Park Talk: Do the right thing this spring when walking your dog
13th March 2025
By Duncan Miller, farmer and Cairngorms National Park Authority board member
Spring is one of the most important times of the year for sheep and cattle farmers. To help ensure a successful lambing and calving season and prevent any injury or stress to animals it is extremely important to ensure dogs are always under close control – or even better – on a lead when close to fields with pregnant ewes and newborn lambs and calves.
Loose dogs around pregnant ewes, lambs and calves can have catastrophic impacts, from miscarriage to injuries or death as a direct result of being chased or attacked by dogs. In addition, cows with newborn calves can be very protective and dangerous, especially when they see dogs.
While cases of livestock worrying in the Cairngorms National Park are low, there have already been some instances this year. It continues to be a serious concern for the National Park’s farmers and crofters.
Dog fouling is another concern, with parasites found in some dog faeces having the potential to result in abortions in cattle and death in sheep. Though you’re away from the pavements and parks of our towns and villages, it’s still important that you pick up after your dog when out walking near farmland.
Occasionally, you might discover a sheep on its back, which can be life threatening for them. If you see this, you should attempt to inform the farmer first. If this isn’t possible, calmly approach the sheep and roll it back onto its feet.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code and the Protection of Livestock legislation are clear when it comes to the responsibilities that dog owners have when walking close to farmland – a dog caught amongst sheep could mean a significant fine for the owner.
Most people who live in and visit the National Park walk their dogs responsibly, and I hope the longer, milder days mean that everyone can get out and enjoy the outdoors more. However, as we move through March into peak lambing and calving season, I’m writing this reminder to encourage all dog owners to do the right thing. Two of the most important things you can do to support livestock farmers in the National Park over the next few months are keeping your dog on a lead near farmland and closing gates behind you if you come across them whilst walking.