Police Horses Targeted in Dog Attack on Shepherd’s Bush Green
The Metropolitan Police are hunting witnesses after two of their police horses were mauled by a rogue dog during a patrol in Shepherd’s Bush Green, W12.
The shocking assault took place around 11:30am on Monday, April 28, when Police Horses Yvonne and Snaffles, ridden by Sergeant Leon Astley and PC Grace Miller-McCormack, were suddenly chased and bitten by an out-of-control dog.
Out-of-Control Dog Bites Mounted Officers’ Horses
The aggressive dog repeatedly lunged at the horses’ legs, while its owner struggled to regain control. Members of the public stepped in to help detain the animal.
Thankfully, Yvonne and Snaffles only suffered minor injuries and are now recovering in their stables. The officers escaped unscathed.
“What should have been a routine patrol turned unexpectedly eventful, where our hardworking police horses were sadly injured in the course of their duty. Fortunately, Yvonne and Snaffles are recovering well and are being well cared for,” said Sergeant Astley of the Met Police Mounted Branch.
Warning for Dog Owners: Control Your Pets or Face Severe Penalties
The Metropolitan Police warn dog owners to keep pets under control, especially around horses. Offenders face heavy fines or jail time – up to six months for dangerous control breaches, or up to five years if someone is injured.
The dog responsible was seized but has since been returned to its owner. Police investigations continue, but no arrests have been made yet.
Witnesses Urged to Speak Out
The Met wants anyone who saw the attack or has footage to get in touch. Call 101 or contact @MetCC on X (formerly Twitter), quoting CAD2691/28APR25.
Meet the Horses
- Yvonne – 13 years old, named for her big ears, has served the force since October 2020.
- Snaffles – 15 years old, a seasoned pro in public order policing across central London, also known for performing in the Mounted Branch’s Activity Ride at Olympia.
The Metropolitan Police remind all dog owners: if your dog does not have reliable recall, keep it on a lead to protect others, especially horses.
