Respect the Lead, for People Too

When I first launched the Respect the Lead campaign, my focus was on dogs: raising awareness of why some dogs need space, and helping owners understand that not every dog wants an off-lead greeting. Over the years, the campaign has grown far beyond that, and recently, it’s become clear that our posters also need to speak up for people.

Be respectful Respect The Lead Campaign

I was contacted by Robert Davies from Neath Port Talbot, South Wales, who had a frightening encounter with an off-lead dog. Robert has a neurological condition and uses crutches. Although the dog didn’t cause him physical injury, the experience left him anxious about walking in public spaces. Like so many others, he’s been told, “Don’t worry, my dog is friendly.” But for Robert, and for many others with visible or invisible health conditions, even a playful bounce can be enough to cause a fall, pain, or lasting distress.

Robert’s email stayed with me — not only because of his experience, but because it highlights something we all need to remember: respecting the lead is about keeping both dogs and people safe.

New Respect The Lead Poster

Respect The Lead human aspect do and dontsThat’s why I’ve now designed a new version of our poster with a human focus. It reminds owners:

Don’t:

  • Let your dog run over and jump up to someone
  • Let your dog off the lead if you cannot easily recall them
  • Forget that people and children may not wish to interact with your dog

Do:

  • Check with others before allowing your dog to interact
  • Remember, people and children may be scared of dogs
  • Recognise that some have mobility or sensory needs — and not all disabilities are visible
Respect the Lead for People Too

Paws on Patrol Sharing The Campaign

I’m proud to say that our partners at Paws on Patrol in Neath Port Talbot have already been sharing these messages widely. They’ve installed over 80 signs and 5 banners, reaching busy walking spots like Aberavon Beach. Their latest survey shows that 55% of people still feel alarmed or distressed when approached by an unknown off-lead dog. Clearly, there is still work to be done.

Respect the Lead has always been about education and empathy

Whether your dog is on a lead because of training, health, or temperament, or whether you yourself are managing a disability, injury, or simple fear of dogs, the principle remains the same: space and respect keep everyone safe.

Share our New ‘People’ Poster

Download our new poster here [Download the new Respect The Lead Poster JPEG]

You can download our free posters and resources at www.respectthelead.com.

Find more about Paws On Patrol here.