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XL bully neutering deadline extended
The Scottish government has also extended its deadline.
The BVA has welcomed the extension.

The UK government has extended the deadline for neutering XL bully dogs under seven months old, after concerns were raised by the veterinary sector.

Under the new deadline, which applies to England and Wales, XL bully dogs that were younger than seven months old on 31 January 2024 will have to be neutered by 30 June 2025. This has extended the previous deadline by six months.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) had been asking for an extension since the original neutering deadline was announced last year.

The organisation was concerned that neutering a dog from a large breed before they were 18 months old could lead to health and welfare problems. It was also worried about the strain that the early deadline would put on veterinary capacity.

Following discussions, the Scottish government extended its own neutering deadline earlier in March by six months.

As part of legislation brought in by the UK government under the Dangerous Dogs Act, an XL bully needs to be neutered to qualify for a certificate of exemption.

It has been illegal to own the breed without an exemption certificate in England and Wales since 1 February 2024. The Scottish government has brought in a similar ban, which will begin on 31 July 2024.

BVA president Anna Judson said: “We’re pleased that the government has listened to the veterinary profession’s concerns and has taken on board our calls to extend the neutering age for XL bullies in England and Wales to the recommended 18 months instead of one year.

“Given increasing evidence that neutering large breeds of dogs early can lead to developmental orthopaedic problems, alongside other medical conditions, this move strikes the right balance between ensuring the dogs’ health and preventing breeding. It will also help ease the likely pressure on already overstretched vet teams.”

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.