With the lambing season well underway, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is reminding dog owners of the responsibilities that come with the right to roam and is also offering free poop scoops. Scotland has by far the best access legislation for walkers in the UK; allowing access to most land. With those rights come a number of responsibilities which are outlined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. At this time of year the main concern for dog owners is to ensure that dogs do not disturb livestock with young and also ground nesting birds.
SNH has summarised the main issues for dog owners:
GROUND-NESTING BIRDS: During the breeding season (April – July) keep your dog on a short lead or under close control in areas such as moorland, grasslands, loch shores and the seashore to avoid disturbing birds that nest on the ground.
FARM ANIMALS: Never let your dog worry or attack farm animals. Don’t take your dog into fields with young farm animals.
SAFETY AROUND CATTLE: Cattle can act aggressively. Keep yourself and your dog at a safe distance and if necessary let your dog go so that you can both seek safety.
PLANTED FIELDS: Don’t take your dog into fruit and vegetable fields unless there is a clear path.
PUBLIC PLACES: Keep your dog under close control and avoid causing concern to others, especially those who fear dogs.
DOG WASTE: Pick up and dispose of carefully even on farmland.
For further details on the Access Code and how to get your hands on the free poop scoops see the SNH website.