The Easter break is fast approaching and is a popular time for walkers to get out and enjoy the countryside. With around 3.6 billion tourist trips to the countryside each year, walkers make up 18 per cent of all visitors to rural areas. Today, the NFU and Ramblers are joining forces with a timely reminder for people to take care when out in fields with livestock .
Figures show that walking is on the increase with round 954,700 more walkers than there were five years ago. But with this increase comes extra responsibility.
NFU livestock board chairman Alistair Mackintosh said: “The countryside is a pleasure to walk in but it is also working land, where animals graze. As with any working environment it’s important that those who visit are aware of any risks and take care.
“We joined forces with the Ramblers back in 2009 to encourage walkers to keep dogs on leads when walking in fields with livestock. Of course farmers must also take care to ensure that animals in fields are safe. There are some simple things that people should do to minimise the risk of an accident happening such as not walking between a cow and its calf and keeping dogs under control on a lead.
“Walkers also need to be aware of the risk unleashed dogs pose to sheep and lambs as they can chase and, in certain circumstances, attack and kill. These simple precautions all go a long way to ensuring people can continue enjoying the countryside - and safely.”
Thankfully incidents where members of the public have been hurt or killed by livestock while walking through fields are very rare, but both farmers and walkers have a part to play in minimising any potential dangers.
Tom Franklin, Ramblers Chief Executive, said: “The British countryside is working land where animals roam in close proximity to walkers, which is why it’s such a pleasure to walk in. Farmers are aware of their responsibilities and the need to protect the safety of anyone who may come into contact with livestock. However the public can also play its role in reducing the risk of an accident by following the Ramblers’ advice.”
Advice from the Ramblers:
Do
• Try to avoid getting between cows and their calves.
• Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you.
• Move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd.
• Keep your dog close and under effective control on a lead around cows and sheep
Don’t
• Don’t hang onto your dog. If you are threatened by cattle - let it go as the cattle will chase the dog.
• Don’t put yourself at risk. Find another way round the cattle and rejoin the footpath as soon as possible.
• Don’t panic or run. Most cattle will stop before they reach you. If they follow just walk on quietly.
The NFU is the voice of British farming and provides professional representation and services to its farmer and grower members.
