25/03/2025
‼️ This post is designed to help people in Council properties understand permission is needed in some areas to keep a dog. This isn’t a trial on what people think should happen when they weren’t present, or breed bias. We are a team of animal lovers and we look at the bigger picture - ANIMAL WELFARE. ‼️
⚠️ IMPORTANT UPDATE & WARNING FOR DOG OWNERS IN COUNCIL HOUSING ⚠️
🐾 Stay of ex*****on (literally) for 2 year old beautiful Buster. 🐾
We recently assisted a local dog owner whose request to keep their dog was initially refused by the council.
Outcome
Following our intervention, the council has granted temporary permission for six months, with compliance monitored throughout. A final inspection will take place at the end of this period.
This case highlights the importance of securing written permission from your landlord or council before getting a pet. In East Ayrshire, even if you’ve had permission for a previous dog, you must reapply if you get another.
What Happened?
The tenants had permission for a Staffie for 10 years, (now at Rainbow Bridge) but had not formally applied for their new dog, a Cane Corso/Bully cross. They were unaware they had to do so and having checked their tenancy agreement we can’t see that this is mentioned.
Unfortunately, on the day he was rehomed, an incident occurred where Buster was involved in an altercation with another dog, after his new owners were told he was friendly towards other dogs, raising public safety concerns. He was in his own garden and managed to squeeze through a small gap in the fence. Having met him he’s a lovely friendly boy who just loves cuddles, but can be reactive to other dogs.
Permission was then refused twice for owners to be allowed to keep Buster.
Steps Taken to Secure Permission
With our support, the owners implemented key safety measures, including:
✅ Repairing the fence where he escaped (thanks Ian).
✅ Keeping him muzzled and on a lead when outside.
✅ Restricting access to visitors by securing him in another room or ensuring he’s muzzled.
✅ Arranging for the council to assess the damaged rear fence to determine responsibility for repairs.
✅ Installing a mail-guard at the front door as an extra precaution.
⚠️ Important Reminder for Pet Owners in Council Housing
‼️ Always get written permission before bringing a pet into a council property and check tenancy agreement rules in your council area.
‼️ Even if you had permission for a previous pet, you must reapply for a new one in East Ayrshire. Again check your local area.
Most rescue centres are already full, and in this case, there was no available space for Buster. Given his breed mix and the circumstances, the chances of him being safely rehomed to a suitable home were slim - and there was a very real risk he could have been euthanised if permission was refused.
Failing to secure permission could put your pet’s life at risk.
We’re pleased to have helped secure a fair outcome in this case and will continue to support responsible pet ownership where we can.
Hi my name is Janie and welcome to Precious Paws Dog Walking we cover Irvine, Girdle Toll, Kilwinning We offer a professional service at all times.
