A dog photographer has warned pet owners against taking pictures of their animals among bluebells this May. 

This is because animals like dogs could be seriously harmful to the native British plant.

Kerry Jordan, who runs a dog photography business, said she is too often seeing well-meaning dog owners letting their pets trample all over the flowers. 

Jordan said: "With a little creativity and care, we can all help preserve our woodlands for future years.

Bluebells are still common in the UK but they are under threat due to habitat destruction, hybridisation with non-native bluebells and the illegal trade of wild-collected bulbs. 

It can take several years for the plant to recover from trample damage as it impacts photosynthesis.

The Woodland Trust has said that the bluebell is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and that digging up the plant is prohibited. 

The National Trust also says intentionally picking, destroying or damaging bluebells is against the law. Those caught could face fines of up to £5,000 per offence.

Their website states: "When we see bluebells in full bloom, it can be so tempting to step into the middle of the colourful carpet to take the perfect photo. But trampling on these delicate flowers causes them long-lasting damage.

"In popular bluebell woods, narrow tracks made by one person soon become wider as more people walk the same route. The bluebells then end up in island-like patches instead of the blue carpet we all love. The bulbs also become damaged when the soil is compacted from the weight of persistent footfall."

Jordan, who photographs dogs for her business, Fur and Fables, offered advice for anyone who wants a keepsake of their pup amid the flowers, without destroying the woodland.

She said: "If you're heading out with your dog this spring, I'd love to encourage you to take those beautiful shots, just with care.

"A little thought goes a long way when it comes to preserving the magic of our wildflowers."

Jordan encouraged dog owners to stick to the natural paths that animals have already used.

"These are the perfect spots to photograph your dog and if you get low with your camera or phone you can create the illusion that your dog is sitting in the bluebells, when they're actually on a clear patch," she said.

Jordan added: "Try shooting from your dog's level or even lower. Not only does it make for a more compelling image, but it allows the bluebells to frame the photo naturally, without your dog needing to be in them."