Nipomo rancher Carl Holloway was on his way out to feed his sheep and goats late last Monday morning when he saw two pit bulls attacking some of his animals, Halloway told SLO County sheriff's deputies.

After realizing that the dogs had already mauled and killed two of his goats and one of his sheep, Halloway went back inside his residence on South Oakglen Avenue, got his rifle, went back outside, and shot both dogs dead.

Holloway was exonerated when deputies said the shooting was justified to protect his stock.

Charges may be filed against the dog's owners for harassing livestock.