Bailey, a three-and-a-half-year-old spaniel, had been brought in earlier this year to assist with prisoner rehabilitation. The dog was originally rehomed from a family unable to keep him, but animal welfare groups and some politicians raised concerns over his placement in a prison without prior training.

On Monday, 22 September, protesters gathered outside the prison demanding Bailey’s removal. In response, NIPS confirmed the dog had been withdrawn after the Police Service of Northern Ireland alerted them to a threat against him, allegedly intended to embarrass the prison governor.

A spokesperson stressed Bailey’s welfare had always been a priority: “He was safe and cared for when he was living at Magilligan, and he is safe and being cared for now.”

Causeway Coast Dog Rescue, which had campaigned for Bailey’s removal, welcomed his withdrawal but pressed for clarity on his long-term future. Spokesperson Tara Cunningham said: “We want confirmation that Bailey has been permanently withdrawn from this project, and we want to understand what safeguards will be reviewed and put in place for dogs in prisons across Northern Ireland.” The charity also released a statement from Bailey’s former owner, who emphasised their concern for his welfare and future care.

The Prison Service defended the use of support dogs, noting they have been part of rehabilitation programmes in Northern Ireland for over 20 years. “Dogs can support people with poor mental health and addiction issues, promote positive behaviour, and reduce stress,” the spokesperson said, criticising what they described as “inaccurate and sensationalist reporting” that had turned the issue into an unnecessary distraction.