Benefits of on-lead dog walking

With all the wet weather we’ve been having recently, many dog walkers have been taking to Norton Hill and Westhill recreation grounds to exercise their dogs (understandably, as these seem to be the only mud-free fields in Somerset!). But did you know that both grounds have a dogs on-leads policy?

Not only are there obvious social benefits for keeping dogs on leads (it’s also the law to ensure your dog is not dangerously out of control!), but there are also many lesser-known health and wellbeing benefits for the dog:

• On-lead walking encourages sniffing which stimulates a dogs mind. Dogs communicate through scent so smelling where another dog has been is a real feast for the senses! To enhance this, try stopping periodically and throwing a few treats on the ground, encouraging your dog to ‘find it’. It’ll put their nose to work along with giving them a tasty reward!

• It also gives a great opportunity to reinforce any training you’d like to progress. Loose lead walking, sit, wait, down (to name just a few) are all practicable on an on-lead walk. By giving your dog something to do while on lead, you’re working their mind as well as their legs.

• For walks in quieter areas, consider the use of a long-line. They allow the dog more freedom and opportunity to train at a distance, but with the security of still being attached to you.

Should you wish to exercise your dog off-lead, Westfield Parish Council would like to encourage the use of more appropriate areas. Waterside Valley is a great place for off-lead walking, with various paths around the valley accessed via The Dring, Linden Close, Cherry Tree Close and First Avenue.

Sarah Appleton - Midsomer Mutts (Dog Services)