Walkers reminded to Keep Dogs under Control in Snowdonia.

By: Iain Thomas
The new right of access was introduced in Wales on 31st May last year. Owing to a great deal of good will and the long tradition of walking in the uplands, the new legislation has been brought in fairly smoothly in Snowdonia. Cattle and sheep graze most of the country, which was mapped and made available for walking. Snowdonia National Park Authority is reminding walkers who are also dog owners to make sure that their dogs are under control at all times.
The Act states that from 1st March to the 31 July, dogs must be on fixed leads, no longer than 2 metres. This is to avoid disturbance to nesting birds. The law also states that dogs should be on a fixed lead, no longer than 2 metres, all year round when “in the vicinity of livestock”, which the Authority has interpreted to mean most of the uplands in Snowdonia.
Barbara Jones, Snowdonia National Park Authority’s Head of Warden and Access service, said that it was very important that dog owners were made aware of this condition before walking on “Open Country”:
“Unfortunately, dogs do a great deal of damage, particularly to sheep which are heavily pregnant or which have just given birth, and it is important to remember that even a normally well behaved dog can cause enough stress and disturbance to kill both sheep and lambs.
We are also concerned that dog owners may not be aware of the danger which cattle can pose, particularly when they have calves at foot. Dogs can arouse protective instincts in cattle, and we strongly advise members of the public, when accompanied by dogs, to avoid cattle whenever possible. If pursued, they should release the dog’s lead, and concentrate on their own safety.
We wish to ensure that everyone will enjoy their experience in the countryside, but in helping us to achieve this, all we’re asking is for everyone to respect the countryside and to behave responsibly.”
Guidance on how to enjoy and help look after the countryside with your dog can be found in the “You and Your Dog in the Countryside” leaflet produced by CCW which can be obtained from Snowdonia National Park Information Centres at Betws y Coed, Beddgelert, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Dolgellau, Aberdyfi or Harlech.

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