There is a well known saying, 'no pain, no gain' and that will be ringing true in the minds of Milk Link’s 1,600 producers, who are on the brink of reaping just reward for 12 years of loyalty and investment.New signs issued to farmers to warn walkers of cattle dangers
THE NFU has issued new signs for farmers to remind walkers of the potential dangers of stampeding cattle.
The new signs come after a series of high profile incidents where walkers have been killed or injured by cattle after being scared by dogs.
The signs, which have been produced by the NFU for its farmer members, give advice to walkers to let go of their dogs if they are being chased or feel threatened by cattle.
NFU Deputy President Meurig Raymond said: “Farmers take care before placing livestock into fields, particularly those with a footpath, but equally the public should also be aware and must know what to do if cattle approach them.
“That is why we support the advice of the Ramblers for walkers with dogs. However we must not forget that the countryside is where farmers earn their living and that is where cattle and sheep will be grazed.”
The move was backed by walkers’ charity, the Ramblers which urged walkers to continue to enjoy the British countryside.
The Ramblers’ chief executive, Tom Franklin said: “As with any working environment there are certain risks and it is untenable to remove all those risks from our surroundings.
“Incidents of people being attacked by cattle are few and far between, thankfully, and it would be counter to the interest of people who walk and farmers alike to see cattle closed off behind fences in fields. We urge people who walk not to let the very low risk of cattle attacks put them off enjoying the countryside when it is at its loveliest.”
Advice to walkers
Do
- Try not to get between cows and their calves
- Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you
- Move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd
- Keep your dog close and under effective control on a lead
Don’t
- Don’t hang onto your dog. If you are threatened by cattle - let it go as the cattle will chase the dog.
- Don’t put yourself at risk. Find another way round the cattle and rejoin the footpath as soon as possible
- Don’t panic or run! Most cattle will stop before they reach you. If they follow just walk on quietly.
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