Dotty cleared of corgi killing
Dotty the English bull terrier was formally cleared by Buckingham Palace today of ferociously attacking one of the Queen's cherished corgis.
The royal household named the true culprit as Florence, another of the Princess Royal's dogs.
Dotty was vilified by the nation for mauling the ill-fated Pharos, one of the Queen's oldest and best-loved corgis, which had to be put down.
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: "Dotty certainly is innocent. Florence was the one responsible.
"It only just came to light yesterday. Dotty was believed to be there but not responsible for the fracas.
"It's one of those things that happens to dogs. They have fights.
"Obviously the Queen is still upset at losing one of the dogs, but they are dog owners and they understand how things work."
On whether English bull terrier Florence would receive a royal pardon or face being put down, the spokesman said: "It is a private matter for the Queen and the Princess Royal to decide".
It is believed to be Florence's first offence, making it unlikely she would face a death sentence.
The RSPCA had reportedly called for Dotty to be put down as the incident was believed to be the second time the dog had attacked.
Anne became the first member of the Royal Family to get a criminal record when she was fined £500 for letting the pet run out of control in November last year.
Dotty attacked two children in Windsor Great Park, Berkshire.
Anne was ordered to ensure that Dotty underwent behavioural training.
Following today's revelation, a RSPCA spokeswoman refused to comment on the fate of the two animals.
"Putting a dog down needs to be considered very carefully. All the facts need to be looked at," she said.
Florence's crime took place last week as the Royal Family gathered at Sandringham in Norfolk.
Anne arrived with her dogs and as the door was opened by a servant, the Queen's corgi raced down to greet her and was attacked by Florence.
It is thought the mistake over her identity was made because the dogs look so alike.
