Dog owners urged to leash pets as breeding season begins in Gelderland
From March 15, animals like birds and roe deer are raising their young in Gelderland’s outdoors. Unleashed dogs can scare away parents, leaving offspring vulnerable. Keeping dogs on a leash helps protect wildlife and ensures nature remains vibrant for everyone to enjoy.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Campaign Start | March 15, 2024 |
| Target Group | Dog owners visiting outdoor areas in Oost Gelre and Achterhoek |
| Main Risk | Disturbance of young animals (birds, roe deer, hares) by unleashed dogs |
| Health Hazard | Dog feces can transmit Neospora, harming livestock |
| Supporting Organizations | Achterhoek Toerisme, LTO Noord, Natuurmonumenten, Staatsbosbeheer, municipalities of Achterhoek |
| Website for Info | Achterhoek Losloopgebieden |
The municipality of Oost Gelre, along with regional partners, manages recreational and natural areas to balance wildlife protection with public access. This campaign reflects their role in enforcing local regulations and promoting responsible behavior among visitors to safeguard biodiversity.
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Read the full translated article below
Protect the young ones in spring
Starting from March 15, the breeding season begins. In early spring, many animals search for a partner, build nests, and have offspring. During this period, birds and mammals are extra vulnerable to disturbance. With the campaign 'Protect the young ones,' we ask visitors to give animals the rest they so desperately need during this time. Therefore, we make an urgent appeal: always keep your dog on a leash in the outdoor area. This prevents young animals, such as birds, calf roe deer, and hares, from being disturbed or endangered.
Why leashing is important
Young animals see dogs as a threat. Even if your dog is small, playful, or friendly. When a dog comes too close, adult animals flee, and the young are left alone. Without parents, they often do not survive. It is also important for farmers that dogs are leashed. Dog feces can contain the parasite Neospora, which can seriously sicken calves and cows.
Together for a lively landscape
With this campaign, we want to protect nature. But also ensure that everyone can continue to enjoy the outdoor area. Arjen Schutten, alderman for leisure economy, says: "Spring makes our landscape beautiful and lively. Precisely then, young animals need rest and our care. By leashing your dog, you help keep the nature in Oost Gelre healthy. This way, we can continue to enjoy it together."
What you can do
You help the young animals by leashing your dog and staying on the paths. Additionally, do not leave dog feces behind in or near pastures. This way, we give the young ones in our municipality a good start. Do you want to know where your dog is allowed to run loose? Then visit the website of Achterhoek.
Protect the young ones
The campaign 'Protect the young ones' is supported by Achterhoek Toerisme, LTO Noord, Gelders Particulier Grondbezit, Natuurmonumenten, Staatsbosbeheer, and the municipalities of Achterhoek. They work together under the name 'Natuurlijk te Gast in de Achterhoek,' an initiative to ensure that nature and recreation go well together.