Since the clock struck midnight in Belfast, Ireland, animal lovers around the world have been holding their breath in hopes that the members of the Belfast City Council come to their senses and cancel the execution of Lennox the dog.
On May 19th, 2010, Lennox the American Bull dog and Lab mix, was taken from his home and family of 5 years because he looked like a pitbull. Thanks to breed specific legislation named the Dangerous Dog Act, the Belfast City Council decided that Lennox was a threat because he looked like a pitbull, despite the fact that he’d never shown signs of aggression or hurt anyone. For two years Lennox’s family has been unable to see their beloved family member while they fight to save him. Their plight has gained international attention and support.
The ability to appeal the Belfast City Council’s decision to euthanize the dog ended at midnight on July 11, 2012.
This week supporters from around the world have been overwhelming the international media in an attempt to get Lennox’s story told and hopefully to dissuade the BCC from following through on the execution. Ireland’s First Minister Peter Robinson attempted to intervene unsuccessfully on behalf of Lennox saying “As a dog lover I am very unhappy with the outcome of the case.” Victoria Stillwell, star of Animal Planet’s It’s Me or the Dog has been outspoken about Lennox’s case and has offered rehoming solutions which have not been accepted. Here in the United States, members of New York’s animal rights group No Kill New York held protests outside of the British and Irish consulates.
Today Lennox's family posted a public statement on the Save Lennox facebook page.
“We are sorry to say at the present time Belfast city council seem to be intent on killing our boy. Despite previous assurances otherwise, we have been denied the opportunity to say goodbye. We have also been told that we cannot collect his body and bring Len home. We have been informed however that we will receive "some" ashes in the mail.”
Concerned animal lovers are encouraged to sign the Save Lennox Petition and immediately contact the following:
Belfast City Council: generalenquiries@belfastcity.gov.uk
Minister of Agriculture, Michelle O'Neil: private.office@dardni.gov.uk
Attorney General, John Larkin: contact@attorneygeneralni.gov.uk
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