One swan killed and two injured in dog attacks

RSPCA asks owners to keep dogs on a lead

Press release: Monday, 14 January 2013

The RSPCA is reminding dog owners to keep their pets on a lead around wildlife after three attacks on swans in quick succession.

A mute swan was grabbed around the neck by a dog at Fallwood Marina, Leeds, on Friday 4 January 2013.

He was taken to Stapeley Grange wildlife centre in Cheshire where attempts were made to nurse him back to health, but in the end the injuries sustained were too severe and the swan did not survive.

This was the third time in just over a week that a swan had arrived at the rehabilitation centre after being attacked by a dog.

At the end of December two other swans were rescued and taken to Stapeley for care – only this time they made a full recovery and will soon be released back into the wild.

One was bitten on the shoulder by a dog at Nantwich Lake on December 27 2012 while the other, a juvenile, was found at Middlewich Lake with deep puncture wounds to his wings.

Lee Stewart, manager at the wildlife centre, said: “The pain and suffering these three otherwise healthy swans were forced to endure was incredibly distressing.

“The poor swan which came in last week had particularly horrific injuries – the dog must have had him by the neck and really shaken him about.

“We urge dog owners to be on the lookout for nearby swans, or any wildlife, when they are out on walks. A bit of extra diligence could save lives.”

As wild birds, mute swans are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it an offence to intentionally injure, take or kill a mute swan, to damage or destroy the nest of a mute swan whilst it is in use or being built or to intentionally take or destroy an egg belonging to a mute swan - or any wild bird.

Dog owners have a legal responsibility under the Dangerous Dogs Act to have charge and control of their animals in a public place.

The RSPCA asks anyone who has any information about a dog attacking or worrying wildlife to please report the matter as soon as possible by calling 0300 1234 999.

We can only carry out rescues like this with your help. Please text STAP70 £2 to 70070.

Notes to editors

• Images of the swan after attack are available, but please be warned they are shocking.
• Interviews are available on request