The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has clarified that new rules on livestock worrying do not cover dog attacks on ridden horses. Horses moved between fields remain protected under the updated legislation.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act came into force this year and expanded police powers for livestock worrying cases that include horses. DEFRA stated that the law covers horses on roads and paths between fields but does not extend to ridden horses on or off the road.
Victoria Privett, co-founder of the Leash & Release campaign, said she and Katie Smart contacted DEFRA last autumn for clarification. She noted fears that horses would fall through gaps again, adding that riding in public spaces is the most vulnerable time for horses and riders.
The campaign plans to petition for updates to the Dangerous Dogs Act once the next prime minister is in place and no general election is imminent. Solicitor Hannah Bradley and British Horse Society safety team manager Des Payne both called for clearer routes to prosecution in such cases.
A DEFRA spokesperson confirmed that the Crown Prosecution Service will assess cases under the 1991 Act on an individual basis.