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Scotland announces XL bully ban dates
The new laws in Scotland will mirror those already in force in England and Wales.
Owners will need an exemption certificate by 31 July.

The Scottish government has announced the dates when new XL bully legislation will come into force.

Subject to parliamentary approval, it will be illegal to sell, gift, or exchange an XL bully dog in Scotland from 23 February 2024. XL bullies will also need to wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead when in a public place.

From 31 July 2024, it will be against the law to own an XL bully without an exemption certificate.

Details of how to apply for a certificate will be announced in the coming weeks alongside support measures. The Scottish government has said that it will use the same definition of an XL bully as the one used by the UK government in England and Wales.

Siobhian Brown, minister for victims and community safety, said: “It is vital XL bully dog owners get ready for the first stage of legal safeguards that will come into force on 23 February. These new rules are intended to prevent risks to public safety and animal welfare and keep our communities safe.

“The second stage of legal safeguards will provide owners seeking an exemption an appropriate length of time to decide how to prepare for the forthcoming change in the law ahead of the 31 July deadline.

“The vast majority of dog owners are responsible animal lovers and we know owning a dog brings with it important responsibilities. I would encourage owners to make themselves aware of the new laws and get ready for them.”

The decision by the Scottish government to follow the UK government in legislating against XL bully dogs has been criticised by animal welfare organisations.

Scottish SPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: “We recognise that the Scottish government feel that they have had little choice in implementing these ‘safeguards’, but we are concerned that these regulations are being rushed through. We are reviewing next steps when it comes to XL bullies currently in our care.

“We fully support legislation to protect the public, and we are deeply concerned about the rise in dog control related incidents, but the Scottish SPCA has long opposed restrictions that focus specifically on certain types of dogs.”

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.