Dogs have always been welcome visitors to the Sefton Coast - and that remains the same today.
For many, a day at the beach wouldn’t be complete without the company of our canine friends. That’s why we’re proud to have a dog friendly coastline.
But to keep the coastline safe, clean and enjoyable for everyone, dog owners and walkers should remember to act responsibly at all times.
And while there’s so much fun to be had, beaches can pose a range of hazards to both our dogs and wildlife if not kept under control.
The 'Take The Lead' campaign is supported by the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership, which includes Green Sefton and partner organisations working up and down the coast.
Its aim is to give people the information and guidance they need to understand the coast, be proud of it, and help us protect it.
Step one is simple - take the lead wherever you go! Keeping dogs on a lead and under control helps in many ways.
Step two is to read through our Information For Dog Owners pages to learn more about exactly what measures are in place, and why they're there.
Step three is to pay close attention to signage while out on the coast, and to ask Green Sefton's brilliant rangers if you have any questions.
Try our dog behaviour quiz!
1. When should you have your dog on a lead?
A. At all times when on the coast, but especially when walking through enclosures with cattle in them.
B. Sometimes, but as long as I can call them back, it's OK.
C. Who cares?!
2. Your dog is about to dive into a freshwater pool in the dune slacks. Do you:
A. Guide them away - other animals are living there!
B. Let them have a quick wade and then pull them away.
C. Cheer them on while they splash around.
3. Your dog has left some mess. What's the next step?
A. Bag it immediately! Find the nearest bin or take the mess home.
B. Bag it, but pop the bag down or hang it on a tree. You'll get it on the way back.
C. Carry on, nothing to see here...
4. Your dog gets excited because there are lots of birds nesting on the beach. What's the best thing to tell them?
A. "Let's find another route - those birds need their rest and you'll spook them!"
B. "We'll take a closer look, but stay nearby!"
C. "Get 'em, boy!"
5. There's a fair bit of rubbish and some items you don't recognise on the beach. What's the best option?
A. Keep your dog well clear. Tell a member of Green Sefton staff that there are foreign items on the beach so they can investigate.
B. Have a walk around. Move away if your dog starts trying to sniff or eat something.
C. Carry on and let the dog sniff or chew to their heart's content.
The results:
If you answered A to everything, then well done, you're showing perfect behaviour on the coast! You took the lead, and we appreciate it.
If you answered B, you've got the right idea but could improve. Check out our Information For Dog Owners pages to learn more.
If you answered C, you're not showing positive behaviour on the coast, and it could even endanger you and your dog. Read our informational pages and start taking the lead in protecting our incredible natural habitat.