By Vet Graham Lewis
With the drier weather there’s no better time to get out in the countryside for walks with your dog.
Although dog walking is not usually a high intensity exercise it is good for cardiovascular development, strengthening muscles and bones and lowering blood pressure. It is also great for mental wellbeing – for both you and your dog.
Plus, there is a special enjoyment in exploring the countryside with your canine best friend.
But things can and do go wrong. Here are a few tips to help you make sure your dog walks are safe, fun and trouble free.
Most importantly, remember that spring is lambing time and increasing numbers of livestock appear in the countryside.
It is essential your dog is not a nuisance to any livestock, horses or wildlife. Dogs do not have to be on a lead on public paths as long as they are under close control. But if you cannot completely rely on your dog’s obedience, it’s best to keep them on the lead.
By law, dogs must be on a lead from March to July on open access land such as fells, to protect ground nesting birds. And they must be on a lead around livestock all year round. Farmers are legally entitled to destroy a dog which injures or worries their animals.
Every year sheep and lambs are killed and injured by dogs running loose. Chasing can cause miscarriages and mismothering of lambs, too.
Many owners are caught out because their dog behaves well at home or in the park. But all dogs can suddenly give chase when they encounter livestock, or when an animal appears unexpectedly or startles and runs.
It’s a good idea to avoid cows with calves which can be aggressive to walkers with dogs.
At this time of the year ticks become more common and they can transmit Lyme disease. Check your dog’s tick preventative treatments are up to date.
As more dogs are outdoors mixing at this time, it is also important to make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.
Remember to take poo bags with you. And it helps to be considerate to other walkers and dogs, by putting your dog on a lead when you pass.
With a little care, your dog will be a welcome and much-admired companion in the countryside, and you will both have the best time.
If you'd like to explore a new walk, our free guide to six of the best Cumbrian dog walks Come On, Let’s Go is available to download here.