R2OK!

RockitRon · Joined: 07 Dec 2006 Posts: 7646

There was a report this week of yet another person trampled to death by cows while walking her dog through a field. She wasn't on a designated footpath - the two other publicised incidents this year were.

The police and HSE will not take action against farmers who put domesticated animals in their fields (and I believe a private prosecution last year failed). It's their land and, although there may be a public right of way over it, it's up to walkers to be aware and take care, especially when accompanied by dogs, which cattle consider to be a threat, especially to their young.

On two of our local walks (one of which is a riverside one, very popular with young families) cows are regularly put out to graze. On Wednesday evening we passed through one field, greeting this one

who quickly called up the gang

to "see us off the premises".
Quite intimidating. If I was alone I certainly wouldn't go that way.
_________________
Ron

Briant · Posted: Fri Jul 24, 2009 2:37 pm Post subject: Cowboy boots.....

I remember Red Sovine who was a Country Music singer. Wally Whyton once asked for joke Country songs and singers (as if we need them!)
I suggested Red Bovine singing 'Cattle Call.' Others sent in included 'A bottle of wine and Patsy Cline' and 'An alcohol-free with Jerry Lee.'

Rachel · Guest

They look like Bullocks to me, Ron. After what they've been through it's not surprising they get a bit tetchy. I expect they're quite miffed! Smile

They often walk towards people in fields cos they think that you're bringing them yummy food - they get fed cattle feed as well as the grass they eat. They're just trying to get first in the queue for the nosh. They can get it bit rowdy with each other at feeding time.

Minx · Posted: Fri Jul 24, 2009 3:31 pm Post subject:

I like number 53 - looks like one of Amy Winehouse's minders.
_________________
Minx

To err is human, to forgive - canine.

RockitRon · Joined: 07 Dec 2006 Posts: 7646

Gnasty Gnome · Joined: 28 Jul 2007 Posts: 313 Location: West Wales

I come face-to-face with livestock on a daily basis (deliver cattle feed for a living) so here's a few tips.

1) The old adage about "red rag to a bull" has a grain of truth. Cattle do not like bright clothing, that's why I never wear my hi-viz on a farm. In itself it should not provoke an attack but it does make them nervous. Keep to dark-coloured clothing; just watch what the farmers wear.

2) Blindingly obvious but you'd be surprised how dumb some townies are.... keep your dog on a SHORT lead when crossing a field, and try to keep to the edge of the field and away from the livestock, even if it means a longer walk. If your dog is of a barking persuasion, keep it off farms.... simple as that. And NEVER let it off the lead near sheep; if your dog worries sheep, the farmer is perfectly entitled to shoot it and it would serve you right.

3) Carry a walking stick. If you are approached by cattle, spread your arms wide and wave them, with stick in one hand. Shout but don't scream; high-pitched noises set them off.

4) If in doubt, don't go into the field. I don't care how much "right to roam" you think you've got, there are plenty of other paths available. Remeber; they live there, you're visiting.

5) Again it's obvious but.... SHUT THE GATE!

6) It doesn't matter how cute they look; don't approach livestock unless you're seperated from them by a stout fence. They might be domesticated but that doesn't mean they're tame!

Sorry if these seem a bit tetchy, but do bear in mind that I live in a tourist area, and some of the stupid things I see holidaymakers doing on farms would make my hair curl; if I had any! Wink

Lord Evan Elpuss · Joined: 10 Dec 2006 Posts: 3417 Location: Cloud Cuckoo Land

Gnasty Gnome · Joined: 28 Jul 2007 Posts: 313 Location: West Wales