‘Traffic light’ dog-walking zones can benefit pets and environment
Traffic light dog-walking zones in the UK can benefit people, dogs and the environment, new research reveals.
The RENEW project, a collaboration between the University of Exeter and the National Trust, held workshops with conservationists and professionals working with dog walkers to review evidence, and came up with recommendations to help reduce potential impacts of dog walking on the environment.
These include a traffic light system – green, amber or red pawprints to show where dogs can roam off leads, where paws should be kept on paths, and where dog walking should be prevented to protect sensitive wildlife or habitats.
In addition, having a national standard – with clear signs like the traffic light pawprints – would make it easier for everyone to know what’s expected, the researchers say.
The report – by RENEW’s ExCASES research group – also reveals:
- Evidence that dog walking can have some negative impacts – including displacement of wildlife, increased stress levels in wild animals, and pollution of freshwater habitats by spot-on flea and tick treatments.
- Dog numbers are higher in urban and coastal areas, especially in the south of England, creating greater pressure on sensitive habitats in these places.
- The researchers advocate a ‘One Health’ approach – meaning one that aims to balance the health and wellbeing of people, animals and ecosystems.
- They say we should strive for no ‘net loss’ of access for dog walkers. Instead, restrictions should be evidence based, only used where necessary, and – where possible – alternative sites should be created where dogs can be walked without restrictions.
- The team argue that expanding public access to UK land – which is largely privately owned and inaccessible – would ease pressure on current pinch points such as nature reserves.
David Bavin, lead author on the report, said: “The aim of this research is to find a balance between providing welcoming spaces for people and dogs and minimising any negative impacts on wildlife and the environment.”
He added: “Some of this is being done really well already. Projects such as Dorset Dogs are working very effectively with dog owners, while Holkham Estate, in Norfolk, employed a zoning approach following consultation with local communities.”
Hannah Molloy, from the Parliamentary Group for Dog Welfare, added: “This traffic light system is a simple way of helping dog walkers understand the landscape they’re in, and opens up great conversations about how we share space.”
Report co-author Dr Sarah Crowley, from the University of Exeter, said: “We hope to encourage a positive national conversation about dog walking, in collaboration with people and organisations working in both the conservation and canine sectors,” said report co-author Dr Sarah Crowley, from the University of Exeter.
The report – Paws for thought: Towards environmentally friendly dog walking in the UK – is available here.
