Walking through fields with cows: how to stay safe - Invaluable walking hints, tips and advice for UK walkers, hikers and ramblers

July 2009

Unfortunately, the hazards or otherwise that can be encountered when walking though fields where there are cows has been in the news again recently (June 2009). One of the incidents reported has tragically resulted in the death of a walker, Liz Crowsley on the Pennine Way.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) figures released recently showed that 18 people have been killed and 481 injured by cows in the past eight years.

Since the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (CRoW) was passed in 2000, the HSE has urged farmers and land-owners to consider the level and type of public access on their land and to take this into account when planning where cattle should be kept and the precautions that should be in place. A spokesman for the NFU commenting on the recent fatality said:

" ..... millions of people walk through fields every year and attacks on members of the public by cattle are extremely rare.

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."

It seems that the biggest risks are: * walking with dogs * walking near cattle who are with young calves. Their natural instinct is to protect their young - and you (especially with a dog in tow) - may be seen as an especially big threat.

So - if you are with a dog, avoid going through a field with cows at all. Although it may be inconvenient, it's probably better to consider finding another route. Be especially vigilant if you find yourself with your dog in a field with both cows and calves.

Even without a dog, try to keep quiet and move away calmly and out of the field as soon as possible. Try not to surprise the cows - remember that their line of vision is to the side and not straight in front.

If cows get too close, turning quietly to face them with arms outstretched is considered to be the best approach.

If you are involved in an incident or are hurt you should contact the HSE, the local Rights-of-Way officer and the police if the incident is serious.

Whilst the countryside certainly isn't a playground, a few simple precautions should mean that we can all continue to enjoy it and farmers and land-owners can get on with their work too.

For more information on walking near cattle (and bulls):

Excuse me, but you're crowding me - A Readers' Tale

Excuse me, but who's your mate? - A Readers' Tale Walking Hiking and Rambling with Dogs - Dogs Off Leads and Walking Advice from The National Farmers' Union BBC - Why do cows attack?

---

To add your comment to this article - click This Link.

We look forward to hearing from you.

---

Home

• The Bunkhouse

° How To

---

› How to dress appropriately for Winter Walking

› How to stay safe when walking and hiking through fields of cows

› How to cope with the effects of heat when walking and hiking

› How to summon help when walking or hiking in the UK

› How to walk downhill with ease

› How to navigate with a map and compass

› How to lose weight by walking and hiking

› How to improve your hill walking technique

› How to walk safely in the dark

› How to get your children out Walking, Hiking and Rambling

› How to choose a Waterproof Walking and Hiking Jacket

› How to choose Walking and Hiking Sandals

› How to choose Walking and Trekking Poles

› How to choose Walking and Hiking Boots

› How to choose a Tent for Camping

› How to choose a Sleeping Bag

› How to choose a Fleece

› How to choose a Day Pack

› How to start Peak Bagging

› How to sound like a walking expert

---

Help

Accounts

Search

Talk To Us

Newsletter/ Example Walks

Advertising & Sponsorship Opportunities

About go4awalk.com

---