A DOG attack in Musselburgh resulted in the death of a young swan.

The incident occurred at the boating pond at Levenhall Links on Wednesday.

Staff from East Lothian Council attended the scene.

A Musselburgh resident told the Courier that the community has been left "gutted" by the incident.

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: "On Wednesday, June 19, an incident occurred which resulted in the cygnet at Levenhall Links boating pond being killed by a dog.

"East Lothian Council staff arrived on scene and the appropriate action is being taken.

"Signage reminding people about keeping dogs on leads and under close control around the wildlife nesting on the site, and in particular about the swan and cygnet at the boating pond, have been repeatedly torn down in recent months.

"The Countryside Ranger Service would like to reiterate the message that people with dogs require to have them under full control when near wildlife and livestock, and preferably on a lead."

The council has given additional advice following the incident:

  • Keep your dog on a short lead or close at heel during breeding season (usually April to August) and in areas where there are ground nesting birds breeding and rearing their young such as moorland, forests, grassland, loch shores and the seashore;
  • Do not allow your dog to approach animals or people uninvited;
  • Where possible, avoid animals;
  • Always keep your dog in sight and under control – if in doubt, use a lead;
  • Always bag and bin dog poo – take it home when bins aren’t available.