Countryside access
Animals on public rights of way
Bulls
It is an offence, except for certain important exceptions, for the occupier of a field crossed by a right of way to allow a bull to be in it.
The exceptions are:
- bulls not more than 10 months old, and
- bulls which are not of a recognised dairy breed and which are at large with cows or heifers. A recognised dairy breed means one of the following breeds: Ayrshire, British Friesian, British Holstein, Dairy Shorthorn, Guernsey, Jersey and Kerry
Dogs
If a dog prevents someone from using a right of way, for example by standing in the middle of a path and snarling or baring its teeth to oncomers, or where it frightens users, for example by running round them barking in a threatening manner, it is a public nuisance because it has blocked the free use of the way.
Animals in general
The keeper/owner of an animal is liable for damages if the animal injures another person, provided they were aware of the animal's tendency to cause injury.