Police are now appealing for witnesses after a muntjac deer had “chunks of flesh” torn off after an attack by two dogs.

Officers were called to Cassiobury Park last Friday (April 16) at around 7pm, to reports of two lurcher-type dogs chasing a deer and causing the animal to get stuck on a fence.

It was reported that the dogs were not on leads, and the deer became injured after getting caught on the fencing.

Officers attended the scene, but by the time they arrived the deer had managed to free itself and ran off – with its condition unknown.

Hertfordshire Constabulary is now looking to trace the owners of the dogs, and is issuing a public appeal.

PC Jenny Edwards, from the constabulary’s Rural Operational Support Team (ROST) said: “We are currently working to establish the circumstances around what happened and would ask anyone who saw the incident to contact police. We’re also keen to trace the owner of the dogs; if this was you, or you know who it is, please get in touch.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to remind people of their responsibilities while out walking dogs in public places. Please ensure you are familiar with legislation around when and where dogs are required to be kept on leads.”

An eyewitness who was concerned for the wellbeing of the deer tried to search the area after it escaped, and fears that it could have died from the shock and the attack itself.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to email rost@herts.pnn.police.uk or report information at herts.police.uk/report or through the non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference 41/28913/21.