THE Scottish Government has confirmed when a ban on XL bully dogs will come into force in Scotland.
Earlier this month, First Minister Humza Yousaf announced that new safeguards on the breed would enforced in Scotland.
The announcement came after reports of an influx of XL bullies into the country following a ban on the breed in England and Wales.
Both governments took action after a spate of attacks, with some even proving to be fatal.
Speaking in the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, community safety minister Siobhian Brown said new safeguards will come into force from February 23.
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The measures will require the dogs to be muzzled and kept on a lead in public. It will also make it an offence to sell, abandon, give away or breed XL bully dogs in Scotland.
Owners of the breed will then have up to July 31 to apply for an exemption, when enforcement will begin on unlicensed ownership.
Brown said: “It is vital XL bully dog owners get ready for the first stage of legal safeguards that will come into force on February 23. These new rules are intended to prevent risks to public safety and animal welfare and keep our communities safe.
“The second stage of legal safeguards will provide owners seeking an exemption an appropriate length of time to decide how to prepare for the forthcoming change in the law ahead of the July 31 deadline.
“The vast majority of dog owners are responsible animal lovers and we know owning a dog brings with it important responsibilities. I would encourage owners to make themselves aware of the new laws and get ready for them.”
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