Dog walkers advised to use leads when walking near cliffs

Tue, 26 Apr 2011

As the warmer weather entices dog walkers to get out and explore the Cornish coastline, both the Coastguard and Dogs Trust are warning dog owners to keep their pets safe while on cliff walks by ensuring that they stay on a lead.

Last year in the UK there were 227 coastal accidents involving dogs that needed emergency assistance from Coastguards Rescue Teams .

Coastguard Search and Rescue Manager, Roly McKie, said: "The common incidents we see are where dogs have slipped or bounded over a cliff edge because they haven't anticipated the drop ahead. Owners will then risk their lives to rescue their dogs and our Coastguard Rescue Teams often get called out to help."

Dogs Trust Chief Veterinary Director, Chris Laurence, added: "We would advise all dog owners to keep dogs on a lead when on cliff paths as a protective measure. It can be tempting to let your dog walk off lead especially if that's what they are used to and they are well trained, but accidents like this on coastal walks are not uncommon, keeping your dog on a lead can protect both you and your pet ."

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