Dog walking on our nature reserves

We're proud of the fact that many of our nature reserves are beautiful, inviting and attractive to people looking for nice places to walk their four legged friends. Here are some simple ways that you can enjoy walking your dog on a lead on Wildlife Trust nature reserves.

• Take note of the signs and notices

  Dogs must be kept on leads on all Wildlife Trust nature reserves. Some do not permit dogs so please please look out for the appropriate signs around the reserve or check the reserve webpage before your visit.
   

• Always pick up after your dog

  Some of our nature reserves have red dog bins, but if you can’t find one please take the waste home with you to dispose of safely or use a nearby litter bin.
   

• Keep your dog on a lead 

  Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times in order to minimise disturbance to wildlife, as well as to ensure that visitors can see and enjoy the wildlife. When dogs are off lead, it reduces the breeding success of species that we work tirelessly to encourage onto our nature reserves. 
   

• Be aware of grazing animals

  Many of our sites are managed with the help of grazing animals. Keeping your dog on a lead avoids distressing the livestock and keeps you safe.
   

• Consider other visitors

  We manage our nature reserves for the benefit of wildlife and regularly use our sites for educational visits. 

We greatly value our supporters' help in setting an example and communicating the importance of sensitive behaviour on our most precious wild places.