In response to Humza Yousaf’s proposed ban on unlicensed XL bullies, public opposition has emerged in Stirling.
As of January 13 more than 1,000 residents have signed a petition to protect the breed from what they perceive as unfair legal scrutiny.
This is a response to the legislation enacted in England and Wales prohibiting XL bullies from the start of February 2024 unless their owners have applied for an exemption.
Politicians decided to take legal action after a recent increase of fatal dog attacks, with many involving XL bullies.
Since the December 31, 2023 laws ban their breeding, selling or rehoming, causing an apparent relocation of the breed to Scotland.
Now, media reports argue that the country has become a “dumping ground” for XL bullies.
Contrary to the concerns however, the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) expresses not observing a notable influx of the breed in their centres since the enforcement of the restrictions in England and Wales.
SSPCA member Mike Flynn thinks that it was the pressure coming from the media forcing the Scottish government to act.
Historical attempts to solve the problem
Implemented in 1991, the Dangerous Dogs Act initially banned four specific breeds, aiming to prevent potential dangers associated with them.
32 years later, the SSPCA argues it has proven ineffective in addressing dog attacks, with incidents increasing in the last years.
In alignment with the Stirling residents, the charity believes the responsibility to lie with the owners not the breed itself.
It opposes breed-specific bans, because more effective solutions are tackling irresponsible ownership and low-welfare breeding practices.
On the long-term, even with the ban the problem will still exist, since individuals can find another type of large dog to cross-breed.
Ultimately leading to an endless cycle of laws banning specific breeds, without actually ensuring sustainable public safety.
Feature Image Credit: David Taffet (Unsplash)
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