A WALK in Wrexham has been named one of the best locations to take your dog for a walk.
With spring officially here and it bringing warmer weather, dog walkers can expect longer days out with man’s best friend.
PDSA vets, together with PDSA Pet Insurance, have named the best dog walking locations across Wales to make the most of the great outdoors this season.
Among the top six, is a walk round Chirk Castle. The full list is:
Chirk Castle woodland walk - 2.5-mile circular walk
This easy route has great views of the Chirk Castle parkland, taking you through Deershed Wood to a 500-year-old sweet chestnut tree. There is some uneven terrain with slopes and gates, but the majority of the route is clearly marked. This beautiful route does require dogs to be kept on a lead throughout.
Ragwen Point walk - 2.5-mile circular walk
This route has some steep climbs and rough terrain but offers stunning views across Carmarthen Bay. With plenty of opportunity to admire native wildflowers and plant species, the walk crosses Gilam point before going down to a small beach – making the perfect pit stop for you and your pet!
Porthgain to Abereiddi coastal walk - 4-mile circular walk (with a few steep bits!)
For views of some of Pembrokeshire’s finest coastal scenery, Porthgain is the place to be. On the walk from the tiny fishing port to Abereiddi’s famous Blue Lagoon, look out for seabirds and other wildlife, whilst exploring the area’s industrial past. Livestock do roam in parts, so it’s vital to keep your pup on a lead.
Llanbedrog walking trail - 3-mile circular walk with some steps
Passing Wales’ oldest art gallery and the famous Tin Man sculpture, this two-hour walk through woodland leads up to spectacular view points at Mynydd Tir-y-Cwmwd. Parking is available at Llanbedrog beach car park.
Craflwyn, Hafod y Llan and Llyn Dinas walk - 6.5-mile route
Not for the faint hearted, this route explores the heathland and mountainous terrain of the Nant Gwynant Valley. Whilst visiting breathtaking waterfalls and the stunning lake Llyn Dinas, ensure you have a map and compass with you as only part of the route is waymarked. Passing through farms means you will be likely to encounter livestock, so keep dogs on a lead for this route.
Rhosili headland walk - 3.5-mile trail
This walk across the headland takes in views across the three-mile-long beach of Rhosili and out to Worm’s Head, before leading you back through a medieval open field strip system. Pack your walking boots because there is some uneven terrain, but this trail is generally manageable for all fitness levels.
PDSA Vet Nurse Gemma Renwick said: “Regardless of the season, walking should be part of every dog’s daily routine to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Most dogs need at least 1-2 walks per day – unless otherwise specified by your vet.
“A brisk walk is a great opportunity for your dog to burn off extra energy, while a slow, meandering walk – where you let your dog sniff and explore for as long as they want – is great for their mental health.
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“It’s important to remember that every dog is different, and you know your dog best. For older dogs, puppies who can’t go as far, dogs with health problems, or for some flat-faced breeds, make sure to choose an easier walk, or modify longer walks, to make it easier and more enjoyable for them.
“More challenging walks, that are longer in length, are best suited to very active dogs like Collies and Labradors, but always be mindful to go out at the cooler times of day and avoid long walks when the weather is very hot.
“When out and about, remember that although there is no blanket law requiring dogs to be kept on a lead in all public spaces, there are certain areas where a lead is compulsory. This includes children’s play areas, sports pitches, roads, and beaches. These areas, known as Public Spaces Protection Orders, will include signs detailing any restrictions, so always familiarise yourself with these, especially if visiting a new park for the first time.
“To make the most of your dog walking this spring, here are some of our favourite locations across Wales that will ensure you and your pooch have a barking good time.”
To find out more visit pdsa.org.uk/pdsa-petinsurance
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