Plea to dog owners after swan killed

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DOG owners are being urged to keep their pets on leads after a swan was attacked and killed.

Jan Harrigan, who owns Wychbold Swan Rescue near Droitwich, has appealed to dog walkers to be vigilant around lakes after a dog mauled a swan at Arrow Valley Lake.

Sanctuary volunteer John Stewart was called to the lake around 3pm last Wednesday (January 16) after a black Staffordshire Bull Terrier type dog, with white markings, jumped into the lake and attacked it.

Although there are signs asking visitors to make sure dogs are on leads when walking by the lake, the owner allowed the dog off the lead.

The swan’s injuries were so severe it had to be put to sleep by vets after suffering from a broken wing, a stripped neck, deep puncture wound and a broken leg.

Ms Harrigan said: “It had terrible injuries and it was very upsetting. The poor thing was in so much shock and pain, the most humane thing to do was put it down.

“I know there are signs around the lake telling people to put their dogs on the lead, so why can’t people do it?

“It’s about owners being more responsible. It’s not just a certain breed of dog, all dogs are capable of this, especially breeds which love water.

“I just hope this teaches people to be more responsible and follow the signs.”

She added she would like the man who owned the dog to come forward and apologise for the incident.

“Luckily this is the first report this year and I hope it’s the last. I would appreciate if the gentleman was honest and admitted to it as it was very upsetting.”

An RSPCA spokeswoman said swans are a protected species and potential penalties could be enforced by police wildlife officers, as well as the RSPCA.

Coun Debbie Taylor, responsible for local environment on Redditch Borough Council, said she was distressed to hear about the incident and urged witnesses to come forward.

“We do politely request everyone using the lakeside trail keeps dogs on leads, not least to protect the waterfowl. I would urge all dog owners to pay heed to the signage we have up in the park.”

Anyone who witnessed the attack should contact Redditch Borough Council’s park team on 01527 534123 or search for Wychbold Swan Rescue on Facebook.

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