General News
4 July, 2024
Swan killed in Princes Park dog attack
A beloved local swan has died following a dog attack last week at Princes Park, with residents calling for more action on dog owners who walk their pets off lead. Central Goldfields Wildlife Rescue were called to a report on Monday, June 24 at...
A beloved local swan has died following a dog attack last week at Princes Park, with residents calling for more action on dog owners who walk their pets off lead.
Central Goldfields Wildlife Rescue were called to a report on Monday, June 24 at around 2 pm of a dog off lead attacking a swan at Lake Victoria.
The swan died before volunteers could reach the scene.
According to Central Goldfields Shire Council’s current Domestic Animal Management Plan, 48 dog attacks were recorded between 2020 and 2021, with none of those incidents leading to prosecutions or fines.
Central Goldfields Wildlife Rescue’s India Armstrong said more action is needed to protect local wildlife.
“At the moment we are really having a push to ensure that areas like Princes Park and the Goldfields Reservoir are on-leash areas only,” she said.
“There is some signage up but there haven’t been any penalties and infringements for people allowing their animals off leash and with it being the second swan in the last couple of years that has been mauled by a dog, we really need that to change.
“More action needs to be taken by council and from people that are walking the lake as well to remind people to keep their dog secured.”
Ms Armstrong said the incident is a timely reminder that residents are obliged to be responsible pet owners.
“We are losing too many [swans] — they are native animals that are living in their habitat and we should be able to live safely with them,” she said.
“I’m a dog lover, I love taking my dogs for a walk down at the lake but we can all do it safely.
“If you see a swan attack or a swan which is injured, I would definitely recommend giving us a call as well as calling the local council.”
You can contact Central Goldfields Wildlife Rescue on 0499 654 950 or council on 5461-0610.