A horse was put down and its rider injured after being attacked by two dogs in Havering Park Woods, East London, on 20 March. The female rider, in her 30s, sustained injuries that were not life-threatening and was hospitalized. Police seized the two dogs involved, but no arrests have been made yet, and investigations are ongoing. Authorities reminded dog owners of their legal responsibility under the Dangerous Dogs Act to keep dogs under control to avoid serious criminal consequences.

This incident follows recent updates to the Dangerous Dogs Act through the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, which came into effect on 18 March. The updated law strengthens police powers and penalties related to dog attacks on livestock, including attacks on roads and paths, with increased fines and enhanced authority to seize dogs and gather evidence to prevent future incidents.