Dogsey

A six-year-old dog classed as a “pitbull-type”, who was the subject of an application for destruction because of his appearance, was granted a reprieve two days before Christmas, provided certain conditions are met.

Rudolph was seized five weeks ago under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. This came about after he was examined by Sergeant Allan Knight, dog legislation officer from police headquarters, Middlemoor and classed as a pitbull-type - and prohibited - under criteria given by the American Dog Breeders' Association.

Devon and Cornwall Constabulary made the application for Rudolph's destruction during civil proceedings at Bodmin Magistrates' Court. However, the court heard that Rudolph is not a danger to public safety, and ordered that his owner, Terrance Cathrae, must have Rudolph neutered, micro-chipped, tattooed and insured. If he does not, the dog will be destroyed after two months.

Sergeant Knight said that Rudolph, who is in police kennels at a secret location, would only be returned to Mr Cathrae when the court requirements are met and that he would have to be muzzled and kept on a lead at all times in public.

Mr Cathrae agreed to pay £300 court costs and said he would meet all the conditions necessary to get his dog back. He said that his other two bull terriers had been missing Rudolph, who he said is not a fighting dog.