Police to get advice on Rottweilers' fate

Police are to seek legal advice from force solicitors before making a final decision on the fate of two Rottweiler dogs who smashed through a fence and attacked a Shropshire family's pet pig.

A rare Kune Kune pig called Rodney, one of two pigs owned by Mark and Emma Tipton, of Park Lane, Madeley, Telford, died from injuries that he suffered after the attack by the animals this month.

The family called for the dogs involved in the attack to be put down.

But a stand-off developed after the owner, a neighbour, said she wanted to keep them.

Now police say they are exploring all avenues in a bid to find a solution to the issue.

Telford police spokesman Chris Ammonds said: "We are going to approach force solicitors to get some advice on what can be done.

"We have spoken extensively to all parties but it may be legal experts have other thoughts on the best way forward.

"We just want to see what options are open to us before we decide on the next steps.

"Obviously the family affected want the dogs removed because they are concerned there will be a repeat.

"But on the other hand the owner wants to keep the dogs so it is a delicate balance, and we are still trying to work out a situation that will be satisfying to all parties.

"Hopefully once we have the legal advice we will be in a better position to do that."

Rodney's companion Gertrude, who was in the pen during the incident but unharmed, had been living in the Tipton's family home along with their 16-month-old son Harrison in case the dogs attacked again.

She has since been temporarily re-homed until a final decision is made on the dogs.

The incident took place at around 5am on January 5, with the couple were awoken by their other neighbours who had heard the fence being smashed.

The couple bought the two pigs five months ago at a cost of "several hundred pounds".

Mrs Tipton said she had always wanted to keep pet pigs and finally persuaded husband to take the plunge.

By Wayne Beese