Horror after dog savages muntjac
DOG owners are being urged to keep their pets under control around a woodland after a savage attack on a deer.
Ken Coventry tried to distract a large dog as it was chasing a young muntjac deer close to Reffley Woods on Monday afternoon.
Minutes later he heard squeals and went into the woodland to find the badly injured deer dying.
The Woodland Trust is calling on dog owners to keep their animals under control.
Mr Coventry, of South Wootton, said: “I am very angry and worried. My biggest concern is that the dog will attack other dogs or a child.”
Mr Coventry said the dog chased the deer twice and heard two screams from the muntjac at about 3pm.
After going into the woodland following the second squeal, he discovered the deer with injuries to its back.
He ran back to his home to call the RSCPA and to collect towels to keep the animal warm. Sadly it died within 15 minutes, before the officer arrived.
Woodland Trust site manager Michael Ryder said the woodland boasts native and non-native wildlife.
He said: “Dog owners using our woods should please observe the Countryside Code, in particular in keeping them under close control at all times.
“We cannot be responsible for the actions of those using our woods and it’s only when incidents such as this occur that people will realise the potential dangers if dogs are not kept under reasonable control.”
An RSPCA spokesman advised Mr Coventry to contact the dog warden.
She said: “All dog owners have the responsibility to have charge and control of their dog in a public place.
“Responsible dog owners should keep their dogs on a lead when walking by other animals.”
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Weather for King's Lynn
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 9 C to 26 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
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