Strict dog lead law is being lifted today after nearly half a year of restrictions and fines

A DOG lead law is being lifted today after nearly half a year of restrictions and hefty fines. Pets can now roam free in the countryside – albeit under a close eye. Pet owners ignoring these seasonal restrictions were at risk of an on-the-spot fine of up to £100 Credit: Vlada Zaharova From March 1 through to July 31, dog owners faced steep penalties if caught with their dog off the lead in Open Access land areas. Any pet owner ignoring these seasonal restrictions were at risk of an on-the-spot fine of up to £100. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Areas affected included moorland, heathland and coastal paths. Under the rules, dogs had to be kept on a short lead of no more than two metres. However, these restrictions ended today following the end of a seasonal law as outlined in the Government-backed Countryside Code. It stated that dog owners must have their pooches on a lead on Open Access land, even if there was no livestock. This was because during these months, ground-nesting birds such as lapwings, skylarks and curlews laid their eggs directly on the ground and typically in areas like empty fields. March through to May is also prime birthing season for livestock, with calves grazing on fresh grass. Most read in The Sun It’s important to note that if your dog is caught worrying, chasing or attacking livestock, you can still be fined up to £1,000. In extreme cases, the fines can be unlimited. Even though the law has been lifted, owners are advised to ensure their dogs are under control at all times. In outlining the Countryside Code. a spokesman for the Government said: “A farmer can shoot a dog that is attacking or chasing livestock. “They may not be liable to compensate the dog’s owner.” Comment now