A FAMILY in Colwyn Bay said they are “devastated” after losing all 13 of their pets to fox attacks in a matter of weeks.

Sandra Owen, who lives with her husband Robert and their children on Marine Road, bought the house more than a year ago, but did not move in until four weeks ago because of renovation work.

Bringing along 13 outdoor pets – two ducks, eight chickens and three rabbits – the family did not expect them to be in any danger.

10 of the pets (the ducks and chickens) went “in one go”, Sandra said, to what she said was “obviously” a fox.

North Wales Pioneer: Sandra Owen with one of their chickens.Sandra Owen with one of their chickens. (Image: Sandra Owen)

After this brutal attack, the family contacted the RSPCA for more information on how to protect the three rabbits.

“We love our pets, we actually rescued our three rabbits from the RSPCA three months ago,” Sandra told the Pioneer.

“I contacted them two weeks ago for advice to protect the rabbits, they have been so wonderful.

“They sent possible fox proof homes - in the two weeks of me trying to think of ideas, the fox or foxes killed them.

“The rabbits we were trying to protect and fox proof, we lost last night, as they teared through the cage at the front of our house.

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“It's awful and the children are devastated, we are all devastated.”

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We are very saddened to hear that someone has lost 13 pets to a fox - our thoughts go out to them and their pets.

“There are measures that can be introduced to deter foxes from gardens from erecting fencing or planting prickly plants around the edges of the garden.

“Animal repellent that's approved for use with foxes could also be used - these are widely available from garden centres or hardware stores.

North Wales Pioneer: One of Sandra's daughters with one of their chickens.One of Sandra's daughters with one of their chickens. (Image: Sandra Owen)

“It's illegal to use any substance to deter foxes that haven't been approved for that use.

“Owners can keep pets such as rabbits indoors or in secure enclosures during the night.

“These enclosures will need a solid roof and floor.

“Sides should be made from weld-mesh fencing (not chicken wire) and the doors should have a good lock that can't be dislodged. People should also clear up any pet food that spills onto the ground.

“For more information about living with foxes in your garden please visit our website - https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife/foxes/garden.”