When Cattle Attack

The Ramblers have come out with some timely advice about dealing with cows and calves, though they stress that the chances of being attacked are actually extremely low, even though cows with their offspring can be extremely protective.


Tom Franklin, CEO of the Ramblers, emphasises the point: “We urge everyone out walking to be aware of the ‘dos and don’ts’ of walking in fields with cows and their calves at this time of year, but not to let the very low risk of cattle attacks put them off enjoying the countryside when it is (arguably) at its loveliest.”

The Do's according to The Ramblers

Try not to get between cows and their calves.

Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you.

Move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around them.

Keep your dog close and under proper control.

And the Don'ts...

Don't hang onto your dog. If you are threatened by animals - let it go as the cow will chase after it rather than you.

Don't put yourself at risk. Find another way round the cows and rejoin the footpath as soon as possible

Don't panic! Most cows will stop before they reach you. If they follow just walk on quietly.

Don't forget to report any problems to the highway authority.

Dog Danger

Statistically most incidents between cattle and walkers happen because of the presence of a dog, when cattle with calves are alarmed by the dog's presence. As The Ramblers say above, if you find cows chasing you and your dog, it's best to let the dog off the lead, he'll run faster than you can and the cattle will follow him rather than you.

There's a downloadable pdf booklet called 'You and Your Dog In The Countryside' at www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk plus extensive dog-specific outdoors advice at www.pawsonthemoors.org

More information at www.ramblers.org.uk