A WARNING of the dangers of dogs being off their leads around wildlife has been issued by an animal charity after a swan was badly injured.

The RSPCA believes the bird received its 'terrible' neck injuries after being attacked by a dog at Bowness, although the incident was not witnessed.

The swan was picked up by the RSPCA from the bay area on Wednesday April 6, after a call from a concerned member of the public.

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RSPCA inspector Will Lamping said: “The swan was standing with its head down when I arrived.

“It was very lethargic and blood and tearing wounds were clearly visible around its neck.

“I took the swan straight over to Kendal College Animal Rescue Centre where they anaesthetised the swan, cleaned out the wounds and stitched it back up.

“They cared for the swan until it had made a full recovery and was able to be released.”

The college’s Animal Rescue Centre is the first of its kind, with specialist wildlife rehabilitation and on-site vets who work directly with local RSPCA officers to help animals and give their students chance to learn at the same time.

The swan was released on Windermere 12 days after being found.

“In this case there is a happy ending, and the fantastic work of the College Animal Rescue Centre has paid off, with this swan recovering and being released, but the whole thing might have been avoided,” said Inspector Lamping.

“Owners should always keep their dog - no matter how predictable they may feel they are - on a lead around wildlife to avoid things like this from happening. I’ve attended many dead and injured swans around the Lakes before which are believed to have been caused by dogs.”