Dog owners urged to be mindful at north east Wales beauty spots this half-term

Dog owners are being urged to be mindful whilst walking at beauty spots across north east Wales this half term.

With the first school break of the year upon us, many will be heading to the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley to enjoy some time off.

With visitor numbers expected to surge over the next week,  Denbighshire County Council and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape are reminding dog owners to act responsibly as more people prepare to visit the area’s countryside hotspots during the upcoming holiday.

Both bodies are urging people to follow important advice to keep pets on leads whilst walking through the countryside with lambing season fast approaching and many pregnant ewes on the land.

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

Visitors are urged to make themselves aware of restrictions and guidelines in place at the area they choose to visit and to keep themselves, their pets and others safe.

People should also check ahead to see if countryside facilities are open and also park responsibly in designated areas.

Councillor Alan James, Lead Member for Local Development and Planning said: “We fully appreciate that many dog owners visiting our countryside areas are respectful and take care to keep their pets on a lead and I would like to thank them for making this effort.

“However, we are aware that there is a minority who do not follow the rules and we are appealing to them to remember that they are ultimately responsible for their dog while walking through the countryside this half term.

“Dog 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 extremely distressing to all and an outcome we want to prevent for all.

“If you are bringing your dog to one of our countryside walks this holiday, please always plan ahead, know the land you are going to walk through, respect the countryside code and always keep your dog on a lead.”

For more information, visit https://www.clwydianrangeanddeevalleyaonb.org.uk/ and follow the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape on Facebook and X.