Many public footpaths in Spelthorne give access to farmland or common land that is grazed by cattle. While a herd of cattle may appear intimidating, they will invariably approach walkers out of curiosity. There have been cases in Britain where cattle have been panicked and caused injury to walkers, especially those accompanied by dogs.
Cow’s behaviour, however, can change when they are calving or accompanied by very young calves and they can become extremely protective. Be particularly wary of cows with young calves, which may feel threatened by the presence of a dog.
Farmers are aware of the public rights of way that cross their land and the need to ensure that livestock will not endanger walkers. It is prudent, however, to treat the cattle that you may encounter with caution. The following advice from the Countryside Council for Wales is very sensible:
Move carefully and quietly, walk around cattle.
Be particularly wary of situations where you may unintentionally be ‘herding’ cattle into a confined space where their only means of escape is back past you.
Never pass between a cow and its calf.
Leave all gates as you found them.
Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you.
Always keep your dog close and under proper control, ideally on a lead.
Don’t hang on to your dog if you feel threatened by cattle – let it go.
