Preparing for the ban on XL Bully Dogs
Lichfield District Council is reminding the owners of XL Bully dogs that it is now against the law to breed, rehome, sell or give away an XL Bully dog, or to allow an XL Bully dog to stray, or to be in a public place without a lead and muzzle.
The ban then starts on 1 February 2024. It will then be against the law to own an XL Bully dog unless it has a Certificate of Exemption.
A Certificate of Exemption can be applied for online at gov.uk. The government has also made arrangements for owners who might instead decide to have their XL Bully put to sleep. This can be done at any registered veterinary practice before 31 January 2024 and the owner can claim £200 in compensation from the government.
Cabinet Member Councillor Alex Farrell said:
“Following a concerning rise in attacks and fatalities caused by XL Bully dogs nationally, and the tragic death of a man in Stonnall last September which was attributed to this type of dog, the government has included XL Bully dogs on the list of those banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
“Whilst keeping local people safe is our priority, we know that this is a very sad time for the dogs and their owners. Our animal welfare inspectors and dog wardens hope that owners will be responsible and follow the law.”