Dog walker dies after a dog attack in Surrey
[This article will be updated as more information becomes available]
A 28-year-old dog walker has died following a dog attack in Caterham, Surrey.
Police have now confirmed that the woman is believed to have been walking “a number of dogs” at the time of the incident, which occurred in Gravelly Hill.
The incident also resulted in a second woman needing hospital treatment for dog bites. Her condition is not life-threatening, according to the police.
The police have said they have now detained eight dogs, which still remain in custody while the investigation continues.
Officers are now working with both a forensic pathologist and a veterinary pathologist, due to the nature of the incident.
Inspector Lyndsey Whatley, Borough Commander for Tandridge, said: “This is a tragic incident where a young woman has sadly lost her life and our thoughts are with her family and friends.
“I know that yesterday’s events will be of real concern to the local community and I would like to reassure residents that we are confident all the dogs involved are in the custody of police whilst we investigate the circumstances of what has happened.”
“If you have any information but have not yet spoken to police then please contact us.”
Police can be contacted quoting PR/45230004384 via:
- Webchat on their website https://www.surrey.police.uk/
- The online reporting tool https://www.surrey.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/
- Or on the phone on 101
Local residents have raised concerns in the past about the number of dogs being walked in the area.
Are you a dog care professional affected by this story? Email editorial@thecaninetimes.co.uk
One Comment
Jackie
I feel very sad this has happened, I’m not surprised though, when you’re walking several dogs you end up with pack mentality unfortunately lots of people do not read the signs or understand the signs due to lack of education., when a fight starts if the dogs do not respect you, respect does not come from being strict with dogs far from it. Respect comes from trust Stability and your reliability. (working with not dominating a dog gains so much respect) Often when a fight starts, people start screaming and shouting this only serves to exasperate the situation. I might end up with a lot of harsh comments, but one person should not be walking several dogs in a public space , especially if they do not understand their nature. when I have been out walking, I have many times seen dogs in groups circling other dogs, or worse circling a person. The person walking them is possibly without training, completely oblivious to the potential danger, and then, if one of the dogs they are walking, goes a bit rogue, they ban it and this is where I end up getting involved. I end up with a very stressed out owner with a very stressed dog which is relying on instinct. The dog and the owner given completely inappropriate advice and training. Who’s dog has now gone rogue, having gone through the various developmental stages without the appropriate guidance and training.