PDSA urges to see past the muzzle & breaks down misconceptions ahead of Scotland’s new laws
Last released figures shared by Defra showcased that more than 35,000 dogs have been registered in England and Wales under the XL Bully exemption scheme. Not factoring in the number of dogs living in Scotland who as of 23 February will be required to wear a muzzle, there’s bound to be a surge in dogs outside wearing muzzles.
Muzzles can be divisive, and vet charity PDSA is seeing this first hand.
PDSA Vet, Lynne James, explains there’s many misconceptions around muzzles, which all XL Bully type dogs must now wear when out and about, in order to comply with the Exemption rules. This includes when being transported in a car.
“Experts and animal welfare organisations have campaigned against breed bans for decades, but it’s a big myth that muzzles are bad for dogs.
“As a Vet, and working in the profession, muzzles are no stranger to us. In fact, muzzles can be extremely helpful in our line of work.
“We’re very keen to highlight misconceptions about muzzles. For many, especially now, muzzles are going to be part of their daily routine – grab your dog’s lead, collar and muzzle before heading out for walk.
“Dogs don’t care what they look like – that’s a human thing. Thinking a dog in a muzzle must be ‘dangerous’ just isn’t accurate when muzzles have other uses. Vet professionals see them on a day-to-day basis and frankly, see past the muzzle.
The leading vet charity shared some of the muzzle misconceptions it has heard since the ban was announced:
- Muzzles are prison for pooches
- They are animal cruelty
- Look barbaric
- Muzzles look like a monstrosity
- Horrible contraptions
Why use a muzzle?
“We do understand how muzzles can create the fear of the unknown, especially if you’ve only seen them portrayed on fierce looking guard dogs in films! It’s important to be aware though – muzzles can be used for other positive reasons, and many of the dogs you may see out and about wearing them these days are not to be feared.
“Muzzles can be especially helpful for dogs who like to eat non-food items – owners who have a dog who munches on poo whilst out on walks will understand this better than most!
“They can also create some safety for dogs themselves, if a dog does like to sniff out things to pick up when on walks, a muzzle can help to stop them easily picking up potentially harmful foods or substances.
“Even the friendliest of dogs can find some situations stressful – such as visits to the groomers or the vets, particularly if they’re in pain or have had a previous uncomfortable experience. That’s why we’d recommend all owners include muzzle training with their general dog training, it’s just as handy for your dog to be happy wearing a muzzle as it is for them to know how to ‘sit’ and ‘wait’, should you need them to.”
“It’s also imperative people understand that a muzzle is not ‘animal cruelty’. If a dog is wearing a suitable, comfortably fitting, spacious muzzle, they should be able to fully pant, drink water, and even take treats with ease.
Choosing the right muzzle for your dog
“When choosing the best muzzle for your individual dog, you want to make sure that:
- There’s roughly 1cm space between your dog’s nose and the very end of the muzzle.
- There’s plenty of airflow so your dog doesn’t overheat and can breathe normally.
- Enough room for your dog to comfortably open their mouth to eat and drink.
- Plenty of space for your dog to fully pant.
- Should be made of a durable but comfortable material so it doesn’t break but also doesn’t irritate your dog’s skin.
“It’s always key for pet owners to slowly introduce a muzzle in a positive way, to help their dog become confident and happy wearing it.
“Muzzle training shouldn’t be rushed and should always be done at a dog’s pace, in several short sessions over a few weeks, so they have time to adjust and feel comfortable wearing a muzzle.
“Whilst muzzles have their uses for shorter periods of time, they aren’t meant to be worn as a constant. However, a good walk, whether short or long, that suits the energy levels of your dog is fine to wear a muzzle for.”
Key dates for XL type owners in both England and Wales:
- 31 March 2024 — deadline for your dog to be microchipped (and microchip number provided to Defra by email or post, by this date) if your dog was less than eight weeks old when you applied for a Certificate of Exemption.
- 30 June 2024 — deadline to have your dog neutered (and neutering evidence provided to Defra by email or post, by this date), if your dog was more than one year old on 31 January 2024.
- 31 December 2024 — deadline to have your dog neutered (and neutering evidence provided to Defra by this date), if your dog was less than one year old on 31 January 2024.
Scotland’s ban timeline:
- It has been announced restrictions for XL Bullies will come into place on 23 February 2024 in Scotland.
- From this date, owners of XL Bullies will need to comply with the restrictions: dogs must wear a muzzle and be on a lead when in public. It will also be illegal to sell, or advertise for sale, abandon, give away or breed the dogs in Scotland.
- From 31 July 2024, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully without having an Exemption. We’re still awaiting information for how owners will be able to apply for an Exemption, and when they can do so.
There’s plenty of muzzle training guidance and advice on PDSA’s website, as well as the information the vet charity knows about both the England and Wales ban, and the Scotland ban.