Police in the north of the island have asked the public to think of the countryside when out walking.

The advice is particularly relevant for people exercising their dogs in areas where cattle may be grazing with their young.

A post on the police’s Facebook page said: ’Be vigilant, especially on entering a field or where you cannot see the whole field, and try to stay away from animals and to be aware of their movements. In the spring it’s especially important to be sympathetic to farm animals rearing their young and give them space.

’When walking with dogs in fields with cattle, the advice is to avoid getting between cows and their calves; to keep your dog under close and effective control on a lead around cows and sheep, but not to hang onto your dog if you are threatened by cattle - let it go and allow the dog to run to safety.

’This offers the best chance of a safe outcome to both you and your dog. If you feel threatened by animals protecting their territory or young, do not run. Move to the edge of the field and, if possible, find another way round.’

The police also offered some do’s and don’ts for walkers:

Do

â?¢ Try to avoid getting between cows and their calves.

â?¢ Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you.

â?¢ Move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd.

â?¢ Keep your dog close and under effective control on a lead around cows and sheep

Don’t

â?¢ Don’t hang onto your dog. If you are threatened by cattle - let it go as to allow the dog to run to safety.

â?¢ Don’t put yourself at risk. Find another way round the cattle and rejoin the footpath as soon as possible.

â?¢ Don’t panic or run. Most cattle will stop before they reach you. If they follow just walk on quietly.

The police added: ’Farmers also have a responsibility for the safety of the animals in their fields, and for those walking across their land. Farmers who keep livestock in fields crossed by public rights of way may face civil and/or criminal proceedings if members of the public are injured by their livestock.

’If you are aware that particular animals are likely to be upset by people walking in their field, or are likely to behave aggressively towards people, then you should consider whether they should be in a place with public access, or one where walkers are known to stray.

’Some livestock species and breeds of bull are prohibited from being in a field containing a right of way.’