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XL bully owners reminded of proof of neutering deadline
The deadline applies to XL bullies that were 12 months or older on 31 January 2024.
The first proof of neutering deadline is 26 July.

The Dog Control Coalition has issued a final reminder to owners of XL bullies, as the first proof of neutering deadline approaches.

To be exempt, XL bullies which were 12 months or older on 31 January 2024 were required to be neutered before 30 June 2024. Owners must have sent proof of neutering to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) before 26 July 2024.

The form which Defra will require is a VCN01, which requires a veterinary surgeon’s signature, and so time must be allowed for the paperwork to be completed. If Defra does not receive evidence before the deadline, the dog’s exemption certificate will become invalid and the dog could be seized by the police.

Dog owners who have been unable to get their XL bully neutered should check the UK government guidance, and speak to their local police dog legislation officer.

Owners of dogs which were younger than 12 months on 31 January 2024 will have longer to meet these requirements.

XL bullies which were aged seven months to 12 months must have proof of neutering submitted by 31 December. Those which were under seven months must have proof submitted by 30 June 2025.

The Dog Control Coalition consists of several veterinary groups and animal welfare charities, including the British Veterinary Association, the RSPCA and Dogs Trust. The group has been working to urge the government to reduce the impact of this legislation on responsible dog owners, behaviourally sound dogs, and veterinary teams.

On behalf of the Dog Control Coalition, Sam Gaines, from the RSPCA, said: “We are urging owners of exempted dogs who were 12 months or over by 31 January and have had their dog neutered to ensure they submit proof of this neutering to Defra before the deadline of 26 July. Missing this date means the dog will no longer be exempt.

“We don’t want anyone to have to go through the heartbreak and distress of their dog being seized so if anyone is yet to sort out their paperwork then we’d urge them to speak to their vet quickly.”

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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...
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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.