KNOX City Council last week lost its High Court case to have a Staffordshire terrier destroyed under dangerous dog legislation.
Reportedly costing the council $600,000 in court fees, the case involved a dog called Izzy, who has been held by the RSPCA while the court case took place.
Izzy was involved in a bite incident that has been described as serious.
In a media statement, Mayor Peter Lockwood said council was disappointed, but would respect the ruling.
“We defended this case purely on the grounds of public safety,” Cr Lockwood said.
“Council did not initiate this High Court action, but chose to defend its actions in the interests of community safety.
“We are keen to examine the judgment in detail, and will be able to comment further at a later stage.
“But we want to stress to our community that this judgment will not stop council from putting public safety first in future.
“We will do everything in our power to keep any dangerous dogs off our streets.”