A SWAN has died after being attacked by a dog at a popular East Renfrewshire park.

Dog owners are now being urged to keep their pets under control when visiting Rouken Glen Park following the attack on a young swan near the boating pond on Friday.

A spokesperson for Rouken Glen Park said: "A dog has attacked and killed one of the young swans at the Boating Pond. 

“It is vital that dogs are kept under close control around the boating pond, and the rest of the park, to avoid incidents like this happening.”

The Scottish SPCA told the Barrhead News it was “saddened” to hear of the incident.

Chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: “Attacks such as this can have a devastating effect on wildlife.

“We say it time and again, dogs should be kept on a lead around wild animals. It is the owners' responsibility to ensure their pet is kept under control at all times.

“It is an offence for a dog to be out of control in a public place.”

An East Renfrewshire Council spokesperson added: “Any unacceptable behaviour by dogs is taken extremely seriously and this incident has been reported to the SSPCA. 

"We would encourage all dog owners to be responsible with their pets, and keep their dog under control at all times.

"Owners should also be extra vigilant with dogs around the boating pond where there is a variety of wildlife and is near picnic areas used by families.”