Council asks dog owners to be responsible during summer holidays

Denbighshire County Council and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB are urging dog owners to act responsibly as more prepare to visit the area’s countryside hotspots during the summer holidays.

Both bodies are sending out advice to keep pets on leads whilst walking through the countryside following incidents already reported on land around Moel Famau this year.

Livestock worrying, where dogs disturb and chase sheep, is illegal. Any caught worrying livestock can be destroyed and owners can be prosecuted.

Visitors should be aware of what restrictions and guidelines are in place and to keep themselves and others safe. People should also check ahead to see if facilities are open and also park responsibly in designated areas.

Councillor Win Mullen James, Denbighshire Cabinet Lead Member for Local Development and Planning, said: “Many dog owners visiting our countryside areas are respectful and do keep their pets on a lead and I would like to thank them for doing this.

“However there is a minority who do not follow the rules and we want to remind them that they ultimately responsible for their dog while walking through the countryside.

“Owners who ignore the rules and let their pets worry livestock in the area can be prosecuted and their dog legally shot if caught in the act. This is distressing to all and an outcome we want to prevent.

“Please always plan ahead if visiting our countryside, know the land you are going to walk through, respect the countryside code and always keep your dog on a lead.”

Extra countryside rangers will be at Moel Famau, Loggerheads and Horseshoe Falls to provide information and support for visiting members of the public.

* For more information, visit https://www.clwydianrangeanddeevalleyaonb.org.uk/ and follow the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB on Facebook and Twitter.