Owners of XL Bully dog owners are urged to get to grips with new laws coming into force this month.
After a rise in attacks and deaths nationally caused by XL Bully dogs, new laws are set to come into force from December 31 after the Government added the breed to the banned dogs list under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
The changes will come into force in two stages.
From December 31, it will be against the law to:
- Sell an XL Bully dog
- Abandon an XL Bully dog or let it stray
- Give away an XL Bully dog
- Breed from an XL Bully dog
- Have an XL Bully in public without a lead and muzzle
From February 1, it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully dog in England and Wales unless the dog has a certificate of exemption.
If owners want to keep their XL Bully dog after the ban, they must apply for a certificate of exemption by January 31.
The Government has released guidance for XL Bully owners on the new laws, and what they need to do if they want to keep their dog.
Superintendent Sarah Jones, of Cumbria police, said: “We would encourage owners to review the upcoming legislation and take the relevant steps required to ensure they are in accordance with the laws coming into place over the next few months.
“If you believe your dog fits within the defined characteristics, or are aware your dog is an XL Bully, we urge you to register them on the exemption scheme.
“Our priority is to keep the people of Cumbria safe; any reports will always be fully investigated by specially trained officers.”
