Shocking moment dog kills deer in Richmond Park - as police hunt pet’s owner
4 December 2024, 10:41 | Updated: 4 December 2024, 10:44
Police are searching for a dog owner whose pet was filmed chasing and killing a deer in London's Richmond Park.
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The dog, that appears to be a spaniel-type breed, can be seen chasing a lone deer through trees and across a road in a shortened clip posted online by Met officers who patrol the Royal Parks.
They are appealing for information to trace the owner after the attack, which took place at around 12.30pm on Monday at Sheen Cross.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, police said: "We would like to speak to the dog owner in relation to a fatal attack on a deer in Richmond Park yesterday at about 12:30pm near to Sheen Cross."
Police appeal for dog walker who allowed canine to chase deer in Richmond Park
"As a reminder, it is illegal to allow dogs to chase deer.
"Dog walkers must ensure their pets are under close control at all times and if there is any doubt about their temperament or recall ability, then keep it on a lead."
More than 600 red and fallow deer live in Richmond Park, which is a national nature reserve.
The Royal Parks website says: "Unfortunately, we're alerted to a number of incidents every year involving dogs chasing deer.
"As well as causing extreme stress to the deer, this can also result in a stampede, or in the deer running across the road and into oncoming traffic to escape.
"Owners of dogs who chase wildlife in the Parks could face criminal prosecution."
One person who watched the police's video posted: "It's about time dogs should be banned from all the royal parks!!! A huge amount of dog owners think they are entitled to let their dogs do what they want to the point of taking selfies whilst their dogs are in the ponds chasing swans and other birds."
Another commented: "Wow that's awful. Hopefully banned from owning pets ever again and a crippling fine."
Anyone with information can email Richmondpark@met.police.uk
