A dog seized as a stray in Dundonald has spent a year living with his new owner after a court ruling allowed him to be re-homed despite being classed as a banned breed.

Max was taken in by Lisburn and Castlereagh dog wardens in December 2024 over concerns he was a Pit Bull type. He remained in council kennels until Lisburn Magistrates Court ordered his release in October 2025.

The court found Max to be a banned breed but allowed him to go to Molly Piper, whose family runs Mid Antrim Animal Sanctuary. Conditions include wearing a muzzle in public.

Piper said Max has settled well with her five cats and two guinea pigs and gets along with other dogs. She described him as affectionate and gentle.

Campaigner Zara Duncan noted that Max is still subject to restrictions because of his classification. She said his behaviour does not match the label of a dangerous dog.