For both men and animals, the forest is a wonderful playground. But there are also rules to respect to preserve this natural environment, such as the ban on lighting a fire all year round or smoking during periods of fire risk. Less known to the general public, a ministerial decree dating from 1955 regulates the wanderings of dogs in the woods and forests.
It will take effect this Monday and for a period of two and a half months. Until June 30, all owners must keep their animal on a leash outside forest paths. On these marked paths, dogs will have a little more freedom, provided they are “less than 100 meters and under the direct control of their master”, underlines the National Forestry Office (ONF).
Do not crush eggs on the ground
Why such stricter regulations when the sunny days make you want to go frolicking in nature with your faithful companion? This is, according to the decree, “to prevent the destruction of birds and all species of game and to encourage their repopulation”. The defined period corresponds in fact to the giving birth of mammals and the nesting of birds. And as cute as they are, dogs, with their very keen senses, can easily spot newborns and birds nesting on the ground and thus disturb these animal populations.
Among them, species classified on the red list of threatened species in France, such as the European nightjar. “There is a risk that the eggs will be crushed by the dog or its owner,” underlines Sylvie Arcoutel, communications and crisis manager for the ONF in the Great West.
Until this summer, we will be content with forest paths when walking with our doggie. And in the event of non-compliance, ONF agents will not hesitate to take action against offenders, who risk a fine of 750 euros. “They have more of an awareness and educational role, but they are also sworn to verbalize,” warns Sylvie Arcoutel, therefore calling on all dog owners to show “responsibility”.