A vicious attack by dogs on a horse at Whakatane District Pony Club has left the horse seriously injured and horse owners fearful the dogs will return.

Pam Mossman said her 13-year-old granddaughter’s horse, Bella, which is 11, suffered several injuries, including bites and skin ripped off her stomach, flank and three legs.

The attack happened overnight last Thursday.

The family’s second horse, Polly, suffered some strains believed to have been caused by trying to get away from the dogs.

Because of the nature of the injuries, Mrs Mossman said the vet believed more than one dog was involved.

Whakatane District Council team leader Verna Kinney said the council was aware of the matter and it was under investigation.

Ms Mossman said club members had been aware for some time that something was bothering their horses.

“We have known that something was wrong [at the pony club]; something has been spooking the horses, but we didn’t know what and we certainly didn’t think it was dogs.”

Mrs Mossman said there had been a few horses jump out of paddocks and other behaviour that in retrospect indicated they might have been spooked by dogs.

Their horse Polly is lame following an incident a few months ago.

“We didn’t know why she had hurt herself but that is probably because she was being chased around by dogs.”

Mrs Mossman said both of their horses had been moved to another property since Thursday night’s attack.

Members of the pony club are now taking turns to watch the five horses at the club 24 hours a day as they are concerned the dogs will return. They are also considering ways to better protect the property.

“Someone is letting their dogs free roam and has no idea what their dogs are doing when they can’t see them.”

Mrs Mossman said apart from the physical injuries to the horses, there was also concern about the psychological impact.

“With a 13-year-old girl riding these horses, are they going to be terrified if they see a dog?” Mrs Mossman said.

“This is not just about an attack on a horse. A year ago, my granddaughter's cat was attacked by a dog and that was a lot of money at the vet.”

Mrs Mossman said there was a problem with roaming dogs around Whakatāne.

“One day it will be a child or someone in a wheelchair who can’t get away. Council says it is at its wits end with what they can do.”

She said the Whakatāne District Council dog ranger had been out to the pony club.

The council's Ms Kinney encouraged people with information relating to an incident, roaming stock, or dangerous dogs, to contact the council on the 24/7 number, 306 0500.