Police urge dog owners to '˜act responsibly' around livestock this summer

Derbyshire police have appealed to members of the public not to let their dogs off the lead when crossing farmland this summer.
Stock picture.Stock picture.
Stock picture.

The appeal follows a number of complaints, including two in the Codnor Park and Ironville area, about irresponsible behaviour around livestock.

This has included letting dogs roam off the lead around farm animals, and not closing gates in fields where livestock are grazing.

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PCSO Meikel Miller of the local Safer Neighbourhood policing team said: “It is really important that when people are walking across farmland, even where there is a public right of way, that they are responsible and considerate, and follow the Countryside Code, particularly around livestock and wildlife.

“The main complaints we have received have been around dogs being let off the lead, and there was one incident where someone left a gate open and cattle got out onto the main road.

“Legally you must control your dog so that it does not disturb other animals and on most areas of open country and common land you must keep your dog on a short lead when near to livestock.

“Make sure you leave gates as you find them, whether that is open or shut, and latched or tied as well.”

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“We want everyone to be able enjoy the countryside, but remember if you are on farmland that it is a working environment.

“Please be responsible and courteous when out and help keep the local wildlife, farm animals and your own dog safe.”

More advice and information is available in the Countryside Code.

You can read and download the Countryside Code at www.gov.uk.

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