A new scheme is being set up by the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust to register commercial dog walkers.
The heaths, which consist of seven commons, including Woodbury, Bicton and East Budleigh, are a popular venue for dog walkers, both private and commercial.
Now, in a move to help improve the management of the area, a registration scheme is being set up for commercial organisations offering dog walking or training services using the heaths.
Kim Strawbridge, East Devon Pebblebed Heaths Site Manager, said: “The Conservation Trust was set up to look after this internationally important landscape, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
“For more than 90 years people have been granted the right to use the heaths for ‘air and exercise’ and since 2004 the Countryside and Rights of Way Act has underwritten this access.
“But rights of access have always applied to individuals and have never been granted to organisations using the heaths for commercial purposes, although we can agree to such activities on a long-term or case-by-case basis.
“We have always welcomed individual dog walkers. Horse-riders and cyclists are also welcome on the heaths, provided they follow the spirit of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act. We do, however, ask the organisers of any event or activity, whether for profit or not, to speak to us first so they can be properly licenced.
“We know that the heaths are an amazing place for wildlife and are home to thousands of species, many of which are rare. So it’s vitally important that we balance the needs of both people and wildlife on this popular and special site.
“Just as we licence horse-riding schools to use the heaths, we also need professional dog walkers to seek a licence from us. There will be a nominal fee of £50 per year, which will go back into the management of the heaths.
“We want to work with businesses that share the value we place on the heaths and operate in a sustainable and professional manner.”
Stevie Hill runs Just Purr-fect (correct) in Exmouth and employs nine members of staff in the dog walking and day-care business. She has been walking dogs on the heaths since she started the company six years ago.
She said: “I think this new scheme is an excellent idea, it makes things really open and members of the public will know commercial dog walkers are using the heaths in a responsible, professional way.”
The East Devon Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust’s licencing policy is designed to ensure that activities:
Kim added: “We’re also asking all dog walkers, not just commercial ones, to remember the Pebblebed Dog Code.”
The code includes: