UPDATE: American pit bull dog found at Laois train station

No owner has so far come forward to claim a stray dog on the restricted breeds list that was found wandering at Portlaoise train station.

The chocolate brown bulldog has been in the care of Laois Dog Pound since Friday, January  20.

It is described as an 'American pit bull terrier / Bully M' .

The dog was first noticed at the train station at 6am on Friday morning.

His ears have been cut in the past, since healed, a practice that is illegal in Ireland.

His owner will have to prove ownership and supply a licence within five working days, to claim the dog. Otherwise the dog will be available for rehoming.

Dog Warden Tristan Blundell declined to give information on whether the dog was microchipped, to ensure that the correct owner comes forward.

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“He is a friendly dog. He is in fine condition. Every dog has the potential to be dangerous. Restricted breeds are mostly bigger dogs with a larger bite force,” he said.

Mr Blundell said that dogs are not put down or euthanized at Laois Dog Pound, unless this is court ordered following worrying of livestock, or ordered by the owner.

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Some ten dogs are currently detained and waiting for new homes at the pound, one as long as five months.

Irish law categorises certain dog breeds and their crosses as restricted. Owners must follow several rules to own a restricted dog breed in Ireland. The list includes the American Pit Bull.

To enquire about rehoming a dog in the pound, email laoisdogpoundrehoming@gmail.com