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Scotland opens XL bully exemption applications
To be eligible, XL bullies must be neutered, microchipped, and covered my third party insurance.
Owners must apply before 31 July 2024.

The Scottish government has opened the application process to apply for exemption from its upcoming ban on XL bully type dogs.

The application scheme, which launched on 1 April, will enable owners of the breed to apply for exemption online until 31 July 2024. Postal applications should be made before 15 July 2024.

In order to be eligible for exemption, owners of XL bullies must ensure that their pet is neutered, microchipped and covered by third party insurance. There is also a £92.40 fee.

If a dog is less than eight weeks old, and therefore too young to be microchipped when the owner applies for exemption, the owner will have until 31 October 2024 to submit a microchip number.

The government has published the full details of the application process and owners’ requirements on its website.

Alternatively, should the owner choose not to keep their dog, the government is offering them compensation. Owners can apply for £100 towards veterinary fees for euthanasia and £100 to compensate for losing the pet.

Current legislation, launched on 23 February 2024, means that XL bullies must be muzzled and kept on a lead when in public. It is also illegal to breed, rehome or abandon an XL bully type dog

Following the application process, the full ban for non-exempt XL bully type dogs in Scotland will be enforced from 1 August 2024.

The Scottish government has published a physical conformation standard, which details its official definition of an XL bully. The guide, which is the same as that of England and Wales, was created in consultation with a dangerous dogs working group, local authorities and veterinary surgeons.

The ban mirrors actions taken in England and Wales, where it has been illegal to own an XL bully without an exemption certificate since 1 February 2024.

Siobhian Brown, Scotland’s victims and community safety minister, said: “These new safeguards are being introduced to protect the public while giving XL bully owners time to comply with the new rules. I would encourage XL bully owners who wish to keep their dogs from 1 August to apply for an exemption certificate in good time.

“The Scottish government continues to work with Police Scotland, local authorities, the SSPCA and others to ensure our communities are kept safe.”

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.