American bully XL: Charity offers cash to neuter dogs before ban

Dave Sutton says he wants to "help the dogs stay in their home" rather than face being euthanised

A charity is offering financial help to get American bully XL dogs neutered ahead of a ban on the breed in England and Wales after a spate of attacks.

From February it will be illegal to own a bully XL - unless the owner has successfully applied for it to be exempt and the animal is neutered.

Almost Home Dog Rescue said charities could not continue to rehome the dogs.

Boss Dave Sutton said he wanted to help owners keep their dogs rather than them being euthanised.

The animal behaviourist said it could cost up to £400 to neuter some of the pets due to their size, plus £92.40 to cover costs to seek an exemption certificate.

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He said training was also being offered to owners as the dogs will have to wear a muzzle in public when the ban comes into force.

"There's things that we can do... because we're not allowed to help them by taking their dogs in," Mr Sutton told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast.

The UK government said it was bringing in the ban "following a concerning rise in attacks and fatalities caused by XL bully dogs".

Can you still keep an American bully XL?

Owners will be required to adhere to UK government rules if they wish to keep an American bully XL from 1 February 2024:

• They must be neutered, but the deadline differs depending on the dog's age

• They must be microchipped

• They must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public

• The owner must over 16 years of age

• Insurance is required against the dog injuring other people, via Dogs Trust membership

• A certificate of exemption is required and must be shown to a police officer or dog warden within five days when requested

The UK government is also offering £200 compensation towards the costs of having a dog euthanised as part of its ban.

But Mr Sutton said he would prefer to see that money put towards having the dog neutered.

His Flintshire-based charity has secured a £5,000 grant which it is using to help local dog owners cover the cost of neutering an American bully XL at a vet's practice in Mold, with owners required to make a £50 contribution.

So far, 82 people have applied for financial help, with 13 completed and 21 booked in for surgery.