Another witness, Sam Ogden, described how one of the dogs approached and bit her, causing searing pain. Johnston reportedly attempted to control the dog but struggled to regain command of the pack.
Ben Kershaw, who discovered Johnston’s body, described the chaotic scene with dogs roaming off-lead and some covered in blood. He performed CPR under emergency operator instructions but was unable to save her.
Coroner’s Findings and Implications
Coroner Richard Travers concluded that Johnston was experienced with the dogs she walked and had taken them out on multiple occasions without prior issues. However, he noted that on this day, she had lost control of the animals, leading to the fatal attack. The inquest did not determine which specific dog was responsible for Johnston’s death.
The coroner emphasised that while Tandridge Council, the authority covering the area, limits professional dog walkers to a maximum of six dogs, no national regulation enforces such limits. He highlighted the need for stricter policies to prevent such tragedies.
Legal and Policy Context
The council policy in Tandridge requires professional dog walkers to have a license if walking dogs on council-owned land, with a limit of six dogs per walker. Walkers must also have third-party liability insurance. Johnston was not a member of any professional association or council-regulated dog-walking scheme.
Aftermath
Two of Johnston’s dogs, including a banned bull terrier, were destroyed following the incident, while the other six dogs have since been returned to their owners. Johnston’s brother, Jordan, confirmed that she was familiar with the animals and had walked the same group numerous times without incident.
The tragic incident has prompted calls for stricter regulations on professional dog walking, with local authorities and animal welfare organizations urging the government to introduce national rules and ensure dog walkers are appropriately trained and certified.
For now, the coroner’s report and recommendations to the Home Secretary aim to prevent such incidents in the future and provide more robust guidelines for professional dog walkers across the country.
