Paw friendly trail launched with new partnership as pilot continues at RHS Garden Rosemoor

A shady dog walking route and increased access to water and refreshments offered to summer dog walkers at RHS Garden Rosemoor.

As we head into the hottest months of the year, RHS Garden Rosemoor has launched a new guide to help visitors keep their dogs comfortable during walks on their dog friendly days every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays.

The famous gardens are currently trialling a 'paws on paths' pilot to assess the level of demand for increased access for dog owners until 17 September. To preserve the horticultural integrity of the planting and safeguard the visitor experience for families, dog owners are asked to keep to paths and off lawns as they explore the 65-acre site near Great Torrington, North Devon. However, in the summer heat, these constraints can be an issue for pets. The new leaflet provided on entry now highlights the areas of the gardens that offer plenty of shade to ensure paws are protected when temperatures rise. The map also shows another shorter and fully accessible route suitable for visitors with less time to spare or looking for easier dog walks.

Extra watering points have also gone into the garden and visitors with dogs can now enjoy increased access to catering facilities, so that everyone can keep well hydrated. Additional tables have been provided on the main restaurant terrace so walkers can enjoy lunch with garden views and the outside tables at the Wisteria Tea Room are also now dog friendly.

The RHS garden has teamed up a local natural pet food manufacturer, Forthglade, who have supplied the new watering points for dogs and are also providing visitors with free treats for their pets on arrival at the gardens.

'We have faced a bit of a conundrum balancing the needs of dog walkers with protecting the beauty and quality of gardens. The 'paw on paths' restriction is the best way for us to ensure the impact of the pilot on our team and the plants is minimised, but we also understand that sensitive pads need to be safeguarded on sunny days. We are confident that given the additional information, responsible dog owners can continue to enjoy long walks in our gardens this summer.' says Site Manager Emma Thompson.

Liane Meade, from Okehampton based Forthglade, says 'We are always looking to nourish that special bond between pooches and people, especially by partnering with local charities. When we saw that Rosemoor was going to trial dog friendly days it was the perfect opportunity to reach out and work together. We hope our natural treats and water stations help to make doggy visits to the gardens even more enjoyable.'

Before the 'paw's on paths' pilot this year, RHS Rosemoor ran popular evening only 'Walkies' events in the summer. The trial was introduced in response to an increase in requests for more dog friendly access by both RHS members and the public - it continues every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday until 17 September when the scheme will be reviewed.