THREE people who appeared in court after police applied for an order to force them to keep their dog under control have given their pet to an animal charity.

Martin Robinson, Leanne Robinson and Antoinette Patton, of Gunnell Close, Woodside, appeared at Croydon Magistrates' Court last Friday.

They were brought before magistrates after police applied for an order under the Dogs Act 1871 following complaints their pet was out of control.

Woodside Safer Neighbourhood Team was granted a warrant to seize the dog in May after it was suspected of attacking another animal in South Norwood Country Park.

But after visiting the owners, officers decided to give them one last chance and allowed the dog to stay at the home.

Instead, Sergeant Steve Clancey applied for an order to force the trio to keep their pet under control or have it destroyed.

If granted, the order would have ensured the owners had to adhere to specific rules, which may have included keeping the dog on a lead in public spaces.

But at the hearing, it was revealed the owners had given their dog to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to see if it was suitable to be retrained and then given a new home.

Sgt Clancey hopes the outcome will make residents feel safer.

He added: "The issue of controlling dogs in public places is a ward priority for Woodside.

"We are working with our colleagues in the dog warden and mobile enforcement units of Croydon Council to deal with offenders and promote responsible dog ownership."