Police have warned owners of the need to keep dogs under control, after a rider fell off and both she and her horse were injured.
Gloucestershire Constabulary is investigating an incident in Stroud on Saturday (24 June) when a loose dog spooked a ridden horse.
“It was reported that a woman was riding her horse across Bear Hill in Rodborough at around 11.45am when an Alsatian-type dog ran up to the horse in what was described as an aggressive manner,” a spokesman for the force said. “This spooked the horse, which caused it to run away and the rider fell off in the process.”
The spokesman added that both the rider and the horse, who was found later, more than a mile away, both sustained minor injuries.
PC Melanie Campbell said: “This incident is a reminder to all dog owners to keep their dogs under control, especially around horses, whether out on a hack or in a field.
“This incident could have had a different outcome for both the rider and the horse and it’s lucky they weren’t seriously injured.”
Officers have asked anyone who saw what happened or knows the owner of the dog to come forward.
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
