'No need' to transport banned American XL Bully dogs from England and Wales to Scotland, Scottish SPCA say

The Scottish SPCA has said that there is “no need” for dog owners in England or Wales to transport American XL Bullies across the border to Scotland, following reports of an influx of the banned breed being transported.

The charity warned that although it was legal to move an XL Bully to Scotland before December 31, since restrictions came into force an owner in England or Wales bringing a dog to Scotland for the purpose of rehoming them would be committing an offence by giving them away.

From New Year’s Eve, new restrictions came into place making it illegal to breed, sell and rehome American XL Bullies in England and Wales.

However, in Scotland the Government is continuing to assess relevant evidence before making a decision on whether to enforce the ban.

American XL Bully owners in England in Wales have until January 31 to register their dogs and comply with the conditions for exemption.

From February 1, the dogs will be made illegal in England and Wales, with exemptions for pets who are registered, neutered, microchipped, and have a muzzle and lead on in public.

A statement from the Scottish SPCA read: “There is no need for a caring owner in England or Wales to move a dog to Scotland, as they have until January 31 to register their dogs and comply with the conditions for exemption.

“We fully support legislation to protect the public, and, as a responsible charity, will comply with whatever decision the Scottish Government makes.

“We believe that anyone found guilty of owning a dangerous dog that has been involved in an attack should be automatically banned for life from owning another dog.

“However, we are opposed to this ban on a specific dog type, which we believe is not the most effective way to protect the public.”

The charity added that it had not seen an increase in the number of XL Bullies surrendered to its shelters since the ban came into force.

The Scottish SPCA said it wants to see an end to irresponsible ownership and low-welfare breeding practices, and is “disappointed” the UK Government hasn’t taken the opportunity to completely overhaul the Dangerous Dogs Act.