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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 25th January 2024
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XL bully owners urged to register before next week’s ban
“Please do not risk leaving it to the last minute if you want to keep your dog, you should register it now” – Christine Middlemiss.
Owners who don’t register in time could face an unlimited fine.

The UK’s chief veterinary officer is urging owners of XL bully dogs in England and Wales to register their dog now before the ban on the breed comes into force next week.

From 1 February, it will be illegal to own an XL bully without a Certificate of Exemption. Anyone found breaking the law could face an unlimited fine.

Owners have until noon on Wednesday, 31 January to register their dog for an exemption , if they have not already done so. According to Government figures, more than 30,000 dogs have been registered so far.

Any owner not wishing to register their XL bully is legally obliged to arrange to have the dog euthanised by 31 January, as it is now illegal to sell, abandon, or give away an XL bully. The government is offering compensation to cover the cost.

Since 31 December 2023, owners of XL bully dogs have also had to keep their dog muzzled and on a lead when in public.

Despite criticism of breed-specific legislation from animal welfare and veterinary organisations, the government has pushed ahead with the ban under the Dangerous Dogs Act following a series of dog attacks.

The rules apply to England and Wales. The Scottish government has announced that it will introduce similar legislation, but has yet to set a date for when it will come into force.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s chief veterinary officer, said: “Please do not risk leaving it to the last minute if you want to keep your dog, you should register it now.
 
“If you are unsure if your dog is an XL bully or whether any puppies may grow up to be of this dog type, you should comply with the relevant requirements and restrictions.”

The government has made guidance on how to prepare for the ban available online.

Image © Shutterstock

 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.