A NEW campaign has been launched to promote responsible behaviour in those using Dartmoor National Park to walk their dogs.

The campaign 'Paws on Dartmoor', has been developed in response to the increasing number of incidents involving uncontrolled dogs and livestock but will also provide advice to dog owners on canine health issues associated with taking their dog onto Dartmoor.

The initiative has been launched to coincide with the lambing and bird breeding season and dog owners are being asked to keep dogs on a short lead during this important time.

They key messages in the campaign are to always control your dog, so that it does not scare or disturb cattle, sheep or ponies; If your dog is chasing sheep or cattle, a farmer is entitled to shoot your dog; when walking your dog on Dartmoor, please keep it on a short lead during the lambing and bird breeding season (March 1 to July 31); Regular worming of your dog keeps it healthy and protects Dartmoor's livestock; please ensure that you clear up after your dog and dispose of poo bags responsibly.

'Paws on Dartmoor' leaflets are available from Dartmoor National Park Authority information centres at Princetown, Postbridge and Haytor, with national park rangers handing out free information cards to dog walkers.

Many visitors and local people exercise their dogs when enjoying Dartmoor. Although a dog may not be actively chasing livestock, its presence can still cause a disturbance. During the lambing season pregnant ewes are particularly vulnerable. financial loss to the farmer.

If anyone witnesses any disturbance of livestock or bird nesting sites by dogs, contact the Livestock Protection Officer on 07873 587561, or the police on 101.