Swan fatally injured in dog attack in Rotherham

A swan died after an attack by two dogs in Rotherham last weekend – the third incident of its kind dealt with by RSPCA officers in South Yorkshire over recent weeks.
By Claire Lewis
Published 1st May 2020, 15:30 BST
Updated 1st May 2020, 15:31 BST
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The RSPCA was called to Bolton Brick Pond in Bolton-upon-Dearne after the attack at around 8.30am on Saturday, April 25.

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RSPCA Animal Collection Officer Katie Hetherington, who attended, said: “The swan’s injuries were horrific, he had a very badly broken wing and a broken foot.

A third swan has been killed by dogs in South Yorkshire over recent weeks (Pic: Bruce Rollinson)A third swan has been killed by dogs in South Yorkshire over recent weeks (Pic: Bruce Rollinson)
A third swan has been killed by dogs in South Yorkshire over recent weeks (Pic: Bruce Rollinson)
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“He collapsed and was breathing heavily. Sadly there was no choice but to end his suffering.

“Unfortunately this leaves his mate alone with a nest and eggs that she is sitting on too.

“Witnesses said a man was walking two large dogs who attacked the bird, and we would like to speak to him.

“We’d like him, or anyone who knows who he is, to call us.”

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An injured swan was spotted with blood running from a wound on her neck on the River Rother at Woodhouse Mill, Sheffield, on Thursday April 9.

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She was rescued by the RSPCA and officers from South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue then taken to a local veterinary practice.

Two puncture wounds were found, which were cleaned before antibiotics were given and she was released back to her mate, nest and eggs.

Another swan injured by a dog while sitting on a nest at Frecheville Pond, Sheffield, was rescued, treated and released back to her mate, nest and eggs on Thursday, April 2.

RSPCA Chief Inspector Lynsey Harris said: “The previous two swans were very lucky to survive. More often than not that isn’t the case, and sadly this time the swan was fatally hurt.

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“We ask that dog-owners be aware that there may be wild animals present in the area when walking their dog and to keep them under control at all times.”

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

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

Anyone with information about the fatal dog attack should call the RSPCA 0300 1238018.