Animal charity pushes to rehome XL bully before ban

Cali is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier crossbreed who falls under many of the XL bully size guidelines

An animal charity is urgently trying to rehome an XL bully before a ban comes into place.

Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary (OAS) in Stadhampton is one of many organisations across the UK trying to find permanent homes for the animals.

From 31 December, it will be illegal for charities to rehome American XL bully dogs. The ban is in response to a number of deadly attacks by the breed.

The RSPCA said it has already heard reports of dogs being abandoned across the rescue sector. It fears "the problem is going to get worse".

A Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs spokesperson said it had "taken quick and decisive action to protect the public from dog attacks".

Cali, one of OAS's longest standing residents, falls within the XL bully category but has struggled to find a new owner.

The charity has described her as "super affectionate" and "eager to learn".

After December 31, it will be illegal to rehome, sell, buy or transfer ownership of an American XL bully dog to another person, meaning charities will not be able to find them permanent homes.

American bullies have been involved in several high-profile attacks

It is not yet clear whether dogs under charity care will have to be put down.

Dr Samantha Gaines, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said the ban would take a "heavy toll" on both owners and animal charity staff who have grown close to the dogs in their care.

She said veterinary teams faced the "prospect of being asked to put to sleep healthy dogs whose behaviour poses no risk".

Rebecca Taylor, a locum vet in Dorset, told the BBC she "can't justify" putting down "healthy" XL bullys.

She believes dogs of the breed under charity care will be "stuck" there for life or put down after the deadline.

The RSPCA said it has seen an "unprecedented" number of visitors to its website from owners seeking more information and are urging the government to provide more information and support.

A Defra spokesperson said officials were "working closely with the police, veterinary experts and animal welfare groups as we take forward these important measures".