USPCA Frustration Over Lack of Transparency and Partnership Working in Max the Dog Case

USPCA Frustration Over Lack of Transparency and Partnership Working in Max the Dog Case

The USPCA has expressed significant frustration and disappointment with Lisburn and Castlereagh Council's handling of the case involving Max, a dog they believe may have been wrongly assessed as a pit bull terrier. Council officials have reneged on a commitment to work in partnership with the USPCA, undermining transparency and trust in decision making about this dog's future.

Nora Smith the CEO of the USPCA said:

"The lack of consultation and failure to follow through on their public commitment to elected representatives to work with the USPCA is deeply disappointing. People are really concerned about Max's future and how Lisburn and Castlereagh Council are handling this complex case.

We are extremely frustrated by the Council's actions despite their previous commitment to work with us. Max's future should be determined by a transparent and impartial process of the highest standards that the public can trust."

While the USPCA continues to offer its assistance to ensure that Max is assessed fairly and in accordance with animal welfare standards. In an effort to resolve the situation, the charity is reluctantly taking legal action. To do the right thing for Max, please donate to Save Max from Euthanasia.

 

Notes to Editors

Officials at a meeting on 17 December informed Councillors that they would collaborate with the USPCA in selecting an independent third-party assessor for Max's re-evaluation. This is a professional dog breed assessor not affiliated with any organisation, either a public body or charity.

However, contrary to this commitment, the Council proceeded to appoint a Designated Liaison Officer (DLO) from Merseyside Police to carry out the assessment.

DLO's have the equivalent responsibilities as dog wardens in Northern Ireland. The USPCA believes that this assessor being affiliated with a police force with enforcement powers, cannot be considered independent, a crucial requirement for ensuring fairness in the evaluation process.

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