Walkers should take care around cattle, the Ramblers said
The Ramblers are advising walkers to take care in the countryside where there is livestock.
A dog was killed and its owner injured when they were attacked by cattle in the Yorkshire Dales last week.
The Ramblers and National Farmers’ Union said the advice was aimed particularly at walkers with dogs.
Nicky Philpott, Ramblers campaigns and policy director, said: “Now is the perfect time to go for a walk in the countryside and explore our wonderful network of paths.
“However the countryside is also a working environment and it’s important to be mindful of that, especially at this time of year when farm animals are rearing their young.”
NFU livestock board chairman Charles Sercombe said: “Be sympathetic to farm animals rearing their young and give them space.
“If you feel threatened by animals protecting their territory or young, do not run, move to the edge of the field, and if possible find another way round.
“The countryside is a beautiful place to walk in. However, it is a working environment where animals graze. So it’s important to take care and be mindful of your surroundings so you can fully enjoy the experience.”
Walkers should try to avoid getting between cows and their calves and be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you.
Other advice from the Ramblers is to move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd. Walkers should keep their dogs close and under effective control on a lead around cows and sheep.
Don’t put yourself at risk; find another way round the cattle and rejoin the footpath as soon as possible and don’t panic or run; most cattle will stop before they reach you. If they follow just walk on quietly.
Don’t hang onto your dog if you are threatened by cattle; let it go as the cattle will chase the dog.
A dog was killed and its owner injured when they were attacked by cattle in the Yorkshire Dales last week
Marcus Crompton
13 June 2013Having had lots of experience with livestock and dogs I can add a bit more:
1. If you've a small dog, simply pick it up if cattle seem interested in it. They usually lose interest as soon as it's no longer independently mobile.
2. Always face the enemy! A fleeing human is just asking to be chased.
3. Large animals can be turned but not held - a shove on the shoulder of an oncoming beast is better than a shove in the face.
4. Be wary early in the season: animals who have just been turned out in a new environment sometimes panic and you can start a stampede - if cattle start running in random directions, get to a boundary and get out of there.
5. Look out for bold ewes. Some of them will charge at a dog and you need to be ready to prevent your dog from defending itself (it will probably injure or kill the ewe). It's a good idea to muzzle your dog if there are ewes with lambs about.