They’ve never ever done anything wrong,” one woman says of her three XL bully dogs. “We’ve owned bull breeds for 10 years and they’ve never put a foot wrong, we’ve never had altercations in public, we have had nothing but a positive experience.”
Heather Halls and her husband Chris have spent the past few weeks in disbelief after Rishi Sunak announced in September that American XL bully dogs would be banned in the UK following a spate of high-profile attacks and fatalities.
Not only do three of their family dogs fall into this category, but Chris is a professional dog trainer specialising in bulldog breeds, meaning that their entire livelihood is now at stake. They also compete in the Protection Sports Association, by which two of their XL bullies have been awarded titles.
“Essentially, our whole world and what we’ve worked towards in the last few years is about to get flipped on its head,” says Heather.
The couple have now joined forces with other XL bully owners to launch an official campaign to challenge the government’s stance, with more than £86,000 raised in a matter of days to support legal action.
Campaigners from Don’t Ban Me – Licence Me are asking the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to rethink their plans and are fundraising for a judicial review.
Poor breeding to blame for XL bullies attacking people, says dog trainer
With the support of their barrister John Cooper KC, they sent a warning of their intention to launch legal action to the environment secretary Therese Coffey last Thursday, as they hope to scrap the planned ban in favour of tightened laws around breeding and ownership.
Under new legislation, it will be illegal to sell, breed or abandon an XL bully-type dog from 31 December, while it will be an offence to own one from 1 February 2024 unless it is registered to the government’s database, the Index of Exempted Dogs.
Once their animal is registered, owners will have to abide by strict regulations, which include keeping their dogs muzzled and on a lead at all times in public, having them neutered and microchipped, and having to carry a certificate of exemption at all times to show police officers or council dog wardens.
Alongside descriptions of head size and physical features, the government has defined an American XL bully as an adult male from 20in in height, or an adult female from 19in. However, given that XL bullies have never been defined as an official breed, this has confused owners of cross-breeds such as mastiffs and mongrels.
The decision to ban the breed came after deaths relating to XL bully attacks, including those of 10-year-old Jack Lis and 17-month-old Bella-Rae Birch. Two people were injured in recent days in Mansfield by a suspected XL bully, while one report holds the breed responsible for nearly 50 per cent of all dog attacks in the UK.
Charities with the banned breed in their care will now receive £100 compensation for euthanising an XL bully, while owners will get £200 compensation if a vet euthanises their dog.
Speaking to The Independent, Sophie Coulthard, an organiser of the campaign group, says: “The problem with this knee-jerk reaction is that it won’t stop dog attacks. We need to focus on licensing and educating owners, with compulsory training and tougher punishments to prevent people from impulse-buying dogs.”
Sophie has owned her XL bully, Billy, for the last year, and has developed a following on TikTok by posting educational videos of his training as well as details of the proposed ban.
“One thing we’ve found is that people are really misinformed on the full impact of the ban,” she says. “What the government is asking me to do is look at their guidelines and commit him to a life on the muzzle, not go on holidays with him, have him muzzled in the car.
“There’d be no more playing with a toy in the park, anyone in social housing could lose their housing or their dog, you can no longer hire private fields to take dogs off the lead. It is really reducing the quality of life for these dogs.”
The group is arguing for the UK to take a similar approach to Canada’s Calgary model, an educational, licensing and stronger enforcement programme that has successfully reduced the number of dog bites by 70 per cent.
“I understand there’s been attacks, and I fully sympathise with anyone who has been a victim, because it’s horrific,” Heather says. “Dog ownership is a complete and utter mess, and people got these dogs in lockdown and haven’t socialised them or trained them. My son was bitten by a dachshund that shot out of a front door, so it’s not just XL bullies.
“Licensing is the right way forward. It’s proven to work in other countries and you can’t ignore the evidence that it works.”
Since the announcement, her five-year-old son panics each time he hears a siren, out of fear that police officers will arrive to take his dogs away. “Our dogs are our family pets,” says Heather. “I’ll do anything to keep my dogs safe. I will fight with my last breath.”
“Feeling the Birthday Vibes: Hoping for Some Love and Warm Wishes”
It’s a significant day for me today as it marks my birthday, and I’m hoping to receive affection and warm wishes from everyone. Birthdays are not only an opportunity to celebrate life but also an occasion to share love with our friends and family.
In honor of this special day, I came across an image that touched my heart and evoked strong emotions within me. The picture featured a dog with an innocent and playful expression, standing proudly beside a beautifully decorated birthday cake. Witnessing this sight was incredibly heartwarming.
It was evident that the dog understood the importance of the moment, manifesting pure elation and eagerness. Its eyes sparkled with anticipation, as if anticipating the magical moment when everyone would come together to sing “Happy Birthday.”
As one looks at the image, a surge of emotions is bound to arise within. It reminds us of the deep bond that exists between humans and animals. The dog’s presence in the festivities showcases the fundamental need for love, companionship, and the desire to be a part of something special.
The image has touched the hearts of people from all walks of life, resonating with them on an emotional level. As it circulates on social media platforms, the comment section overflows with an outpouring of affection and well-wishes. People express their love not only for the dog but also for the sentiment conveyed through the image.
One individual says, “This picture is a testament to the unwavering love that animals bring into our lives. Happy Birthday! May your day be filled with love and joy, just like this adorable dog.” Another person comments, “I’m moved to tears. It’s astonishing how something as uncomplicated as a dog and a birthday cake can stir such profound emotions in our hearts. Happy Birthday, dear friend! May your day be as magical as this image.”
This image serves as a poignant reminder of the power of love, the significance of connections, and the capability of simple gestures to evoke profound emotions. It symbolizes the universal desire for happiness and the hope that each birthday brings, another year filled with love, growth, and precious memories.
Today is my birthday, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the love and kindness that is showered upon me. The picture of a dog enjoying a birthday cake perfectly captures the spirit of the love and affection that I wish to share and receive on this occasion. Let us all cherish the happiness, warmth, and enchantment that birthdays bring and hold them dear in our hearts.
The elderly canine was beaming with delight during this significant moment. Its loyal companionship had lasted for more than fifteen years, and now, it was being celebrated in a unique way by its owner. The dog had been an unwavering presence in its owner’s life, providing comfort, loyalty, and unconditional love throughout the years. As the birthday celebrations commenced, the dog’s tail wagged uncontrollably, conveying its euphoria and enthusiasm. It was elated to know that this party was in honor of its existence.
The owner had invited close acquaintances and family members who had been witness to the unbreakable relationship between the dog and its human. Amidst the festivities, the aroma of savory delights filled the air, tempting both guests and the canine with their mouth-watering scent. The owner ensured that the spread included delectable treats that satisfied both human and canine taste buds.
Plates were laden with appetizing snacks, while a special cake designed specifically for dogs took center stage, decorated with canine treats and a solitary candle. This momentous occasion was one that the aging dog would never forget.
Amidst cheers and applause, the moment to cut the cake finally arrived. The furry friend, surrounded by loved ones, basked in the warmth of the affection showered upon it. With a gentle hand guiding its paw, it delicately touched the knife, symbolizing its participation in this memorable moment. The cake was then divided and shared, reflecting the bond between the dog and its human.
Throughout the day, the dog reveled in the attention and affection bestowed upon it. It felt content, knowing that its presence had touched the lives of those around it, just as they had profoundly impacted its own. Belly rubs, cuddles, and heartfelt words of appreciation poured in, making every moment precious.
The celebration continued into the evening, with games and playful activities that brought laughter and joy to everyone present. Despite its old age, the dog wholeheartedly engaged in the festivities, savoring every precious moment. Time seemed to stand still, and for a brief period, the dog felt the weight of the years lift off its shoulders, replaced by an overwhelming sense of happiness and belonging.
As the party drew to a close, the dog curled up at its owner’s feet, feeling a profound sense of fulfillment and love. Its eyes glistened with tears of sheer happiness, a testament to the depth of its emotions. The celebration marked a 15-year journey filled with unbreakable bonds, unwavering loyalty, and unconditional love.
In the end, it wasn’t just a birthday party; it was a commemoration of the remarkable journey shared by a dog and its owner. It was a tribute to the joy that a beloved pet brings into our lives, and for this aging dog, it was a reminder that its presence mattered.
As darkness enveloped the surroundings, the dog dozed off, feeling cocooned in adoration and appreciation. In its slumber, it relived the happenings of the day, the chuckles, and the delightful instants shared with loved ones. A grin broke across its muzzle, aware that it had lived through an extraordinary and memorable occasion – a birthday celebration that epitomized years of treasured moments.
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