A Dundonald stray dog has celebrated his first year of freedom after a prolonged legal case for his life

Max the dog captured the hearts and minds of people in Northern Ireland last year when he was held in council kennels while his future was decided by the courts.

Lisburn and Castlereagh dog wardens captured the homeless puppy in December 2024 over concerns Max was a banned Pit Bull type breed and kept him locked up until the Lisburn Magistrates Court set him free in October 2025.

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Max’s owner, Molly Piper said: “The last year of owning Max has proven that he is one of the best dogs I’ve ever met.

“He is so full of joy and love, truly the most affectionate boy who always wants cuddles.

“He gets along with every dog he meets and he even shares a house harmoniously with my five cats and two guinea pigs.

“Max is an absolute delight, a very gentle soul and a real one in a million.

“It’s a privilege to own him, love him and watch him thrive every day. I’m very much looking forward to our many years together.”

Campaigners for Max took on a legal challenge after council wardens had assessed him as a Pit Bull type, which could have resulted in the dog being destroyed.

However, despite the court ruling Max is a banned breed, he was allowed to be re-homed to Molly at her family’s ‘Mid Antrim Animal Sanctuary’ under strict rules, including wearing a muzzle in public.

Animal campaigner, Zara Duncan who played a key role in Max’s survival, said: “I think, I and thousands of others across Northern Ireland and the world knew how special Max was, he just needed to find Molly and well, the photos of him speak for themselves.

“While he’s living life to the fullest, it’s important to remember he’s still under the heavy restrictions that come with being deemed a dangerous dog.

“It saddens me as everything about his nature couldn’t be any further from being dangerous, he is just a loveable and gentle dog as anyone can see.”