RSPCA issues plea after repeated swan attacks in Sheffield

Rescuers from the animal welfare charity were called to help the injured swan who had been spotted with blood running from a wound on her neck on the River Rother at Woodhouse Mill on Thursday (April 9).

RSPCA Chief Inspector Lynsey Harris said: “We ask that dog owners be aware there may be wild animals present in the area when walking their dog and to keep their dog under control at all times.

“The swan had been sat on a nest and is part of a mating pair who live on the river. She was rescued by our team and officers from South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue before being examined by Peak Vets.”

Dog owners have a legal responsibility under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to keep their dog under control in a public place.

Ms Harris added: “Two puncture wounds were found, which were cleaned before antibiotics were given and she was released back on the water. This swan was very lucky to survive - sadly we are called to cases when swans have been killed in dog attacks.”

The plea comes after the same rescue teams helped another swan who had been injured by a dog while sitting on a nest at Frecheville Pond on April 2.

Swans, their nests and their eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.