The days are getting longer and spring has almost sprung so why not dust off the families’ walking shoes during February half-term and head to the Rhug Estate to go on a Farm Walk. You can even bring the dog – but don’t forget its lead!
The Rhug has two designated farm walks around the Estate which give visitors an insight into the Estate’s farm life. There is a short walk which takes approximately 30 minutes and a longer walk which takes approximately an hour. Rhug is a working farm so the animals you see varies each time you visit but during half term visitors should be able to see the sheep flock before they head in for lambing and the herd of Bison.
Graham Webster, General Manager of the Rhug Farm Shop and Bistro said, “Being the owner of two dogs myself I certainly wouldn’t want dogs to miss out on a visit to Rhug. They are very welcome, but they must be on a lead at all times. They are allowed into the Bison Grill Bistro as there are dog friendly tables and there are drinking stations around the estate and outside the shop. We have also started selling our own organic dog food ‘Truffles’. The idea originated from creating a healthy organic product for Lord Newborough’s Labrador, uncoincidentally called Truffles, to enjoy.”
The meat for ‘Truffles’ dog food comes from the Rhug farm. Other ingredients include: organic chicken, organic fruit and vegetables, salmon oil and camomile tea. The dog food is available in 500g packs for £2.50 from the Farm Shop.
Rhug Farm Manager, Gareth Jones, offers some advice to those walking around farm animals with their dogs. Gareth says, “When out walking in the countryside it is important to remember that it is a working environment where animals graze. Walkers should be mindful of their surroundings to fully enjoy the experience.”
Gareth continued, “Walkers should 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.”
Dos and don’ts for walking amongst livestock from the Ramblers Association:
Do
- Try to avoid getting between cows and their calves.
- Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you.
- Move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd.
- Keep your dog close and under effective control on a lead around cows and sheep.
Don’t
- Don’t hang onto your dog. If you are threatened by cattle – let it go as to allow the dog to run to safety.
- Don’t put yourself at risk. Find another way round the cattle and re-join the footpath as soon as possible.
- Don’t panic or run. Most cattle will stop before they reach you. If they follow just walk on quietly.
The Rhug’s Farm Walks are free for all to enjoy, just pick up a map from the Farm Shop or the Bistro before you start off. During February half term the Shop and Bistro are open between 8am and 5pm daily.
Organic Beef