Dogsey

LOOSE dogs have been terrorising deer in Ayr’s Belleisle Park in the dead of night.

The revelation comes after two terrified Bambis died trying to flee the hounds last year.

The innocent pair were killed making desperate attempts to scale a thick wall bordering Doonfoot Road to escape the mutts.

Despite the deaths, owners have been letting their rampant pets run wild in the deer’s special fenced-off sanctuary again.

Residents are worried sick and have demanded an end to the senseless behaviour.

Olena Stewart, of Friends of Belleisle group, said: “This is awful and has to stop. I can’t understand how anyone would let their dogs off the leash.

“We are so concerned about the welfare of the deer. The animals are getting old now and we don’t want them to endure this. There is a lot of concern about this among people.”

The herd’s peril has been reported to police and Friends of Belleisle members have been distributing warning posters.

Lesley Bloomer, Executive Director, Economy, Neighbourhood and Environment for South Ayrshire Council said: “We’re working closely with Friends of Belleisle regarding the small number of dog owners whose dogs make the lives of the deer in the enclosure at the park a misery.

“The majority of dog owners are very responsible and enjoy exercising their dogs in Belleisle and keep them under control.

“The irresponsible behaviour of a few dog owners is not acceptable and we ask all dog owners to respect South Ayrshire.

“We’re working with Police Scotland to monitor this situation.

“I would urge anyone with relevant information to contact the police. We would advise that the owner of any dog that is found control by our Environmental Health Officers to be out of control may be served with a Dog Control Notice.”

The adorable deer are a big attraction for visitors to the beautiful park.
The shy animals are thought to number half a dozen and they are believed to be about 14-years-old.

Residents are being asked to remain vigilant and report any information on roaming dogs to the police by phoning 101.

The deer park is protected under a scheme run by charity Fields in Trust.