'We'd rather go to jail than give up our dog' (From Western Telegraph)

'We'd rather go to jail than give up our dog'

A Pembroke Dock couple who lost a legal battle to keep their dog would 'rather go to prison' than give him up.

Ken and Sandra Griggs bought their home on Hill Farm Residential Park, Pembroke Dock, in 1996. The couple checked the Park's pet policy before signing the contract. "We spoke to the park owner, Ken Baxter. He was very accommodating," said Sandra. "We had a boxer with us so naturally we checked the animal situation. He said he'd waive the clause in our contract forbidding pets."

Satisfied, the Griggses signed the contact and moved in. Their dog died and the couple adopted rescue dog Barney, a border collie cross. But they claim Mr Baxter changed his pet policy. "Now he says the waiver was only for the boxer," explained Sandra.

In May, Mr Baxter took the Griggses to court for breaching their plot rental contract. Mr Baxter won and the couple were given until September 30th to remove Barney. They had to pay £6,000 costs.

"The judge told Mr Baxter he could 'exercise his discretion' and let us keep Barney," said Sandra. "But that won't happen. We're just glad our case hasn't affected other pet owners on the park."

"We came here because we wanted a quiet life," said Ken. "When you're a homeowner and you pay ground rent, you expect to be able to live in peace."

Despite the ruling against them, the couple are adamant Barney is staying. "We wouldn't have moved here if we knew we weren't allowed to have a dog," said Sandra. "You don't take on a rescue dog then give it up. We would rather go to prison."

Park owner Ken Baxter said: "The Griggses knew the rules when they came here. "People can bring existing pets, but once they die they cannot be replaced. I never told them they could have a replacement dog. All residents are told the same, otherwise the park would be over-run with dogs.

I am an animal lover and when my dog goes I shall not be replacing her. I comply with the rules as well."

Pictured: Mrs and Mrs Griggs outside their home with Barney. PICTURE: Western Telegraph (WTJH1105V03).