Visiting the countryside with dogs
Due to Wyre being a sheep farming area, it is likely you will meet sheep when walking your dog. It is every dog’s instinct to chase, even if they are usually obedient and good with other animals. Being chased by dogs can cause serious damage to sheep, even if the dog doesn’t catch them. The stress of worrying about dogs can cause sheep to die, and pregnant ewes to miscarry their lambs.
For more advice about walking your dog around sheep visit the National Sheep Association website.
Wyres countryside is also an important breeding area for ground nesting birds such as lapwing, curlew, oyster catcher, and redshank. The breeding season, between 1 March - 31 July, is a particularly vulnerable time for ground nesting birds. Disturbed birds may be stopped from settling. If already nesting they will fly away from their nests, neglecting their eggs or chicks.
For more advice about walking your dog around birds visit the RSPB website
When out with your dog:
- Keep your dog on a lead at all times, especially when near farm animals.
- Keep a lookout for signs and notices informing you of the rules to be followed around livestock.