Out & About Magazine Autumn 2020

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Enjoy the countryside with your dog - #TAKETHELEAD Tips and advice from NFU (National Farmers’ Union) South East on enjoying the countryside while being a responsible dog walker

cause disease in humans and farm animals. n Follow paths and observe official signs. n Ensure your dog doesn’t wander off paths, into crops (which are being grown for food) or where it may disturb wildlife. n See The Countryside Code: www.gov.uk/ government/publica- tions/the-countryside-code n Ordnance Survey maps show public footpaths, byways and wider access www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk Remember, only let your dog off the lead if chased by cattle and get yourself to safety. Don’t risk getting hurt by trying to protect your pet. www.nfuonline.com

n As a general rule, use a lead in the countryside as livestock may be around the corner. n Always use a lead near farm animals. It is important to control your dog so it doesn’t scare or harm farm animals. Sheep can die of shock if chased and pregnant ewes can lose their lambs. n Don’t endanger your pet by letting it run freely as even the best behaved dog has a chase instinct. The law allows farmers to shoot dogs that are threatening farm animals. It is an offence to let your dog chase or attack livestock. n Using a lead will ensure you don’t lose your pet in the countryside where it might become trapped, scared or injured in unfamiliar surroundings. n Pick up poo, bag it and bin it. Dog mess is not only unpleasant – it can

Enjoy the countryside with your dog Enjoy a fun and safe visit to the countryside with your dog by following our tips. Always • Keep your dog on a lead near sheep and cattle • Bag and bin poo • Follow paths and observe signs • Only release your dog if chased by cattle Share pics of your

pooch walking on a lead #takethelead

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