AN animal charity has issued a warning to dog owners to keep their pets under control after a string of attacks on swans.
The Scottish SPCA have been alerted to a number of incidents across the country, where a swan has been injured, killed or humanely put to sleep due to being attacked by a dog.
And now that it is nesting season, there will be families of swans and their signets around East Renfrewshire parks, including Rouken Glen in Giffnock.
Earlier this month, a swan sustained injuries at Straiton Pond Nature Reserve in Midlothian and the most recent report was at Victoria Park in Glasgow.
Scottish SPCA animal rescue officer Aidan McIver said: “A concerned member of the public had contacting us after finding a swan with significant puncture wounds under both wings and bleeding from the mouth [at a local park].
“He was also unable to walk on his right leg.
“The injuries were consistent with a dog attack.
“The swan would have experienced immense pain and suffering due to the severity of the wounds. After seeking veterinary advice, the sad decision was made to put the swan to sleep.
“This is a stark reminder to dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead around swans, and all wildlife, at all times.
“Anyone with information about either of these incidents should contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 where calls can be taken anonymously.”
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