XL bully owners in Scotland urged to apply for exemption certificate before deadline

XL bully owners in Scotland can now apply for an exemption certificate so they can continue to legally own their dogs.

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.

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.

Postal applications must be made by July 15 and online applications by midnight on July 31.

Explainer

XL bully ban: What are the rules and when do they come into force?

A wave of restrictions starting this week are designed to see an end to the breed in Scotland.

As of February 23, XL bully dogs must be muzzled and kept on a lead in public.

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.

Victims and Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown said: “These new safeguards are being introduced to protect the public while giving XL Bully owners time to comply with the new rules. I would encourage XL bully owners who wish to keep their dogs from August 1 to apply for an exemption certificate in good time.

“The Scottish Government continues to work with Police Scotland, local authorities, the SSPCA and others to ensure our communities are kept safe.”