Best practice in the natural environment
Keep dogs on a leash
Bear in mind that your dog can be an intrusive species in these spaces. If you have keep its lead on, it will not disturb the herds or the wildlife and will not endanger species that are endangered. Spring is a particularly delicate time because many species are breeding.
Problems it can cause
All dogs have instinctive behaviours that can be triggered by certain stimuli, such as a running sheep or a flying partridge, and they can become potential predators of both wild and domestic animals. The excrements of our dogs can be a source of diseases that affect native wildlife and livestock. Additionally, the presence of antiparasitic and other substances in the excrement can significantly contaminate the environment. We must also bear in mind that we are not the only visitors to natural spaces and that the presence of unleashed dogs can disturb others.
Best practices
Enjoy natural spaces with your dog or other domestic animals responsibly:
- Keep your accompanying domestic animals on a leash; they can cause significant disturbance to wildlife and livestock.
- Pick up your dog’s waste. It can be a source of disease and environmental contamination.
- Avoid passing through spaces with domestic livestock, and if you do, always keep your dog on a leash and avoid getting too close.
- Refrain from bringing your dog to areas with threatened wildlife.
- Keep in mind that in some natural spaces the presence of dogs is not allowed.
Associated resources
Video #EquilibriNatural: animals de companyia als espais naturals – DACC
Campaign “Porta els gossos lligats” – Agents Rurals
Comic about unleashed dogs in nature – FEEC
Video about dogs in nature – ADEFFA