'Hank' the dog to be allowed back home

A dog, known as Hank, who was seized by Belfast City Council for 'looking like a pitbull' is to be returned to his owners.

Officials drafted in an expert which declared the dog to be a pitbull terrier type breed - which is banned in Northern Ireland.

However, it is recommended he be placed on the council's exemption register.

A council spokesperson said he had been assessed by an "appropriate expert to be a pitbull terrier type".

They say any behaviour issues can be addressed with proper training.

A court due to make a final ruling, and apply conditions early next week. 

Hank's online petition to have him returned, has more than 280,000 signatures with several celebrities backing the #SaveHank campaign.

If he is returned, it will be the 12th time a dog has been placed on the exemption register under the Dogs (NI) Order 1983 since 2011.

Democratic Unionist MP Gavin Robinson, who represents the east Belfast constituency said: "I am pleased that a positive outcome has been reached in this case. I know how stressful it has been for the family over the last number of weeks.

"It appears the council have been working through the necessary systems as quickly as possible."

Alliance Party deputy leader Naomi Long said the case demonstrated the need to change laws surrounding dangerous dogs.

"As a dog owner, I know only too well the suffering Hank's owners Leonard and Joanne must have gone through since he was taken from them," she said.

"I have been in contact with them and know they will be absolutely delighted by this news.