Welsh rural bodies issue responsible dog walking reminder

With large crowds expected at outdoor attractions this bank holiday weekend – including Pen y Fan, the highest peak in south Wales – three rural organisations have issued a joint reminder about responsible dog ownership.

NFU Cymru, Dyfed-Powys Police and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority engaged with visitors to the highest peak in the park ahead of the school holidays and bank holiday to share information on how everyone can enjoy the great outdoors while protecting wildlife and farm animals.

See also: Dog attacks becoming more severe, sheep worrying survey reveals

The advice included:

• Keeping dogs under close control on a short lead
• Reminding dog owners of the need to use a suitable lead and to carry a spare
• Explaining the importance of dog recall in preventing incidents with livestock and ground-nesting birds
• Picking up dog waste and disposing of it responsibly by taking it home or putting it in a bin.

“Wales’s iconic landscapes attract millions of visitors every year and we all have a vested interest in ensuring everyone enjoying the countryside – whether on two legs or four – can do so safely,” said NFU Cymru Brecon and Radnor county adviser Stella Owen.

Protecting wildlife

To help protect wildlife, including ground-nesting birds, people have also been asked to stick to paths and keep their dogs on leads when walking on common land.

“Bannau Brycheiniog is home to ground-nesting birds like skylarks, meadow pipits, red grouse and curlews, as well as hares and other vulnerable species.

“These animals are especially at risk during the breeding season.

“Even the most well-behaved dogs can accidentally disturb or destroy nests and young wildlife,” explained Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority curlew and people project officer Róisín Normanly.

Reports ‘taken seriously’

PC Charlie Jones, from the Powys rural crime team, added that the police regularly receive reports of livestock worrying from farmers, landowners and the public.

“We take all of these incidents very seriously and investigate each report thoroughly,” he said.

If there is sufficient evidence, he added, action can be taken against the dog owner.

Anyone who witnessing such an incident is urged to contact police immediately.