Dogs 'still being kept in private kennels' after walker, 28, mauled to death

16 July 2023 , 16:30

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Natasha Johnston died from multiple bites to the neck during an attack in January (Image: Facebook)

Five dogs remain in private kennels almost seven months after a professional walker was mauled to death, police say.

Natasha Johnston suffered catastrophic injuries from "multiple penetrating bites" in an incident at Gravelly Hill near Caterham, Surrey, back in January.

Most of the animals are in limbo with their fate still undetermined following the horrific attack.

It has been reported that the dog responsible was her own American Bully XL, and the creature was put down following an investigation into her death

Two of the eight dogs taken by specialists have been returned to their owner.

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Armed officers and a police helicopter swooped on Caterham, Surrey on January 12 (PA)

But the courts are still to decide the next steps that should be taken.

The 28-year-old died from multiple bites to her neck, including one that perforated her jugular vein more than half a year ago.

Surrey Police said today in a statement: "As part of our investigation an expert veterinary report was obtained, which was then shared with the Surrey Coroner.

"As a result of this, two dogs (both Dachshunds) were returned to their owner at the end of April and one dog, which belonged to the deceased, has been put to sleep.

"The five other dogs remain in private kennels pending a decision from Guildford Magistrates Court regarding control orders.

"There is no time limit on how long this process may take," the force told MailOnline.

The publication state that one of the dogs being held is an 11 stone Leonberger that appeared on a BBC programme about problem puppies.

In May, the force confirmed that breed of dog destroyed is believed to be an American Bully XL.

The spokesperson said: "Besides the update on the status of the seized dogs we do not have any further comments or updates on this investigation, as it has now passed to the coroner’s office and will be covered as part of the inquest."

The 'Bully' is a relatively young designer breed which originated in the US in the 1980s, and was introduced as a more family-friendly version of the American Pitbull Terrier.

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It comes in several sizes, including the biggest XL.

After the attack, friends paid tribute to 'bubbly, beautiful' Ms Johnston, who they said had a love of dogs her whole life.

Jo Butchers, 34, said "Long countryside walks with the dogs were her thing.

"She did a lot of dog walking here, not as a professional but with her own dogs and those of friends.

"Then she moved away and that became her job in London. She grew up with dogs, so she always loved them."

Sam Elliott-Gibbs