Dog walkers in the Peak District

Dog owners are being asked to take the lead by a national park.

Although walkers do not legally have to keep their dogs on a leash while on a public path, they must have them under control so they do not scare wildlife and farm animals. However, the authority in the Peak District national park today issued a reminder that dogs must be on a lead at this time of year while on Open Access Land.

The advice was issued jointly with the Kennel Club and the national park’s rangers, as ground-nesting birds and other wildlife are at risk from dogs not kept under close control. In addition, dogs are not allowed on some areas of Open Access Land.

National park field services area manager Jenny Waller said: “We are delighted to see people walking their dogs in the countryside, but we ask them to keep their pets on short, 2m leads during this particularly sensitive time, from March 1 until July 31.

“Sheep and lambs can be badly injured by uncontrolled dogs during the lambing season. Ground-nesting birds like curlew and lapwing, and wild creatures such as hares, are also easily disturbed.

“Legally, you do not have to use a lead on public paths as long as the dog is under close control, but we ask dog owners to be extra-vigilant in the breeding season, and always clip on the lead if you cannot rely on your dog’s obedience.

“For its own safety, never let your dog approach or chase wildlife and farm animals: your dog can get kicked, trampled or lost, and it could be shot for chasing livestock.

“If cattle turn on your dog, the best advice is to follow the Countryside Code – unclip the lead – don’t risk getting hurt by trying to protect it. Get out of the field as quickly as possible, then call your dog as soon as you are out of danger.”

The advice follows a similar plea from the North York Moors National Park Authority last month.

Kennel Club communications director Caroline Kisko said: “Dog owners have a responsibility under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act to keep their dogs on a lead around wildlife between March 1 and July 31 and at any time in the vicinity of livestock.

“The countryside is for all to enjoy but dog owners must be respectful of this issue when walking their dog.”

The Peak District National Park Authority said dog owners should obey any signs relating to access with dogs in the area. Information on access restrictions can also be found on the official Open Access website.

Anyone who spots worrying or other suspicious behaviour involving dogs can either contact the police in the area on 0345 123 3333 or Peak District national park rangers on 01433 670216 (weekends) or 01629 816290 (weekdays).