to be made clearer and take into consideration the other side.

"They can’t just be able to go shoot any dog that wanders into their field.

“I could understand it if Jess had traces of sheep, blood or wool in her mouth, but there were not any traces.

“I think they should have to fire a warning shot in the air, or even use a tranquilliser gun, or rubber bullets. If that was the case, we could have had a different outcome.”

Lisa Marie, a responsible pet owner, is now planning to sit down with partner Douglas and formulate a campaign to highlight the issue.

She added: “I’d also like to thank all those who’ve send us private messages of comfort and support, which has meant so much.

“We just want the law changed and if one good thing came out of it then maybe famers would think twice, even for just a split second, before another pet is killed.”

Harry Huyton, director of Edinburgh-based animal charity OneKind, which is o are dedicated to ending cruelty to Scotland’s wildlife, pets and other animals said: “Our sympathies are with everyone involved.

“Dogs chasing sheep is a serious welfare issue, particularly at this time of year when the ewes are pregnant.

“Dog owners should always ensure their dogs are on lead when sheep are present or nearby.

“However, we urge farmers to use signs to clearly indicate when dogs should be on lead and even when they can be let off their lead.

“We appreciate it can be very difficult in a fast-moving situation when the welfare of the sheep is paramount, however farmers should also see shooting the dog as last resort and, if the situation allows, attempt to resolve the situation using non-lethal techniques.”