A long-time resident of Macclesfield reflects on the dedicated work of park rangers and volunteers who maintain the area's green spaces, while addressing ongoing issues with irresponsible dog ownership.
Park Maintenance Challenges
The columnist, who walks their dog daily in Macclesfield's parks, praises the rangers and volunteers for their hard work. At Sutton Reservoir, rangers constantly measure water quality and volume—a critical task they cannot afford to get wrong. In the town centre, two large parks require continuous attention to bowling greens, playgrounds, and fitness equipment, all managed by a small team of full-time staff and a few helpers.
Community Appreciation and Café Highlight
Most visitors are appreciative of the parks, but not all. A notable highlight is the café at South Park near the car park, run by a delightful Colombian couple who make amazing coffee. The columnist recommends trying it.
Dog Waste Problem
Despite 90% of dog owners being conscientious—some even offering spare poo bags in emergencies—there are others who simply do not care. The columnist criticises owners who walk way behind their dog to claim ignorance, stressing that owners should clean up after their pets.
Sheep Worrying: A Serious Risk
The columnist addresses the horrific problem of sheep worrying. They recount a conversation with a lady who insisted her dog would never chase animals, even as her dog ran through a breach in a stone wall towards a flock of sheep. The dog was caught without harm, but the columnist warns that if a lamb had been present, the outcome could have been tragic.
All dogs should be on a lead near livestock. Farmers are legally allowed to shoot a dog that is running loose on their property, which would be awful for everyone. The columnist urges owners not to take the risk.
Expert Dog Trainer's Advice
Vic, a dog trainer with 32 years of experience, has trained over 4,500 dogs of all shapes, breeds, and sizes. He says working with them has been a privilege and they have taught him as much as he taught them. Vic states: "After all this time communicating directly with dogs I can honestly say I have never met a dog I could not help. Owners, however are a little more difficult and need to learn how dogs really communicate. It means getting into the mind of the dog and really understanding. That insight will open a new world to you."
Follow him on Facebook for daily last-minute class updates.
