RCVS and BVA condemn vet abuse over XL bully ban
“It’s simply unacceptable for these professionals to face additional challenges through abuse, intimidation or threats” – Malcolm Morley.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the British Veterinary Association (BVA) have condemned the abuse of veterinary professionals over the XL bully ban.
The RCVS says it has received reports from veterinary teams in England and Wales who have received abusive messages and harassment, especially over the issue of euthanising XL bully dogs.
Channel 5 News recently reported about one practice that anonymously revealed it had received death threats after saying it would euthanise XL bully dogs if asked.
A ban on rehoming, gifting, exchanging, abandoning, or selling XL bullies came into force on 31 December, meaning that owners of XL bullies must now either apply for a Certificate of Exemption by 31 January or euthanise their dog.
In its statement, the RCVS said: “We understand that there are very strong opinions about the ban, and we respect the rights of individuals to make their own decisions. However, expressing these opinions can never justify or include the harassment and abuse of individual vets, vet nurses or their practice colleagues.
“Veterinary teams around the country are having to navigate rapidly the moral and practical challenges of this new law, while also accounting for different factors such as public safety, the owner’s wishes and animal health and welfare.
“We know the vast majority of owners will appreciate the efforts of their veterinary practice, and would urge all owners to treat their vet teams with courtesy and respect at all times.”
BVA senior vice-president Malcolm Morley said: “We understand that this has been an exceptionally stressful and worrying time for the owners of XL bully-type dogs.
“The Government’s XL bully ban is also placing additional pressure on veterinary teams who are doing their best in very challenging circumstances to help keep responsible XL bully owners with their pets wherever possible. Their commitment extends to supporting clients with any decision-making around euthanasia in individual cases.
“It’s simply unacceptable for these professionals to face additional challenges through abuse, intimidation or threats. Such actions can have a hugely negative impact on individual vets and the wider team.”
The BVA has a toolkit that practices can use to help protect staff from online abuse and the RCVS has produced guidance on the ban. The RCVS advice team is also available to answer questions about the new legislation.
Both organisations have reminded veterinary professionals that they can reach out to Vetlife’s helpline if they need mental health support.
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Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
