RSPCA issues urgent warning to all dog walkers after 'horrific injuries'

The RSPCA has issued an urgent warning to keep dogs on leads at this time of year when in London parks and other green spaces. The animal body said it sees a range of animals - spanning from deer to ducks - with “horrific injuries” caused by dog attacks.

An RSPCA spokesperson: "If you're heading out to enjoy the spring sunshine please be mindful of wildlife and livestock and if you're taking your dog for a walk, please keep them on the lead in areas where there could be other animals.

"Sadly, we see wildlife such as deer, hedgehogs, ducks, geese and swans coming into the care of our wildlife centres with horrific injuries caused by dog attacks. Many farmers are also left with severely injured livestock following dog attacks. These are incidents that can be easily prevented if we all take responsibility and keep our dogs on leads around other animals.

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"We all want to create a kinder world for all animals and, if we all play our part to take simple steps to be responsible dog owners, then we'll be one step closer to this goal."

There is no blanket law demanding dogs are kept on leads in all public spaces. But certain orders require you to keep them leashed in certain places.

These can be children’s play areas, sports pitches, roads, parks, and beaches. Rule 56 of The Highway Code also says that dogs should be kept on a short lead along roads and on paths shared with horse riders or cyclists.

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