The RSPCA has clarified the legal restrictions dog owners need to be aware of when walking their pets, including protections for wild birds and recently strengthened penalties for livestock worrying.
Eloise Dicks, companion animals expert at the RSPCA, said: "There are a number of laws and countryside rules that cat and dog owners need to be aware of, particularly when exercising dogs in the countryside."
She pointed out that under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, protections apply to wild birds, including their nests and eggs. Under these rules, it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or take a wild bird, or to damage or destroy certain nests and eggs.
Owner responsibility for pet actions
However, this does not automatically mean that if a dog kills a wild bird, the owner has broken the law. Ms Dicks explained: "A pet killing a wild bird would not automatically mean that their owner has committed an offence. The circumstances and the owner's actions would need to be considered, for instance if the owner had been found to be encouraging the behaviour."
Local restrictions may also apply depending on the area. Ms Dicks said: "Dog owners should also be aware that there can be local and seasonal restrictions on where dogs can go and whether they need to be kept on a lead."
Under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, dogs on access land must be kept on a lead of no more than two metres when around livestock. There are also restrictions designed to protect ground-nesting birds during the breeding season.
Strengthened livestock worrying laws
Legal protections for livestock have recently been ramped up. Ms Dicks said: "The law around livestock worrying has recently been strengthened, with an unlimited maximum fine for livestock worrying and police powers to seize and detain dogs where there are grounds to believe they have attacked or worried livestock."
The RSPCA and Dogs Trust recently launched the Dog Ownership Guide, offering guidance on responsible pet ownership. Ms Dicks said: "Its principles include keeping dogs safe and secure and being a good citizen, helping to protect dogs, other animals and the wider community from harm."
Disturbance to wildlife
Dogs can also cause significant disturbance to wildlife without catching or killing an animal. Ms Dicks warned: "Their acute sense of smell means they may detect wildlife that is hidden from view, including young animals or nesting birds on the ground. Chasing birds, deer or other wildlife can cause injury, stress or disruption, particularly during breeding and nesting seasons."
She urged owners to be mindful of this potential impact, even where an incident is not against the law. Ms Dicks said: "Even where an incident does not amount to a criminal offence, owners should always take reasonable precautions as part of their commitment as a responsible dog owner, to prevent their pets from disturbing, chasing or killing wildlife. Keeping pets under control and being aware of the wildlife around them can help reduce these risks."
