The £1,000 fine dog owners face for common mistake while on a walk this spring – here’s how not to get caught out

SPRING is here and it's a glorious time to take your pooch for a walk during sunrise or sunset and enjoy the birdsong.

But a wildlife expert has revealed the £1,000 fine dog walkers could be faced with from March onwards if they are not careful when out and about.

Nesting season is between March 1st to July 31st each year, and it's when birds up and down the UK start to attract mates, build nests and lay their first eggs.

However, letting your dog off the lead next to these nesting sites can have a serious impact.

According to Richard Green, wildlife expert and head of production at Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, “it’s important to keep your dog on a lead to protect vulnerable wildlife, especially ground-nesting birds”.

He added: It’s a legal requirement to keep dogs on leads no longer than two metres on open access land.”;

Failing to keep your dog under control in designated areas during this period can also lead to fixed penalty notices of £100, with these fines reaching up to £1,000 if taken to court.

Depending on where you live, each local council's rules and guidelines may differ slightly so it's important to check before heading out.

But they can all enforce regulations such as Public Spaces Protection Orders for not following the rules.

This is because, “dog owners often don’t realise the wider impacts of their pets”, Richard said.

“Just the presence of a dog off lead can scare wildlife and livestock.

“Even a quick chase or scare can make them abandon their nests, leaving eggs or chicks to die.”

Even if you're dog is well-behaved, it can accidentally disturb wildlife whilst it enjoys the outdoors.

Richard recommends using a short lead when walking your dog, and sticking to paths.

If your dog is used to bounding around off a lead, Richard said “shorter walks with lots of sniffing opportunities can be just as stimulating for dogs as running off-lead”.

Also, as the weather gets that bit warmer, reconsider letting your dog enjoy a paddle in a pond, river or other body of water.

Not only can it unsettle the wildlife living there, but if your dog recently had chemical-based flea treatment, it can contaminate the water.

Why is it important to protect birds during nesting season?

This is especially important during the spring, because many birds travel long distances to nest in the UK.

Ultimately, birds see dogs as predators and just one encounter can stop them from breeding in that location, causing their numbers to drop.

Richard explained further to Country Living: “Many ground-nesting birds, like nightjars, willow warblers, and meadow pipits, rely on undisturbed habitats during the breeding season.

“Familiar garden birds, such as dunnocks and blackbirds, can also nest close to the ground, making them vulnerable to unintentional damage from dogs off leads.”

It's not just the countryside, forests, woodlands or parks you need to be careful – it's also beaches.

Species like oystercatchers and little terns often camouflage their eggs amongst the pebbles, which is why they can easily be disrupted by a dog off lead.

More summer risks to dogs

EXPERTS are warning pet owners to be vigilant when it comes to taking their dogs out this summer - especially when it comes to taking them to the beach.

Dr Rebecca MacMillan says it is important that dog parents are well prepped to ensure a safe trip away with their dog.

From consumption of salt water, to open holes, the Gloucestershire-based vet says there are hidden hazards to look out for.

Angela Laws, who is head of community at British pet-sitting platform TrustHousesitters, also urges pet owners to “prioritise safety”; and to “be aware of potential hazards.”;

Preventing injuries

Large holes can be hidden amongst the sand, which can cause injury if your dog trips or falls into it.

Dr Rebecca is warning pet owners, as if you are playing fetch with them, your dog might not be “expecting a hole”; as they are running, which can cause them to fall and injure themselves.

Talking to theFemail,Dr Rebecca also wanted to be mindful of other beach-goingpetsif you and your dog choose to dig a hole and to fill it back up before heading off.

Food for thought

Although you would never dream of drinking the water from the sea, your pets may view it as a large bowl of water for them.

However, seawater consumption is extremely dangerous for your dogs according to Dr Rebecca.

Drinking saltwater can disrupt the “balance of electrolyte in the body and cause dehydration,”; according to Rebecca.

This is also the case for sand as too much sand can cause a painful obstruction, “which may require surgery.”;

Check the temperature

Just like humans, pets can get heat stroke too.

It is most likely to occur when the body’s temperature rises above 36C and hits 40C.

Dr Rebbeca suggests caution when the weather outside hits 25C, and especially if it's over 27C.

She also warned pet owners to do their research on the type of breed of their dog, as some will be much more “prone to heatstroke.”;

Dr Rebecca says these dogs include flat-faced dogs like pugs and bulldogs, and large breeds with thick coats.

She urges dog parents to make sure their pet is well hydrated, try to keep them in the shade and remember to be aware of their paws burning on the ground.

Digging dangers

Dr Rebecca there could be anything from discarded BBQ’s with hot coals, to broken glass or sharp objects.

She said: “If your pooch is prone to digging, make sure you’re nearby in case of any unexpected finds.”;