A Devoted Dog Lover's Cross-Country Journey to Save XL Bullies
A passionate enthusiast of XL Bullies took a more than 200-mile journey on New Year's Eve to rehome dogs in Scotland. This effort unfolded just hours before a new law banning the breed took effect in England and Wales.
New Restrictions for XL Bullies
Starting midnight on December 31, American XL Bullies face mandatory muzzling and leash use in public. Additionally, breeding, selling, advertising, gifting, exchanging, abandoning, or allowing these dogs to stray is now illegal. A further ban on the breed without exemption certificates is scheduled for February.
Defying the Ban
Despite opposition from various quarters, including charities and dog owners who argue that breed-based restrictions won't address rising attack rates, Parliament enacted the legislation. Sammy Wilkinson, a resident of Tipton in the Black Country, West Midlands, opposed the ban. He transported around 30 dogs to Scotland for rehoming, sidestepping the new law.
Race Against the Clock
On New Year's Eve, just before the ban, Wilkinson posted a picture on social media with two dogs in his car. He expressed exhaustion but emphasized the urgency to reach the Scottish Border before midnight to save the dogs.
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Nationwide Support
Support for Wilkinson poured in nationwide, with a GoFundMe page raising nearly £9,000. The funds aimed to assist Wilkinson in his mission to save more XL Bullies by covering expenses like exemption certificates and muzzles
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Community Solidarity
Organizer Lisa, in her fundraising appeal, highlighted Wilkinson's continuous efforts, transporting groups of XL Bullies from the Black Country to Scotland. She urged people to support him in the cause to save these dogs.
Financial Assistance for Certificates
In response to the funds raised, Wilkinson announced that the money would be used to help individuals apply for exemption certificates and purchase muzzles for their XL Bullies. He expressed gratitude to contributors, emphasizing their crucial role in supporting his efforts.
Breed Addition to Banned List
XL Bullies have now joined other breeds on the Dangerous Dogs Act's banned list, which includes American pitbull terriers, Japanese tosas, dogo Argentinos, and fila Brasileiros.
Focus on Owners, Licensing, and Training
Critics argue that blaming the breeds is misplaced and call on the government to concentrate on responsible ownership, effective licensing, and proper dog training. Starting February 1, XL Bully owners will require exemption certificates, necessitating applications before January 31.
Government Stance
Environment Secretary Steve Barclay defended the new measures, asserting that they fulfill the Prime Minister's commitment to safeguard the public from dog attacks. He emphasized the legal requirement for muzzling and leashing XL Bullies in public and reiterated the ban on various activities related to the breed.
