Over 87,000 people have now signed an online petition and over £12,000 has been raised to help save an east Belfast dog from destruction.
Hank, which according to its owner is a Staffie-Labrador cross, was seized by Belfast City Council officials and police officers last Thursday after it had been reported to authorities that he was a pitbull, a breed banned in Northern Ireland.
In the wake of the dog being taken away owner Leonard Collins has set up an online petition to get him back.
The Change.org page has already attracted over 87,000 signatures, attracting supporters, including world champion boxer Carl Frampton, while the Facebook page Save Hank has attracted over 43,000 likes
The petition page reads: "On the 14th July 2016, Hank was taken from my home by eight police officers and four dog wardens. He has been condemned to die because he looks like a pitbull. Our only legal recourse is to fight this in the courts. We will do anything to save Hank, he is a much loved part of our family. He is more than a pet. The best chance at returning Hank to his home is to prove that he is not dangerous, this is costly due to the need for professional opinion. This petition is to raise awareness of Hank and other dogs like him that facing death due to Breed Specific Legislation (BSL)."
A fundraising page has also been set up in the hope of raising £15,000 to cover possible legal costs. The campaign has already attracted over £12,000 in donations
Belfast City Council has said the matter may yet be referred to the courts.
"The dog has been taken in for assessment,” the council said.
"A determination is made based on the animal's physical characteristics and temperament.
"If the dog is deemed to be of a banned breed, and judged to present a danger to the public, the matter is referred to the courts to decide whether a destruction order should be issued."
The process for testing Hank could take several months, with a specialist having to carry out the examinations.
The online petition is available to sign at www.change.org/p/belfast-save-hank , while the fundraising page can be accessed by visiting crowdfunding.justgiving.com/pleasesavehank.
