Rowan's role on the fells

For a National Trust ranger in the Lakes, every day is Take Your Dog to Work Day

- Emily Rothery

Every June many people celebrate Take Your Dog to Work Day and surveys show that taking a canine companion along to the workplace can reduce stress and boost performance and job satisfaction. National Trust Ranger Sarah Anderson knows better than most the joy of having a four-legged friend alongside her in the working environment, but not just for one day of the year.

Much of Sarah’s time involves upland work in the Southern Lake District fells and her lively nine-year-old border collie, Rowan, can be found by her side almost every working day.

‘Rowan loves to be in the fells with me whatever the weather, sun or snow,’ she says. ‘Snow is definitely her favorite, though.’

The strong bond between the pair means Rowan will never stray far from Sarah’s side but if she does it will be to find a nearby beck where she loves to swim and cool down on a hot day.

Sarah is a part of a team that spends their days on the high fells undertaking work for Fix the Fells, a partnership project that aims to protect the Lakeland fells from erosion by maintaining and repairing paths. ‘We work every year from March to October with the rangers doing the project work while a band of invaluable volunteers do the maintenance,’ Sarah adds. ‘We cover the Coniston fells, Helvellyn and a little of the Eastern fells. Places such as Striding Edge, Scafell Pike, Crinkle Crags and Catbells are our office.’

Sarah is clearly dedicated to her work and enjoys the challenges and variables involved. ‘Every day for us can be different, whether it’s the people we meet, the weather we contend with or just the work on the ground. It keeps us on our toes.’