The case of Lennox the dog who was taken into custody by Belfast City Council in May 2010 has finally been settled. A judge has decided that the dog must be put to sleep - and this time there can be no appeal.

It is a case that has rumbled on for more than two years, outraging dog lovers, and building momentum as it continued. Lennox's owner Caroline Barnes can at least content herself with the knowledge that she fought tooth and nail for her beloved dog, appealing again and again in the hope of saving his life. I would like to think that in the same situation I would have found the strength to do the same. You can read more about Caroline and Lennox's story in a previous blog post.

Whatever the wrongs and rights of the case - and there seem to be several discrepancies about the way Lennox was initially assessed and taken - at the heart of this case is a tragedy, because for over two years Lennox has been imprisoned, isolated and kept in conditions that no dog should have to endure. And all that time his family loved him, and fought to be reunited with him. No dog - and no dog owners - should be put through that.

If his family is still kept apart from him as his life is brought to an end, I do hope that some kind soul rests a tender hand on his head, and whispers a loving word in his ear. But I doubt it.

The other hard fact is that there are dogs like Lennox all over the UK; imprisoned awaiting their fate. Let's not forget them - so if Lennox's story touched your heart, find a dog like him in your area and lend them your support.

R.I.P. Lennox - run free.

Guide Dogs for the Blind have today revealed that a shockingly high number of their dogs are attacked:
 

It's that time of year again when the temperature rises. Some may like it hot - but that doesn't include most dogs, certainly the temperatures parked cars can reach is a danger for dogs so the RSPCA have a really important message:
 
Following the sudden rise in temperature over the last couple of days the RSPCA is urging owners not to leave pets in cars, conservatories or caravans whilst they are enjoying the sunshine.
 

HOUNDS HONOURED AT THE UK’S BIGGEST AWARDS CEREMONY FOR DOGS
Dogs Trust announces canine champions to a star studded audience

Tonight the UK’s most heroic canines rubbed shoulders and paws with dog loving celebrities as the winners of the 2012 Dogs Trust Honours were revealed at London’s Honourable Artillery Company.

Defra recently revealed Government plans to tackle irresponsible dog ownership - you can read Defra's statement and how to respond in this previous blogpost. There has been disappointment within the dog world that the proposals didn't really tackle the issue of how to deal with dangerous dogs. The RSPCA is currently running a campaign called 42 Teeth - "All dogs have 42 teeth, but only some have irresponsible owners."

CHARITY CALLS ON MPS TO TAKE THE LEAD ON DANGEROUS DOGS
Dogs Trust launches policy document on irresponsible dog ownership
 
Dogs Trust this week called on MPs to join the charity in tackling irresponsible dog ownership at its annual House of Commons reception hosted by Jim Fitzpatrick MP.