Video footage shared online showed the swan squealing out in pain as it was being rescued
The swan was taken for veterinary care (Image: Submitted)
A dog ‘savaged and killed’ a swan in an attack at New Islington Marina on Wednesday afternoon (July 16), according to horrified witnesses.
Emergency crews and the RSPCA were reportedly called out to the incident on the Rochdale Canal involving a dog that was said to have been off its lead, before it attacked a white swan.
Video footage shared online showed the swan squealing out in pain as it was being rescued. Witnesses claimed the dog attacked two swans at the marina on Wednesday before the owner left the scene.
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“A serious dog attack took place today by the New Islington marina and unfortunately, it has resulted in one of the two adult swans who have been there for a number of years having to be put down by the vets,” one nearby resident told the M.E.N.
“We are extremely angry about what has taken place. Many of us have watched the swans grow and raise their young every year at this marina, they had become a symbol of New Islington.”
The swan was later rescued from the canal near Miles Platting, according to social media posts, and taken for veterinary care, where it was later reportedly put to sleep.
“Devastating! Those swans have been here as long as I can remember,” one post said, as another person wrote: “No!!! I’m so frustrated and sad I can’t believe this! We’ve been watching them for years having new cygnets every year, I’m devastated.”
“This is heartbreaking. Thanks to everyone who tried to save it from the dog,” said another.
The RSPCA and Greater Manchester Police have been approached for a statement.
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