NI Water issues warning to dog owners as spring risks rise across countryside sites

Dog owners visiting Northern Ireland’s most scenic outdoor locations are being urged to keep their pets firmly on leads, as NI Water warns that failing to do so could put livestock, wildlife, and livelihoods at serious risk - and may result in fines of up to £1,000.

With warmer weather drawing increasing numbers of visitors to beauty spots across the region, the public body has issued a clear message: keep your dog on the lead, whatever their breed.

Spring brings heightened risk for wildlife and livestock

Spring marks a particularly sensitive period in the countryside, with ground-nesting birds, sheep and lambs, and cattle with young calves all especially vulnerable to disturbance.

Even well-trained dogs can act unpredictably in open environments, NI Water has warned, with natural instincts often taking over when animals encounter livestock or wildlife.

These incidents can cause severe stress to animals, disrupt breeding cycles, and in some cases lead to injury or loss - with direct consequences for local farmers who rely on the land for their livelihoods.

Fines of up to £1,000 for owners who fail to control dogs

NI Water has also highlighted the legal responsibilities placed on dog owners, warning that failing to keep a dog under control in certain circumstances can lead to enforcement action.

Where cases are taken before the courts, fines of up to £1,000 may be imposed, reinforcing the seriousness of the issue.

The organisation says the guidance is not only about protecting animals and habitats, but also about ensuring everyone can safely enjoy shared outdoor spaces.

Popular beauty spots under pressure as visitor numbers rise

Many of the areas under NI Water’s care attract high visitor numbers during spring and summer months, including Silent Valley in the Mourne Mountains and the Garron Plateau in County Antrim.

These locations are not only valued for their natural beauty, but also serve as vital drinking water catchments and important ecological habitats.

They also support local farming activity, placing added importance on responsible behaviour from visitors.

Call for responsible behaviour from all visitors

NI Water catchment officer Rebecca Allen said:

“NI Water is pleased to welcome visitors to its publicly-accessible sites. Many of the areas under NI Water’s care - including Silent Valley in the Mourne Mountains and the Garron Plateau in County Antrim - are home to ground-nesting birds, important habitats, and vital drinking water catchments.

“These landscapes also support local farmers, and NI Water is therefore asking all visitors to enjoy these special places responsibly. That means keep your dog on the lead whatever their breed.

“We know that dogs are much-loved companions and, in many cases, very well trained. However, in open countryside their natural instincts can take over, and even the most obedient dog will be tempted to chase livestock or explore wildlife-sensitive areas if off the lead. These incidents are deeply distressing for livestock, damaging for flocks, and devastating for farmers whose livelihoods depend on the land.

“We are therefore urging people to keep dogs under close control, stick to paths where possible, clean up after their pets, and give wildlife and livestock plenty of space during the spring and summer months. Keeping dogs under control helps everyone to use and enjoy these shared, special places.”

Clear message ahead of peak season

As visitor numbers continue to climb, NI Water has thanked those who already act responsibly and follow guidance when out in the countryside.

The organisation says simple actions - keeping dogs on leads, staying on designated paths, and respecting wildlife - will play a key role in protecting Northern Ireland’s landscapes during one of the most sensitive times of year.

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At a glance

• NI Water urges dog owners to keep pets on leads at countryside sites

• Warning comes as visitor numbers rise with warmer weather

• Spring is a sensitive time for ground-nesting birds and young livestock

• Dogs off leads can cause distress, injury, or loss to animals

• Owners could face fines of up to £1,000 if dogs are not controlled

• Key locations include Silent Valley and the Garron Plateau

• Public advised to stick to paths, clean up after pets, and respect wildlife