Barking council chiefs threatened a couple with legal action after mistaking their pet rabbit for an aggressive dog. Martin and Yvonne Vickers were stunned when they received a letter from East Lindsey District Council complaining about their unruly pet.
Officials even said horse riders' lives were being put at risk due to "excessive barking" coming from their rural home. The couple - who only own a rescue rabbit called Joey - were told they could be slapped with an anti-social behaviour order if they failed to control their pet.
Environmental Protection Officer Sue Pailing wrote: “I am writing to advise you that I have received a complaint regarding the behaviour of your dog. I understand your dog barks quite excessively whilst in the garden, especially when horse riders go by your fence. This is obviously a concern as this could cause a horse to bolt and possibly throw its rider.”
