A long-term solution is yet to be found regarding the electric fence on Petersham Meadows, following a dog attack on a cow last year.


There is currently an electric fence on the meadows, which is rotated every six weeks to allow the cows to graze the entire area.


The National Trust said that although there was a dog ban on the meadows, many owners were still letting their pets off the lead.


This was a concern for the National Trust as it follows an incident last year whereby a cow was attacked by a dog.


There are signs around the meadows banning dogs and a group of nine volunteers monitor the area to ensure dogs are not let off their leads.


Geri Silverstone from the National Trust said: “Dogs on the meadows are an ongoing concern. Nobody is happy with the current fencing arrangement, but while we still have an issue with dogs on the meadows, it’s the safest short term solution.”


Ian Brown, who looks after the cows, was unhappy about the fence as he believes it could be potentially dangerous for the herd.


He said: “I feel the cows should be left to graze the meadow naturally. If they get chased by a dog and run away they may get caught up in the fence, which is a form of torture. I think it’s totally wrong.”


Mr Silverstone of the National Trust said they want to find a long-term solution for Petersham Meadows, to ensure it is a safe place for all users.


The National Trust is holding a series of community workshops in September to work with local residents to find possible solutions to keeping the cows on the meadows.


A large hedge could be grown around the meadows or the cows could graze behind a semi-circular fence.