Swan badly injured in dog attack

A swan with a wound to its chest has been rescued by wildlife experts after it was attacked by an "out of control" dog in East Sussex.

Volunteers from East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service were called to Hove Lagoon on Wednesday.

Appealing for witnesses to the attack, duty co-ordinator Maz Marriot said the swan's wound was "down to the bone".

The attack is believed to be the second in as many weeks at the site. The bird is being cared for at a swan sanctuary.

Hove Lagoon is currently partially drained for maintenance and the water level is low enough for a dog to jump in and chase the swans.

I hope the owner of this dog is feeling guilty... this is sick and despicable Trevor Weeks, WRAS

East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service (WRAS) rescue co-ordinator, Trevor Weeks, said it had agreed with Brighton and Hove City Council that volunteers would monitor the lake when the work began, and move the swans to a safe place.

But Mr Weeks said new officers were not aware of the arrangement and WRAS was not contacted.

"The site is not the best for swans and this dog attack adds to the case.

"We have also had swans with badly cut legs and other injuries as a result of either dogs, people, glass and other items in the lagoon.

"I hope the owner of this dog is feeling guilty... this is sick and despicable," he said.