The managing director of a leading pet supermarket across the South Coast has said the new XL Bully legislation is “simply unfair” and another knee jerk response by the Government. 

Deborah Burrows of Healthy Pet Store in Totton said she was very saddened to hear that another breed is being unfairly punished under the Dangerous Dogs Act. The Government has also offered £200 in ‘compensation’ to dog guardians for euthanasia.  

The legislation outlines that from 31 December 2023, breeding, selling, advertising, rehoming, abandoning and allowing an American XL Bully dog to stray will be illegal. 

From 1st February 2024, it will become illegal to own an American XL Bully dog if they are not registered on the Index of Exempted Dogs. 

There has already been confusion surrounding the potential misunderstanding of the breed classifications. Concerns have been raised from police forces, charities and vets who will be responsible for enforcing the law and euthanizing healthy animals. 

Deborah said: “I am so sad for responsible caregivers of these dogs who have all been tarnished with the same brush. Despite renowned behaviourists advising the Government about this breed, the UK has added another type of dog to the Dangerous Dogs list. 

“This is a result of the Government failing to enforce legislation surrounding breeding animals and responsible pet ownership. 

“A dog’s life is priceless. They are part of a family and it is appalling that anyone could think £200 could justify putting an animal to sleep. It’s deeply unfair this breed has been labelled as ‘dangerous’.

“Behaviourists are saying that unethical breeding and training practices are likely to be factors involved in some dogs’ behaviours.

“At Healthy Pet Store, we stand strongly against breed-specific legislation and we want to assure customers that we welcome all dogs in our store, regardless of their type, breed or size”, Deborah concluded.