Page 6 - Phonebox Magazine May 2012

Dear Sir
So, once more, for all those who think it is okay for their dogs to chase the birds,
Through your magazine I would like to make a plea to the dog owners who walk their dogs around Emberton Country Park asking them
to ensure that their dogs are under proper control. In making this plea I am aware that
it isn't. Please do exercise that control. Not doing so
the vast majority of dog owners do take that care. Unfortunately a small majority
do not exercise that control.
reflects very badly on the vast majority of dog owners who care not only for their dogs but for the wildlife
At around 9.30 on the morning of Tuesday 3rd April I witnessed one such uncontrolled dog chasing two Canada Geese, one of which was already suffering injury from twine wrapped around one of its legs. The dog owner walked off towards Emberton Village, apparently unconcerned that her dog had chased the birds. Perhaps she is one of those owners who believe it is not a problem as long as their dogs do not actually hurt the birds. After all, or so they probably believe, their dogs are only having a bit of fun, doing what dogs do. Perhaps those owners are not aware that if their dogs do injure a bird in the wild then they could be committing a criminal offence, as it would be if those dogs attacked and injured any young child.
as well.
Perhaps it was just such an owner whose dog attacked and severely injured one of the white geese in the Park on the morning of March 20th. The goose was so severly injured that it could not stand, it could only drag itself along on its stomach. I dread to think of the pain it must have been in when attempting to move, as it tried to do when a fisherman thought it was okay to plonk his equipment within a few feet of the injured bird. The bird was eventually taken to be treated for its injuries. Despite receiving the best of, free, treatment the bird died. Not from its injuries, but from shock. So, if anyone is wondering where the white goose with black markings on its head is, it is no longer with us, thanks to the lack of care shown by one dog owner. For those who think they may recognise the bird, and may wish to remember it, here is a photograph of it, taken on one warm sunny morning.
Celebrating Easter
Yours sincerely J.B. of Olney
As part of our end of term Easter celebrations,
the children, staff and parents had lots of fun
taking part in the annual Lovat Hall Pre-school
Easter Egg Hunt. All children received a chocolate egg after the event which they thoroughly enjoyed!!
The staff and children worked very hard to make this year’s Easter Performance a mini-play! All the children dressed up and together with some favourite spring time songs, the event was a huge success.
A big thank you to everyone who attended the performance for purchasing raffle tickets and programmes, making this a great fundraising event.
6 Phonebox Magazine