Pershore Dog Owners Warned Following Swan Deaths

Fri, 16 Apr 2010

Dog owners in the Pershore area have been told that they must keep their pets on dog leads after a series of attacks led to the death of several swans in the town’s wetlands site. In the past three weeks, three swans have been killed by dogs, including a mating pair – an incident which has infuriated local preservationists.

Jan Harrigan from Wychbold Swan Rescue has been called in to advise on the situation, and voiced her surprise that pet owners had allowed the possibility of the attacks to take place. Mrs Harrigan called on anyone who knew which dogs had committed the attacks to come forward, revealing a reward was on offer if anyone could correctly name the owner of the animals .

The RSPCA has reminded animal owners of the penalties attached to such instances. Under the Animal Welfare Act, anyone found to be causing unnecessary suffering to swans may face up to six months in prison and/or a fine of up to £20,000.

Vets and local wardens have also urged dog owners to keep their animals on a lead, as fines of up to £5,000 may apply given the sensitivity of the issue to locals.

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