MPs debate XL Bully dog ban after petition calls for U-turn
A petition claiming that “bad owners” are to blame for attacks, and not the breed, has more than 600,000 signatures.
From February 1, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully in England and Wales if it is not registered on the “index of exempted dogs”.
A spate of attacks causing serious injury and even death triggered widespread concern about the breed and forced the Govern-ment to take action.
But defenders of the dogs have not given up hope the ban can be overturned.
The group, called Don’t Ban Me-Licence Me, has launched a legal attempt to stop the ban coming into force. Leading charities are also concerned by attempts to ban specific breeds.
READ MORE: Ex-Man Utd ace’s XL Bully attack had owner petrified his dog was going to die
Dr Samantha Gaines from the RSPCA said the charity “strongly opposes breed specific legislation”.
She said: “We are deeply saddened by the recent tragic incidents and agree there is an urgent need to provide protection for the public.
“But banning XL Bullies is not the answer. We want to see the Government commit to the enforcement and improvement of current breeding and dog control regulations, and to promoting responsible dog ownership and training.
“Improving the way dogs are bred, controlled and treated throughout their lives is key to preventing dog bite incidents.”
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The petition to be debated describes XL Bully dogs as “loyal and loving pets” and says it is “well-known that how a dog acts is a reflection of the owner’s actions”.
A Government spokesman said: “We’ve taken quick and decisive action to protect the public from tragic dog attacks by adding the XL Bully type to the list of dogs prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act.”
The debate will be introduced by Conservative MP Nick Fletcher. He is concerned dogs are bought by thugs to intimidate people.
From December 31, XL Bully dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public. And it will be against the law to breed, sell, give away or abandon them.
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