Walking with dogs and on Farmland

WALKING ON FARM LAND AND WITH DOGS - PLANNING AHEAD
Dogs should be kept under close control i.e. on a short leash when passing near all farm animals. At all other times you should have proper control of the dog to avoid nuisance or concern to other path users. Lambing season on and around Conic Hill is usually between mid April and mid May, exact dates will be on the web site nearer the time. An alternative route will be marked by the Ranger Service.

COW FIELDS
Cows are normally docile creatures and usually only show interest in you if there is food on offer, don’t be tempted to feed the animals. But they are sizeable and a herd heading towards you can be a bit intimidating. It could be in that situation that your dog may bark or become aggressive and that is when cows maybe become aggressive, especially if they have calves with them. Do not do anything to cause alarm to the animals- pass quietly, carefully and well away from the animals. If in doubt find another route around the animal(s).

• Do not come between cows and their calves.
• Stay well away from any farm animal grouping or herd.
• Watch the animals as you pass and be alert to any danger.
• Keep your dog on a leash.
• Be prepared for cows to react to your presence especially if you have a dog.
• Move quickly and quietly around the herd.
• If the cows become aggressive then calmly get yourself out of danger, let the dog go and call it to you when you are safe.

Every situation is different but please remember that you are on someone else’s land and if there are farm animals around it is a working environment.

Please refer to the Scottish Outdoor Acess Code for more information-

http://www.outdooraccess-scotland.com/out-and-about/places/on-the-farm/