Walkers Warned Of Cow Hazard

Farmers' unions have warned walkers, particularly those with dogs, to beware of cattle with calves after three people were killed in as many months by stampeding cattle.


Cattle with calves become extremely protective of their offspring and see dogs as a threat. Not only have three walkers died in incidents this summer, but a number including former Home Secretary David Blunkett, have also been injured - Blunkett suffered three broken ribs and bruising, however, he did the right thing by letting his dog off the lead.

General advice from farmers is that cattle see the dog as a threat, but aren't overly concerned by people. If you are walking a dog and cows panic, you should let the dog off the lead allowing it to run to safety and removing the perceived threat. They stress that cows are not aggressive animals and you shouldn't be afraid of them.

The National Farmers' Union says:

"Our advice to walkers is if you have a dog with you, keep it under close control, but do not hang on to it should a cow or bull start acting aggressively. If you feel threatened, just carry on as normal, do not run, move to the edge of the field and if possible find another way round the field, returning to the original path as soon as is possible. And remember to close the gate."

Lots of good information plus streaming iPlayer advice from a farmer at news.bbc.co.uk