On 2 October 2025, the court determined that Max meets the legal definition of a Pit Bull Terrier Type under relevant legislation. This decision was made following detailed assessment and consideration of all evidence presented.
The court ruled that while Max is a banned type, he may be rehomed subject to compliance with a number of strict conditions, including being insured, microchipped, muzzled in a public space, always to be exercised on a lead, kept in a secured environment and neutered. These conditions must be met by the new owner within 8 weeks.
The council is liaising with the person who has been fully vetted and deemed suitable by the Mid Antrim Animal Sanctuary in association with the USPCA to become the legal owner of Max. We wish him to be placed in her care as soon as possible subsequent to her confirmed compliance with the required conditions.
You can view our frequently asked questions on the abandoned dog known as Max using this link