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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 20th February 2024
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Scotland’s XL bully owners urged to prepare for new rules
XL bully owners in Scotland will be required to ensure their dog is muzzled and on a lead when in a public place.
The first stage of safeguards will be introduced Friday.

XL bully owners in Scotland are being reminded to prepare for the deadline of the first stage of an XL bully ban in Scotland.

From Friday, 23 February 2024, XL bully owners in Scotland will be required to ensure their dog is muzzled and on a lead when in a public place.

This first stage of rules will also mean it is illegal to sell, advertise, gift or exchange XL bullies. Furthermore, it will be illegal to let dogs of this type stray.

Dog owners who are convicted of breaching these safeguards could face up to six months imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to £5,000.

This stage of rules is set to be followed by a second stage, effective 1 August 2024, which will make it an offence to own an XL bully without owning or having applied for an exemption certificate. The definition of an XL bully will be the same as is used by the UK government.

The Scottish government is due to release full details on how to apply for an exemption certificate, and the support available, in the coming weeks.

The first stage of legislation has been presented to the Scottish parliament for consideration, ahead of it coming into force on Friday. The Criminal Justice Committee is to take evidence from Siobhain Brown, the minister for victims and community safety, on Wednesday, 21 February.

Ms Brown said: “Whilst dog attacks remain a rare occurrence, where they do occur, they can have devastating consequences which is why safeguards must be introduced. We are doing so whilst ensuring we promote and support responsible ownership, and public safety as effectively as possible.

“The new regulations aim to protect public safety and are being introduced as a consequence of similar XL bully controls brought in by the UK government, which created an unacceptable risk of dogs being moved to Scotland from England and Wales.”

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.