UPDATED with picture: Hunt for owners of dog which savagely bit and chased horse

Do you know the owner of this dog? Police would like to track them in connection with a horse attack in Ashridge

The savage onslaught by a Staffordshire bull terrier-type breed of dog took place close to the monument and park’s Brownlow Cafe on Sunday at around 3.40pm.

The dog began biting the legs of a large grey horse which was being ridden through the park, causing the rider to lose control of the horse and scream for help.

The canine was captured by police officers, who arrived in time to witness the dog chasing the horse. It was then taken to a kennel where it remains while officers investigate the incident.

Do you know the owner of this dog? Police would like to track them in connection with a horse attack in Ashridge PNL-141223-131840001

The dog is described as being around 18 months old, dark tan or brown brindle in colour with a white chest.

Police would like the owner of the dog to contact them, so that they can help them with the investigation.

PC Tony Knibb, investigating, said: “The horse sustained several injuries from bites and is being treated for these, luckily officers were patrolling nearby and managed to captured the dog otherwise more serious injuries may have occurred.

“Incidents such as this one are very rare, but this will serve as a reminder to dog owners to make sure they are in control of their pets when they are in public places.

“There were many people in the area and the woman riding the horse was screaming for help, as the dog attacked.

“There was also a man and a woman, who may have been the dog’s owners, who left the area in a silver Vauxhall. If anyone believes they saw what happened or you believe this was your dog, or know who the dog may belong to, please contact me.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call PC Knibb on the police non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 398 of December 21.