Dog owners urged to protect wildlife and puppies by keeping pets apart

Appeal to Dog Owners as Wildlife Faces Critical Season on Channel Island Beaches

Dog owners are being urged to play their part in protecting vulnerable wildlife along Channel Island beaches as the seasonal summer restrictions on dogs come to an end.

From Wednesday, beaches in Guernsey and Jersey reopened to dogs following the lifting of restrictions, but local conservation groups are warning that the timing coincides with a particularly sensitive period for wildlife.

The Guernsey Society for the Protection of Animals (GSPCA) and Jersey National Park (JNP) said migratory birds are now arriving to rest and feed after long journeys, while seal pups are beginning to be born along the coastlines.

JNP has asked pet owners to ensure dogs remain on leads around flocks of birds and to clean up after them. The group warned that repeated disturbances force birds to expend valuable energy fleeing instead of recovering, potentially jeopardising their migration.

GSPCA manager Steve Byrne added that the presence of young seals means owners must take extra care.“We love seeing dogs back on Guernsey’s beaches,” he said, “but this is a critical time for local wildlife. Please keep dogs at a safe distance from pups and birds, and call us if you spot an animal in difficulty.”

Both organisations stressed that simple steps from dog walkers can make a significant difference in protecting fragile wildlife populations during this crucial period.