The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) is offering advice for dog walks in the countryside to help a reported 2.2 million new dog owners understand how to protect their pet while keeping farm animals safe.
The CLA recommends dog walkers take the following action:
– Ensure your dog is under control. Keep your dog on a lead and only let go if you are chased by livestock
– Never let your dog worry or chase wildlife or livestock. Follow advice on local signs to reduce disturbance to plants and animals
– Prevent your dog from approaching horse riders, cyclists or other people and their dogs uninvited
– Keep your dog with you on paths or access land and don’t let it stray into crops including fields of grass, fruit and vegetables
– Never leave bags of dog poo lying around, even if you intend to pick them up later. Containers and deodorised bags can make them easier to carry
– Ensure your details are on your dog’s collar and it is microchipped so you can be reunited quickly if it is lost
Mark Riches, CLA Midlands regional director,…