Country life can be peaceful, but for Johnny Depp, a recent walk with his new rescue dog turned unexpectedly chaotic.
The Hollywood star’s bullmastiff, Bourbon, reportedly escaped during a stroll near his rented East Sussex mansion and mauled two sheep to death, leaving the local farming community shocked.
The Incident and Local Reaction
The attack occurred while Johnny, 62, was away from home.
His dog was reportedly under the supervision of a handler when it broke free and targeted the grazing sheep.
Farmer Joe Ginger, whose animals were attacked, described the incident as “a serious matter,” emphasizing the importance of his work and the wellbeing of his livestock.
According to sources, Mr. Ginger is “understandably furious,” noting that such attacks are unfortunately common when dogs are not properly controlled or trained in the area.
Johnny Depp Responds With Precautions
Upon learning of the incident, Depp is said to have been “very upset,” particularly because he values the privacy and serenity of his countryside retreat.
In response, he has reportedly hired a professional dog trainer and introduced additional safety measures to prevent further incidents with Bourbon.
The Hollywood star’s aides have taken steps to ensure the dog is secure during walks, demonstrating that Depp is serious about maintaining peace in his rural surroundings.
The Mansion and Surrounding Property
Johnny’s East Sussex residence is a historic property dating back to the mid-1800s, featuring landscaped grounds and a distinctive sunken walled garden.
He is believed to be renting the grand mansion for around £12,000 per month.
The farmland where the sheep were killed is thought to be owned by the same landlord who rents out the estate.
A local smallholder estimated that the sheep involved were worth roughly £180 each and noted that while tragic, such dog attacks are not unusual in rural East Sussex.
A History of Canine Controversies
This isn’t the first time Depp’s dogs have caused public attention.
Back in 2015, his Yorkshire Terriers, Boo and Pistol, became the centre of an international incident when they were brought into Australia without proper documentation.
The animals faced possible euthanasia unless they were removed from the country within 72 hours, highlighting the challenges Depp has faced with his pets in the past.
Moving Forward
While the recent incident has been unsettling for both Johnny and the local farming community, steps are reportedly being taken to ensure Bourbon remains under control.
With a professional trainer on board and new precautions in place, the hope is that future walks in the picturesque East Sussex countryside will be peaceful once again.