The lesser-known wildlife at risk from walkers and their dogs

Many people think of birds’ nests as being high up in the trees, but a surprising number of birds in the UK nest on the ground. Ground-nesting birds, such as meadow pipits, hide their eggs in grassy areas on commons, whereas willow warblers tuck themselves away at the base of trees and bushes in woodland areas.

Unfortunately, 66%3 of ground-nesting birds are in decline in the UK, and from February through to the end of summer, inquisitive pooches bounding through nesting areas can scare adult birds off before they breed or trample their eggs.

Not only are birds at risk, but dogs can pose a significant threat to sheep and other grazing livestock when walking through private land. Not only can dogs scare or, worse, injure livestock, but their faeces transmit harmful diseases. In 2023, farmers collectively faced costs totalling £2.4million  due to illnesses and injuries caused by dogs walking off-lead on their land.

Etiquette Tips for Your Next Dog Walk in the Countryside

1. Most importantly – keep your dog on a lead

While walking through the countryside with your canine companion, it’s important to notice any signs around you and keep your dog on a lead if you’re unaware of your surroundings. Although letting our dogs bound through meadows for much-needed exercise is tempting, their presence can scare and harm wildlife.

It is illegal to let your dog off the lead on ‘open access land’ (moorland, forests, lakes, or beaches) between March and July, in order to protect ground-nesting birds.  Keeping your dog on a lead in high-grass areas can also prevent injuries from threatened wildlife, such as grass snakes.

2. Clean up after your dog

Picking up after your dog isn’t just good manners, it’s essential for keeping the environment and other animals safe. Dog mess can cause serious problems for wildlife, and dog faeces can carry detrimental illnesses. If you find that there are limited waste disposal bins around, don’t be tempted to leave the mess behind – this is not only unpleasant for other walkers, it’s hazardous to the environment.

3. Check for ticks

It’s not just the wildlife you should be looking out for, but your dog too! After your walk, thoroughly check your dog for ticks, especially if you’ve been walking through tall grass or wooded areas. Ticks can cause irritation and carry diseases, so do a thorough check of your dog’s fur if you’ve been through a particularly grassy area.

4. Make sure you’re in control

As dog owners, we’re legally responsible for everything our dog does, so it’s important to be in control. If your dog damages someone’s property or injures an animal, it can not only cause a lot of heartache but also put dog owners at risk of prosecution for any damages.

Make sure your dog’s collar and harness fit well so they can’t slip or wriggle out of it. Brush up on your dog’s training – ensuring your dog has a good recall is essential! Lastly, pack some tasty treats that you know your dog can’t resist. If you need to grab your pet’s attention at any time, the treats could help.

This information and advice form part of a piece of research that identifies the best areas in the UK to walk your dog without disturbing wildlife.

The study found that:

• The South West boasts the most wildlife-safe dog walks of which St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall was voted the most picturesque

• Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway is the most beautiful dog and wildlife-friendly national trust location.

Please see the full research here: https://www.dogfriendlyretreats.com/blog/how-to-protect-wildlife-when-walking-your-dogs/.