Dogs on nature reserves

Here at Essex Wildlife Trust, we know how important it is that everyone has the opportunity to get out and enjoy nature, and, for many of us, having a dog encourages us to be more active and spend time outside. Dog owners are natural allies in much of what we do at the Trust, and many of us are proud dog owners. 

However, dogs and nature reserves aren’t always compatible. Many birds nest or feed on the ground, where they’re vulnerable. Chemicals in flea treatments can leach into ponds, lakes and rivers. And dog poo, if it’s not picked up, adds nutrients to the soil which can be damaging for rare plants that require low nutrient levels. Lastly, we have unfortunately had injuries and even deaths of livestock which graze our conservation sites due to out-of-control dogs. 

Because of this, we have restrictions on some of our nature reserves. Where we have identified wildlife or flora at significant risk of disturbance, dogs are not allowed on those sites. Where dogs are allowed on Essex Wildlife Trust nature reserves, they must be kept on leads and under control, to protect wildlife and ensure that all visitors feel safe and welcome to our sites. 

Please check before you travel to find out if dogs are allowed on the reserve, and respect any signage should certain trails need to be closed. Many of our nature reserves do not have bins, so please plan in advance and take any dog waste home with you where you can dispose of it responsibly. For the safety and comfort of all visitors, volunteers and staff, dogs are not allowed in our Nature Discovery Centres, other than assistance dogs. 

Reporting incidents with dogs 

Please call the police for any serious incidents involving dogs. For non-serious incidents or concerns, please contact the reserve or site manager, or email enquiries@essexwt.org.uk.  

Dog owners can help wildlife if they: 

• Keep dogs on short leads on nature reserves and the wider countryside, especially during nesting bird season from April-September  

• Clean up after animals and dispose of dog waste in bins or at home 

• Avoid using nature reserves if walking large groups of dogs 

Thank you for helping to keep our wild places safe and setting a great example for other visitors.