RSPCA reports increase in XL bully neglect cases
The RSPCA is concerned restrictions could affect dogs' welfare.
The RSPCA has reported an increase in XL bully neglect cases, following a ban on the type in England and Wales six months ago.
The animal rescue charity reported a 230 per cent increase in neglect cases involving XL bully type dogs. This is an increase from 164 cases in 2023 to 542 cases in the first six months of 2024.
It also says that the number of reports of intentional harm to XL bully type dogs had gone up by 96 per cent, while there had been a 514 per cent increase in XL bullies being left unattended.
The statistics follow a ban on XL bully type dogs that has been enforced in England and Wales since February. The ban means that XL bully type dogs with exemption certificates must be kept, and these dogs must be on a lead and muzzled when in public.
As a member of the Dog Control Coalition, the RSPCA has campaigned against the Dangerous Dogs Act, which it says bans dogs based on type and appearance. The charity believes that, although public safety is a priority, the current approach is failing to protect the public while also compromising animal welfare.
The RSPCA says that, despite tens of thousands of XL bully type dogs being exempted by their owners, it is still seeing more reports of neglect and intentional harm against XL bullies.
Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA's dog welfare expert, said: “We fear that this is a direct result of the recent UK government ban on this type of dog. This could be a result of the extra pressures this ban has placed on desperate owners who may already be struggling to care for their dogs during this cost of living crisis.
“But even worse, these could be deliberate acts of cruelty towards dogs who have become increasingly demonised in recent months.”
The charity has seen XL bully fatalities due to deliberate cruelty against them, but is also concerned that the restrictions placed on exempt dogs could be affecting their welfare. As part of the law, RSPCA legally cannot rehome XL bullies that come into its care.
A Defra spokesperson said: “The ban on XL bullies is an important measure to protect public safety, and we expect all XL bully owners to comply with the strict conditions. We continue to work with the police, local authorities and animal welfare groups to prevent dog attacks by encouraging responsible dog ownership across all breeds of dog.
“Any abuse of animals is not tolerated and should be reported to the RSPCA.”
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