Responsible dog walkers will follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Photo: Walter Baxter CC-BY-SA-2.0

A four-legged expert is taking to the airwaves to encourage dog owners to clean up after their animals in the Scottish countryside.

A nationwide radio campaign north of the border features Jess, a wise border collie, who is advising walkers with dogs about their rights and responsibilities.

Scotland enjoys some of the most advanced countryside access rights in the world.

Scottish Natural Heritage said these access rights apply to anyone walking their dogs provided they’re kept under proper control.

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code includes practical advice for dog owners on where they can go and what they can do.

SNH said this advice becomes particularly relevant as spring approaches, when it’s important to control dogs properly to protect young farm animals and ground-nesting birds.

Kirstin Guthrie, SNH communications officer said: “Our radio campaign introduces the character Jess, who helps dispel some myths, as well as highlight how not cleaning up after your dog can kill livestock and encourage other people to think badly of you and your dog.”

Stephen Jenkinson, Kennel Club access adviser added: “Most dog owners understandably tend to be very protective of their dogs, treating them as part of the family and so cleaning up after their pet, wherever they are, is second nature.

“But some owners still get their dogs a bad name by not picking up in places ranging from city parks and paths to informal tracks across fields in the countryside.

“Worse still, some owners leave bagged poo hanging from trees or on the ground. To reduce this problem, we want people to know that if there’s no dedicated dog bin, bagged poo can go in any general litter bin.

“We know some people may think it’s OK to leave their dog’s waste where farm animals graze, but this can spread disease which can kill sheep and make cows lose their unborn calves.

“Simply bagging it and binning it wherever you are prevents this needless suffering and protects your dog’s reputation.”

As well as bagging doggie waste, owners should avoid taking dogs into fields where there are lambs, calves or other young animals. SNH said they should go into a neighbouring field or on to land next to it.

Dog owners should never let their canine friends attack farm animals and should be aware that cattle can act aggressively around dogs. If necessary, let your pet go if farm animals threaten you so you can reach safety.

SNH said walkers should not take their dog into fruit and vegetable fields unless there is a clear path, in which case they should stick to it.

They should also make sure they keep their dog under close control to stop it causing concern for others, especially those who are afraid of the animal.