Two XL Bullies put down after strict measures introduced in Scotland

Two XL bullies have been put down since the Scottish Government introduced strict new measures for owners.

The legal safeguards introduced from February 23 mean owners must ensure their dogs are muzzled and on a lead when in a public place.

Selling, gifting or exchanging XL Bully dogs is also prohibited.

Stage two will come into force from July 31 and will make it an offence to own an XL Bully without an exemption certificate or having applied for an exemption certificate.

To get an exemption certificate, owners must apply online or by post, pay a £92.40 fee, obtain third party insurance and neuter and microchip their dogs.

Owners who decide not to keep their dogs can apply for £100 to cover cost of euthanasia/veterinary fees and £100 to compensate for the loss of the animal.

So far, two people have applied for compensation from the Scottish Government to cover euthanasia costs and loss.

A Freedom of Information request revealed that £400 is due to be paid out so far.

Both dogs euthanised were male, the Scottish Government confirmed.

Owners have until July 31 to submit their application, after which it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully without a certificate.

Follow STV News on WhatsApp

Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country