XL Bully neglect and abuse have surged by 239% since the breed was banned, with disturbing incidents such as dogs being beheaded and killed in cages coming to light in recent months. The RSPCA has reported a significant rise in cases of neglect, abandonment, and intentional harm towards XL Bullies in the first eight months of this year. These figures have been released by the animal charity to mark the one-year anniversary of the UK Government’s announcement of the ban on the breed, which came into effect on December 31 last year.
The number of reported cases of intentional harm to XL Bullies from January to August 2024 was 103, a stark increase from 39 in the same period in 2023, prior to the ban being announced. Abandoned XL Bullies have seen a staggering 692% rise, with 103 cases reported in 2024 compared to 13 in 2023. Cases of neglect towards the breed have also surged by 239%, with 366 cases reported in 2024 compared to 108 in 2023.
Recent distressing incidents reported to the RSPCA include a decapitated XL Bully found in a shallow grave in Worcestershire, a dead XL Bully with head injuries discovered in a park in Middlesbrough, and a cage containing a deceased XL Bully found in a Birmingham canal. These incidents highlight the concerning trend of harm towards XL Bullies following the ban on the breed.
Dr. Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA’s dog welfare expert, expressed grave concerns over the rise in neglect and abuse towards XL Bullies. She suggested that the ban may have added extra pressure on owners who are already struggling to care for their dogs, potentially leading to deliberate acts of cruelty. Dr. Gaines also voiced distress over the fate of these dogs post-legislation, highlighting that many are being euthanised due to being deemed dangerous based on their appearance.
Following the ban, XL Bullies join four other types of dogs deemed illegal in England and Wales under the Dangerous Dogs Act. The RSPCA, part of the Dog Control Coalition, advocates for a re-evaluation of breed-specific legislation to ensure public safety and animal welfare. Owners of XL Bullies must now adhere to strict conditions, including neutering and muzzling in public places, to comply with the law.
Under the new legislation, owners must provide evidence of neutering to acquire a Certificate of Exemption for their XL Bully. Failure to do so by the specified deadlines will result in the dog no longer being exempt. The RSPCA continues to monitor the welfare of XL Bully-type dogs amidst concerns of deliberate cruelty and the impact of the breed ban on these animals.