A new report suggests that “traffic light” dog-walking zones in the UK could benefit people, pets, and the environment. The report highlights that the number of dogs in the UK has increased by about 30% since the COVID-19 pandemic, with an estimated 12.5 million dogs now living in the country.
The RENEW project, which collaborated with conservationists and professionals working with dog owners, developed a set of recommendations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of dog walking. Among these is a proposed “traffic light” system that uses green, amber, and red pawprints to designate areas where dogs can roam off-lead, where they should stay on paths, and where walking should be restricted to protect sensitive wildlife or habitats.
David Bavin, lead author of the report, explained that while dogs are an integral part of many households, the goal is to strike a balance between providing accessible spaces for dog owners and minimizing negative impacts on wildlife. “The majority of dog owners don’t intentionally disturb wildlife, and this research aims to find a solution that works for both people and the environment,” he said.
The report stresses that a national standard using clear signage, like the traffic light pawprints, would help dog owners better understand where and when it’s appropriate to walk their pets. “This system provides dog walkers with simple guidelines and sparks important discussions about sharing outdoor spaces,” said Hannah Molloy from the Parliamentary Group for Dog Welfare.
The research also highlights key findings:
- Balancing the needs of people, dogs, and wildlife is critical for conservationists.
- Dog walking can negatively affect wildlife, causing displacement, increased stress, and freshwater pollution from flea treatments.
- Urban and coastal areas, especially in the south of England, face higher dog populations, putting additional pressure on sensitive habitats.
- The report advocates for a “One Health” approach, which aims to protect the health and wellbeing of people, animals, and ecosystems.
The researchers recommend a “no net loss” of dog-walking areas, proposing that restrictions should be evidence-based and, when necessary, alternative sites should be available for unrestricted dog walking.
David Bavin noted that some initiatives are already showing success, such as Dorset Dogs, which works effectively with dog owners, and the Holkham Estate in Norfolk, which uses a zoning system based on community input.
Stephen Jenkinson, a specialist on dogs in outdoor environments, praised the report for providing clarity on how dog walkers can avoid conflicts with wildlife. He emphasized that the report underscores existing best practices that are often overlooked.
To reduce pressure on areas like nature reserves, the researchers argue for expanding public access to land, much of which is currently privately owned and inaccessible.
Dr. Sarah Crowley, a co-author from the University of Exeter, expressed hope that the report would stimulate a nationwide conversation about responsible dog walking, involving both conservationists and the canine community.
In conclusion, the report emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, advocating for a collaborative approach that supports the welfare of all parties involved. The ExCASES report offers an accessible overview of current evidence on dog walking’s impact on biodiversity and provides practical recommendations for sustainable management.
The RENEW project, which produced the report, is a partnership between the University of Exeter and the National Trust, funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).