10 June 2020 - Problems out walking
Dear all,
Some years ago I was walking on a footpath near Dewlish when I went through gate heading for the stile across the field. A very large herd of heifers were initially some distance away, but curious, they came running towards me. I backed away from them, waving my walking poles to try and keep them away, but the rear of the herd kept pressing forward. Had I not been close to the stile I would have been knocked over and possibly trampled. I was extremely upset by the incident, and it has long remained in my memory.
So I was very concerned to hear that a lady had recently been attacked by cows when out walking near Sutton Poyntz, even though her dog was on a lead. The cows knocked her over into a stream. Although very shocked she was able to phone for assistance, but her cut head later required hospital treatment. I am sure that I speak for everyone in wishing her well.
But please take care. If entering a field with cows in it, especially if they have calves, keep an eye on them and note your possible escape routes. If at all concerned, take an alternative route. A dog should be on a lead, and current advice is to let the lead go if the cows become agitated.
Stay safe out there.
Best regards
Chris