Chelmer and Blackwater Ramblers

Dog Ramble Policy

The Rambers Association have issued a 'Dog Walking code' which gives general advice for dog walkers in the countryside. This can be found on the Ramblers website. https://www.ramblers.org.uk/advice/safety/dog-walkers.aspx In addition to these general guidelines; Owners attending a ramble with a dog should be;

• In control of their dog at all times
• Prepared to keep dog on a lead (at the discretion of the walk leader) The owner should bring;
• Water and receptacle for the dog to drink from
• Lead
• Poo bags
• Food / Towel also recommended Dogs attending a ramble should be;
• Friendly with other dogs and people
• Adult, fully grown
• Fit enough to walk the distance specified at a reasonable pace
• Female dogs in season should not be walked with other dogs It is a good idea to check the dog's paws for stones/grass seed or other foreign objects, before and after a walk. Dog numbers may be limited and must be booked with the walk leader beforehand Weather conditions Please note that if weather conditions are not suitable you may be asked to leave your dog at home (especially hot weather). Temperature charts can be found online, and there is an example in the appendix. Please also bear in mind the length of the walk. Walking near livestock/horses There are some pages giving advice on the Ramblers website https://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking-hub/how-walk-through-field-animals Key points when walking near livestock are as follows;
• you should keep your dog close to you on a short lead
• do not walk between mothers and their young
• if you are threatened (by cattle), the advice is to let go of the lead and send the dog away.
• Owners remain fully responsible for their dogs at all times, including under the strengthened livestock**‑**protection laws effective from March 2026.

Enjoy your walk!

Appendix