With the start of the New Year also being the introduction of the XL Bully ban in England and Wales, the countdown is now officially on for owners to comply with the new legislation before time runs out.
In the latest news from the Scottish Government, there are now plans for an XL Bully ban to come into force in Scotland as well, with little known detail just yet, but it was shared the ban will mirror the measures that have been introduced in England and Wales.
PDSA Vet Lynne James shares a breakdown of the timeline impacting owners in England and Wales, plus some key information, as well as some of the charity’s concerns.
Timeline of the ban
“The timeline of the ban is one of the most important factors, especially now, as owners in England and Wales do not have very long to ensure they comply with the new rules soon to come into force.”
- Right now, all XL Bully type dogs must be wearing a muzzle and kept on a lead when in public. It is also now illegal to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, gift, rehome, abandon or allow an XL Bully type dog to stray.
- Owners can no longer apply for a Certificate of Exemption by email or by post (deadline was 15 Jan) – the only way to now apply is through the government website.
- The deadline to apply for an Exemption through the Government website is by midday on 31 January.
- From 1 February, XL Bully type dogs must have a Certificate of Exemption.
- By 30 June 2024, all XL Bully type dogs over 1 year old on 31 January 2024 must be neutered.
- By 31 December 2024, all XL Bully dogs under 1 year old on 31 January 2024, must be neutered.
What we know
“Although there is now a ban in England and Wales, the current population of XL Bully type dogs is going to be around for years to come, and this will likely be the same in Scotland too. With the average lifespan being around 10-12 years, the ban does not mean these dogs will suddenly disappear.
“The government has determined the physical characteristics which will decide if a dog fits the ‘breed type’ of the XL Bully. They have shared DNA or simply what owners were told their dog was when they were bought or rehomed will not count as evidence of breed.
“However, they have confirmed that other established breeds, such as those recognised by the UK Kennel Club, who may meet some of the characteristics of the XL Bully breed type, are not covered by the ban.
“The Government has also stated that owners are responsible for determining themselves if their dog is classified as an XL Bully type or not, and whether that means they should apply for an Exemption.
“We also know, regardless of personal thoughts about the ban, all owners of dogs deemed to fit the XL Bully type will now need to follow the guidance. Owners found not complying with the legislation may face a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they are found to be in possession of an XL Bully type without a Certificate of Exemption, and their dog could be seized, or in some cases, dogs may even be put to sleep by the authorities.
“We’re aware this a worrying time for many, in England, Wales and now Scotland, and we maintain our position that Breed Specific Legislation is not the right course of action to protect the public.
PDSA’s concerns
“In addition to our concerns about this rushed through legislation, the timeline of the ban in England and Wales is adding unnecessary pressure on owners who are already in a stressful situation.
“We know recent years have been financially tough for many, with PDSA seeing an increase in demand for our low-cost services. Finding the funds in a short space of time to cover the cost of an Exemption, as well as what is needed to comply, including neutering, may not be easy for many, and may have long-term impacts. With no help to cover these costs announced from the Government, it leaves animal charities like PDSA left to pick up the pieces.
“We’re also concerned that the potential stigma of owning a ‘banned breed’ could sadly lead to owners feeling unable to walk or socialise their dogs. This will no doubt have a severe negative impact upon the welfare of these dogs, whose health and welfare must remain an upmost priority.
“We know the announcement in Scotland may not be the news many want to hear, but we will continue to support owners across England, Wales and Scotland however we can. PDSA’s main focus remains supporting owners with our aim being to keep people and pets together.”
As the weeks go by, and the deadlines get closer in England and Wales, and more information is shared about the upcoming ban in Scotland, PDSA will continue to update their website to ensure all of the information is up to date and relevant for owners.
Head to PDSA’s website to find out more: pdsa.org.uk/XLbully
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