06.11.25
As the nights draw in, many dogs are missing out on vital exercise – and it’s not because their owners don’t care. New research reveals that women across the UK are cutting back on evening walks in winter out of concern for their personal safety.
Almost two-thirds of women dog owners (61%) say they walk their dogs less when the nights get darker, with worries about poorly lit streets, unsafe walking routes, and antisocial behaviour keeping them indoors. In some regions, including London, Belfast, and Brighton, that figure rises as high as 78%. This means that dogs are missing out on nearly three and a half hours of exercise each week.
At Naturewatch Foundation, we know how vital the human-animal bond is – not just for our pets’ physical wellbeing, but for our own mental health, connection, and sense of belonging. When women feel unsafe outdoors, both people and animals lose out. That’s why we’re highlighting the importance of safe, inclusive spaces where everyone can enjoy the companionship, exercise, and calm that dog walking brings.
Initiatives like ‘NightWalkies’, created by YuMOVE in partnership with WalkSafe, are helping women by bringing local dog owners together for community walks. These events help women feel supported while ensuring their dogs stay active and happy through the winter months.
Research found that 74% of women would welcome more organised walks like these. YuMOVE CEO Fiona Hope, speaking to the Daily Mirror, said:
“When women feel safer, dogs can enjoy more of the exercise that keeps their tails wagging and their wellbeing thriving.”
This reflects the key message behind our Protect Animals, Protect People campaign. When we strengthen safety and compassion within our communities, we protect not only animals but the people who love and care for them.
YuMOVE and WalkSafe have created a free downloadable NightWalkies Toolkit to help you get started. Why not gather a few friends, neighbours, and their dogs to take those first safe steps together?
Together, we can protect the bond that protects us all.
