The Brickleigh Castle Dog Is in Danger

Just like the fictional Downton Abbey, Castle Brickleigh in Devon, a "fortified manor house that stands on the banks of the River Exe," hosts a lovable labrador to greet visitors as they enter the magnificent 11-century castle. (Rest in peace, Isis!) But 10-year-old Doubleé's life might be at risk! Devon & Cornwall Police want him "controlled or put down" under section 2 of the Dogs Act 1871, a threat that terrifies Sarah and Robert Hay, owners of both Doubleé and Castle Brickleigh. Evidently, modern-day castle life is not without its drama.

It all started last May when the dog "excitedly jumped up and hit" a 15-year-old waiter during a wedding reception. (The Hays rent out both the Great Hall and the Victorian style garden pagoda on the lawn for lavish weddings.) Mr. Hay believes Doubleé was excited at the prospect of food as the lad was exiting the kitchen. The young man received a rabies shot as a precaution, even though Robert Hay claims he was not actually bitten. The Mid Devon Gazette reports that Doubleé may also be forced to wear a muzzle.

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Sarah Hay with Doubleé[/caption]

Castle owners--They're just like us! Their dogs cause trouble and they get called to court!

For those interested in celebrating their special day at Brickleigh, check out the Brickleigh Castle website. Mr. and Mrs. Hay say about 300 weddings have taken place there in the dozen years they've owned they place. They also host corporate events.

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Yes, Brickleigh Castle can also be rented for corporate events.[/caption]

Update: The Daily Mail also reports that Doubleé was also once blamed for the death of rams in the village, a charge Mrs. Hays dismissed as mistaken identity. Is the case against Doubleé growing stronger? Could this be part of a pattern? A hearing is set at Exeter Magistrates Court for January 27.

Update: Doubleé lives! His life, the Mid Devon Gazette reports, has been spared:

Doubleé now must wear a muzzle whenever he is off of a lead and must be under the care of someone aged 18 or over.

Mr Hay was told he must keep Doubleé in a secure place.

The presiding magistrate said: "He will not be let to run around in public places, including the grounds of Bickleigh Castle and areas which are readily accessible to the public."

Mr Hay was also ordered to pay £300 in costs to Devon & Cornwall Police.

Update #2: The mother of the boy received so much flak on social media about all this that she posted a pic to defend herself. Whoa, Doubleé! I thought you didn't even bite him!

Source: The Daily Mail/The Mid Devon Gazette