Petition: Bad owners are to blame not the breed – don’t ban the XL bully
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/643611
The UK government has announced that the American XL Bully will be banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act. This means that it will be illegal to own, breed, or sell XL Bullies in the UK. The ban is expected to come into force by the end of 2023.
Once the ban is in place, the police and local council dog wardens will have the power to seize XL Bullies, even if they have not been acting dangerously. The owners of seized dogs may be able to apply to a court for an exemption.
The government has said that there will be an amnesty before the ban comes into force, during which time owners of existing XL Bullies will be able to register their dogs with the authorities. This will allow the authorities to track the number of XL Bullies in the UK and to make sure that they are properly cared for.
After the ban comes into force, it will still be legal to own, breed, and sell XL Bullies in other countries. However, it will be illegal to import XL Bullies into the UK.
The ban on XL Bullies has been welcomed by some animal welfare groups, who argue that the breed is inherently dangerous and that it is necessary to protect the public. However, other groups have criticized the ban, arguing that it is unfair to punish all XL Bullies for the actions of a few.
It is too early to say what the long-term impact of the ban on XL Bullies will be. However, it is likely to lead to a decrease in the number of XL Bullies in the UK over time. It is also likely to make it more difficult for people to obtain XL Bullies, as they will no longer be able to be bred or sold legally in the UK.
Information on https://www.gov.uk/control-dog-public/banned-dogs tates:
If your dog is put on the Index of Exempt Dogs
If your dog is banned but the court thinks it’s not a danger to the public, it may put it on the Index of Exempt dogs and let you keep it.
You’ll be given a Certificate of Exemption. This is valid for the life of the dog.
Your dogs must be:
- neutered
- microchipped
- kept on a lead and muzzled at all times when in public
- kept in a secure place so it cannot escape
As the owner, you must:
- take out insurance against your dog injuring other people
- be aged over 16
- show the Certificate of Exemption when asked by a police officer or council dog warden, either at the time or within 5 days
- let the Index of Exempt Dogs know if you change address, or your dog dies
Third Party Liability Insurance for XL Bully Dogs is available with Dog’s Trust
https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/at-home/american-bully-xl