A MAN is upset and angry that his pet puppy was taken from him following allegations it was out of control and showing aggressive behaviour towards children.

Wayne Smith said nine-month-old border collie Murphy was a playful but harmless dog and blamed his neighbours for over-reacting after it knocked over a boy playing in the street.

Mr Smith’s dog was taken from him by Wychavon District Council but he is now launching a fight to try to get Murphy back.

The 28-year-old, of Shepherds Hill, Droitwich, said: “I’ve got an 11-month-old baby and Murphy’s just loved him in a caring way. The dog has shown no threat.

“I had never known a dog like him, he was fantastic.

“He was a good dog and didn’t have a problem with anybody.”

Mr Smith admitted Murphy ran out of his front gate and knocked a boy over before he could be put the lead on for his walk on Monday, October 27.

He said Murphy just jumped up and licked the boy but neighbours claimed the dog had bitten the youngster. As a result Wychavon District Council sent its dog and neighbourhood wardens to his home to take Murphy off his hands.

Mr Smith said he was left with no choice but to sign the papers handing Murphy over but he said attempts to see photographic evidence of the boy’s injuries have so far been unsuccessful.

It is not the first time Mr Smith has had to hand over a dog after he previously contacted the council to take two springer spanniels off his hands because he was unable to pay veterinary bills and care for them.

Dog warden Pip Singleton said at the time she found the dogs to be suffering from mange and a flea infestation.

She said she had advised Mr Smith not to keep any more dogs in the future.

Mr Smith said he had looked after Murphy much better than the other dogs, providing his pet with full medical care. As a result he said he cannot understand why he has been made to sign the handover papers.

Wychavon District Council confirmed it met Mr Smith but said he voluntarily handed Murphy over.

Dog warden Ms Singleton said: “Dog owners need to be responsible and realise that dogs need a lot of care and affection, and that they need to be kept under control, especially when they are outside.

“Before buying a dog, people should make sure it can be fed well, exercised regularly in a safe way and that they can afford to pay for veterinary treatment should the need arise.”