A Hobart man has won a Supreme Court bid to save his American bulldog from being put down, after a judge ruled the city council failed to give him a fair go.
Justice Stephen Estcourt set aside the Hobart City Council’s order to destroy the dog, named Piper, in a judgment delivered on May 1.
Piper was seized in November 2025 after attacking other dogs in two Hobart parks.
CCTV footage captured the unprovoked attacks at Soundy’s Park and Mather’s Lane, with one incident leaving a Labrador with a puncture wound.
Owner Craig Thurstans was also filmed punching and kicking Piper during the incidents. He has since expressed remorse.
The council’s animal management compliance officer ordered Piper be destroyed under the Dog Control Act after considering submissions from Thurstans and his supporters.
Thurstans proposed housing Piper at a fenced property in Clarendon Vale, along with muzzling requirements and behavioural training.
But the council deemed the property unsuitable because it was owned by Homes Tasmania, which does not allow dangerous dogs.
Justice Estcourt found the council should have gone a step further before ordering the dog’s death.
“… Natural justice required that when the address … proved unsuitable, the respondent should have gone one step further and provided the applicant with an opportunity to provide another address where Piper could be lawfully and safely housed,” he said.
The judge described Piper as “a sentient being, facing euthanasia” and said secure private housing was “an obvious alternative to a death sentence”.
Justice Estcourt commended the council for the inquiries it had made, particularly with the Clarence City Council.
But he said declaring Piper a dangerous dog may have been a more humane option, adding the officer would not wish to see Piper destroyed if a “more humane alternative” existed.
The matter has been sent back to the council for reconsideration.
