Record number of dog attacks on horses

A record number of dog attacks on horses have been reported in the past month, according to statistics from the British Horse Society (BHS).

Upward trend

A total of 39 incidents were recorded on www.horseaccidents.org.uk during March 2015, which is more than three times the number of attacks during the same period last year.

Sheila Hardy, senior executive (safety) at the BHS, said:“We will be monitoring the situation very carefully to see whether this is just an isolated spike, or indeed the beginning of an upward trend in the number of dog attacks on horses.

“Either way, it serves as a timely reminder to owners of both dogs and horses to take care and be considerate around each other so that everyone – walkers, riders, dogs and horses – can all get out and about and enjoy the spring weather together.”

Close control

The BHS launchedwww.horseaccidents.org.ukat the end of 2010, as a means of recording incidents involving equestrians.

In order to prevent further attacks on horses, the charity advises dog owners to socialise their animals with horses from an early age.

“Ensure you have your dog under close control and have a reliable recall through training,” said Sheila. “If you see a horse approaching, call them and keep them as quiet as possible in a visible, but safe place. If you do not have a sound recall, please keep your dog on a lead.”

Simple precautions

Horse riders can also take a few simple precautions to help prevent an incident:

• Socialise your horse with dogs at home.
• Always slow to a walk to pass dogs, and let the dog owner know you are approaching.
• Give nervous dogs a wide berth so they do not feel threatened.
• If necessary, stop to allow an excited dog to be caught.