Enjoying your dog in the Middlesex Fells
Friends of the Fells and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) invite you to join the “Be Kind” campaign to make the Fells a safe and welcoming space for everyone. By following these simple guidelines when visiting with your pups, we can make the Fells safe and welcoming for dogs, and for all people, too.
But…why?
Many visitors are curious to know more about why DCR recommends these steps. So, we’ve compiled some information to help answer the “why” question:
Why should I leash my pup?
Not everyone is a dog lover, and some visitors you encounter may even be very fearful of dogs due to traumatic experiences with dogs in the past. Keeping your dog on a leash shows respect and consideration for everyone’s space, safety, and mental well-being.
Not all dogs are dog-friendly! Many negative and stressful interactions occur when an off-leash dog approaches a leashed, reactive dog. Dog-hesitant canines should have the same opportunity to enjoy the Fells as other dogs.
Dogs love exploring off-trail! However, off-leash dogs often chase, scare, and can even injure or kill wildlife. Disturbance by off-leash dogs in wildlife habitats can also distract animals from essential behaviors, like foraging and mating. Sensitive wildlife, including nesting birds, salamanders, and small mammals cannot protect themselves or recover after encountering a large mammal like a dog.
Many rodents have been affected by rodenticide and have high levels of poison in their system. Dogs that consume poisoned rats could experience illness and even death. Having your dog on a leash ensures that your dog doesn’t eat anything dangerous.
But I love seeing my dog run free!
So do we! The Fells provides this opportunity at the Sheepfold Dog Park, an off-leash area where dogs can run free and enjoy making new friends (owners can too!).
Why should I pick up after my dog?
- Dog waste is high in nutrients from a dog’s diet. This can alter the soil and water chemistry, impacting native plant communities. Dog waste can present safety issues when another dog encounters it. Diseases can spread to both pets and wildlife through dog waste, and can harm our water supply.
Why should I ask before petting a dog?
- Even if they look friendly, not all dogs like to be approached by strangers.
- Some dogs you see in the Fells might be “at work,” such as Service Dogs, and these pets should not be distracted while they are working.
- Owners know their dogs best, and if you ask before petting, they will be able to tell you the best way to have a positive interaction and avoid upsetting their dog.
Join us for a dog hike!
Check out our calendar here for our monthly “Middlesex Mutts” hiking program.
NOTE: DCR manages the Middlesex Fells and is responsible for defining the rules and guidelines for its enjoyment and use by the public. DCR guidelines on bringing dogs into the Fells can be found on their website here.