It would be the first project of its kind in the Highlands and would be sure to get tails wagging…
New plans have been submitted for a secure field at Dores, by Loch Ness, where dog owners could safely let their beloved pets off the lead.
The project, spearheaded by Jan Donaldson and Lynn Moffat, is aimed at giving pooches with social or behavioural issues a bit more freedom to roam without fear of them escaping or being harmed. The applicants say that a lack of interaction with other dogs during their formative years can cause such issues.
Research of dog lover forums on social media also suggests many dogs run off at the fear of being approached by other dogs – with some going missing or being struck by traffic.
The applicants are seeking consent to put up 6ft fencing around the field, currently a horse paddock, at Torr Gardens.
Sighthounds are one example of a breed set to benefit as they hunt by sight and speed and are prone to running off and getting lost when they spot prey.
The project, which could be up and running by the summer if planning permission is approved, would be the first of its kind in the Highlands.
Pet owners would able able to book out the field for an hour for their own dogs and use trainers or behaviorists. Trainers would also be able to book out the field for classes.
The applicants estimate that there are 29,118 dogs in the Highlands and state that inquiries on social media show that the demand is there. They have also consulted vets and dog trainers in the area.
Their application states: “A secure field allows dog owners with dogs who have issues to allow their dogs to be themselves and be a dog, safe and secure in the knowledge that no dog off lead or otherwise can run up to their dog causing an unwanted reaction.”
There are now thought to be a number of secure dog walking fields – a relatively new concept – across the UK.
Dogs would be kept in vehicles until the previous field user has their dogs safely locked in their cars.
The field would be monitored to ensure it is clean, has fresh water and has all waste removed.
Correspondence from the applicants within the planning documents states parking would be at a pull-in area opposite the Dores Inn, as there would be no parking on site of the field.
The application was validated by Highland Council on January 17.
