The RSPCA had to be called to a Nottinghamshire park after a swan was reportedly attacked and left with 'some of the worst injuries' the charity has ever seen. Dog owners have been reminded of their legal responsibility to keep their pets under control after the incident.
On Thursday, May 25, RSPCA animal rescue officer Katie Hetherington was called to Langold Country Park, Worksop. The male bird sustained a broken wing and foot as well as heavy blood loss after being found by a member of the public on a path.
The RSPCA was alterted at around 7pm, and Kata explained the swan's right wing had been left hanging from his body. This male swan is believed to be one of several mating pairs on the lake and may have been incubating eggs with his partner. Sadly his condition was so serious following the incident that he had to be put to sleep to prevent further suffering.
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The charity says the swan’s death is another reminder how vital it is for dog owners to be vigilant and to look out for wildlife when they are out on walks and to keep their pets on leads, especially during the nesting season. Katie said: “It was reported that there were feathers in the water and a member of the public had heard splashing.
"Even though a dog was not immediately seen, it’s difficult to think what else could have caused such catastrophic injuries. He had possibly the worst break to a wing that I've ever seen in a bird - it had completely snapped.
"His right foot was also broken and he’d lost a substantial amount of blood. He’d somehow managed to drag himself onto the path although it was clear when I arrived that his injuries were not survivable. The sight of this terribly wounded swan is something that will stay with me for quite some time.
"It was also hugely distressing for people to have witnessed and my sincere thanks go to the man who contacted us initially and stayed behind after the park had closed, as well as other members of the public for the kindness and compassion they showed.” The RSPCA is reminding dog owners that under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 they have a legal responsibility to keep their dogs under control in public places.
Additionally, swans, their nests and their eggs are also protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Anyone with any information about the incident should contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.
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