With the weather being a little warmer over the last few weeks, and the summer holidays fast approaching, more people will be out and about enjoying leisurely walks.

 Public rights of way, such as footpaths and bridleways offer access to be able to enjoy the countryside. However, cows are often grazing in fields nearby and can be a danger to unsuspecting walkers.

Cow attacks on public rights of way present a significant safety concern that requires careful management by landowners and sensible behaviour by members of the public exercising public rights of way.

Landowners must balance their duty of care with practical farming needs while the public should exercise caution and respect when navigating rural areas. By working together we can reduce the incidence of cow attacks and foster a safer countryside environment.

Here are some practical tips on what members of the public can do to keep safe:

• Stay vigilant – be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking through fields with livestock
• Keep dogs under control – dogs can provoke defensive behaviour in cows. Keep dogs on a lead and under close control
• Stick to paths – follow designated paths and avoid cutting through fields, particularly during calving season
• Do not go near calves -  parents will protect and react accordingly.

Farmer fined after cow attack

The potential danger is highlighted in a case where a woman and her friend had to climb up a tree to escape an attack by more than a dozen cows on a public right of way in North Yorkshire.

Janicke Tvedt and David Hood had set out on a popular circular walk from Masham with pet Labrador Goose, who was on his lead. Part of their walk took them across the fields and public rights of way near Shaws Farm.

After entering a field off Foxholme Lane, the pair noticed several cattle in a field the path cut across, including cows with calves. They decided to give them a wide berth, passing through a narrow opening in a hedge. However, as they did, they spotted a lone cow with two calves, and within seconds their dog was attacked.

Although they all managed to get away, they were soon cornered by other cows and 57-year-old Ms Tvedt was knocked to the ground and trampled. She was helped up by her friend, but they found themselves surrounded by about 15 cows and had to climb a tree to escape a further attack.

The farmer, Martin Falshaw of Falshaw Partners, Shaws Farm, Swinton, Ripon, North Yorkshire pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3 (2) of the Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974. He was fined £770.50 and ordered to pay £4,539 in costs.

Cows are known to be protective of their calves and can be unpredictable. They can pose a risk to walkers, especially to those with dogs.

Key considerations for farmers and landowners include:

• Where possible avoid putting cattle, especially cows with calves, in fields with public access
• Do all you can to keep animals and people separated, including erecting fencing (permanent or temporary) e.g. electric fencing
• Assess the temperament of any cattle before putting them into a field with public access
• Any animal that has shown any sign of aggression must not be kept in a field with public access.
• Clearly sign post all public access routes across the farm. Display signage at all entrances to the field stating what is in the field (cows with calves / bulls).

Katrina Elsey , senior associate in the Personal Injury team, said: “Farmers and landowners have a responsibility to ensure that their fields are safe for the public. This includes regular risk assessment of their livestock especially during calving season, when cows can be particularly protective and aggressive. Clear signage and physical barriers such as fencing can help delineate safe paths and warn the public of potential dangers. Let’s ensure our countryside adventures remain enjoyable and safe for everyone”.

If you are injured by a cow or any other animal, contact our personal injury specialists today for a no obligation chat about your options. Call 01302 320621 or email help@switalskis.com.