The formal legal proceedings in the case of the abandoned dog, known as Max, commenced on Friday 30 May. This was to decide whether the applicant has a right to take part in the next stage of the case, which will determine if Max is a banned Pit Bull Terrier type. This is known as ‘standing’.
Today (13 June 2025), the court decided that the applicant does not have legal standing.
The case will now progress to its main hearing, at which the Court will have to determine whether Max is a banned type and can be re-homed through the appropriate legal framework. The next listing for this case is Tuesday 17 June which will be used to fix a date for the hearing of the council’s application.
During this process, Max will remain in our DAERA approved contracted kennels. He remains safe and well, receiving daily exercise and ongoing socialisation sessions delivered by a USPCA-referred trainer and behaviourist.
We remain committed to complying fully with the legal process and to prioritising Max’s future welfare.