Dog owners reminded to be responsible during Easter holidays
Both bodies are urging people to follow important advice to keep pets on leads.
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 Easter holidays.
Both bodies are urging people to follow important advice to keep pets on leads whilst walking through the countryside following reported incidents last year at land around Moel Famau.
Livestock worrying, where dogs disturb and chase sheep, is illegal. Any dogs caught worrying livestock can be destroyed and the owners can be prosecuted.
A new law has come into effect in England and Wales which will see farm animals get stronger protection from dog attacks.
The police will now have powers to seize and detain a dog where they have reasonable grounds to believe it has attacked or worried livestock and that there is a risk it could do so again.
The maximum fine for livestock worrying has also increased from £1000 to an unlimited fine.
Visitors should make themselves aware of what restrictions and guidelines that are in place at the area they visit to keep themselves and others safe. People should also check ahead to see if countryside facilities are open and also park responsibly in designated areas.
Emlyn Jones, Denbighshire County Council's Head of Planning, Public Protection and Countryside Services, said:
“We do know 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, there is a minority who do not follow the rules, and we are urging them to remember that they are ultimately responsible for their dog while walking through the countryside.
“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 work to prevent.
“If you are bringing your dog, 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.”
For more information, visit https://www.clwydianrangeanddeevalleyaonb.org.uk/ and follow the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB on Facebook and X.