American XL bully owners in England and Wales are being urged to send in proof that their pet has been neutered before the deadline at the end of this month.
The UK’s leading animal charities and veterinary organisations are reminding owners of exempted American XL bully types to provide the proof of neutering to the UK Government before the deadline on 26 July 2024.
American XL bullies who were 12 months or older on 31 January 2024 and have been successfully exempted by their owners in England and Wales, had to be neutered by 30 June 2024, and evidence of this must be sent over to Defra by 26 July using an online form.
If Defra does not have evidence by the deadline, the dog’s exemption certificate will be invalid meaning it is no longer valid and the dog could sadly be seized by police.
Evidence of neutering of dogs over the age of seven months (but less than 12 months) – on 31 January 2024 – must be submitted by 31 December 2024; and dogs less than seven months old – on 31 January 2024 – must be submitted by 30 June 2025.
The Dog Control Coalition – made up of RSPCA, Dogs Trust, Battersea, Blue Cross, Hope Rescue, British Veterinary Association, The Kennel Club, Scottish SPCA, USPCA, PDSA and Woodgreen Pets Charity – is urging XL bully owners to avoid the “heartbreak and distress of their dog being seized” by complying with the UK Government rules.
The proof required is an official form (VCN01) which needs to be signed by a vet, so owners need to allow time for the paperwork to be completed.
Speaking on behalf of the Dog Control Coalition, Dr Sam Gaines, from the RSPCA, said: “We all know how worrying the last few months have been for the owners of American XL bully types who have been trying to adhere to all of the rules around exempting their beloved dogs.
“We are urging owners of exempted dogs who were 12 months or over by 31 January and have had their dog neutered to ensure they submit proof of this neutering to Defra before the deadline of 26 July. Missing this date means the dog will no longer be exempt. We don’t want anyone to have to go through the heartbreak and distress of their dog being seized so if anyone is yet to sort out their paperwork then we’d urge them to speak to their vet quickly.”
Behind the scenes, the Dog Control Coalition’s advocacy and vet teams have been working to urge the UK Government to minimise the impact of this legislation on responsible dog owners, behaviourally sound dogs and on veterinary professionals and their teams.
Anyone who hasn’t been able to get their dog neutered within the deadline should check the UK Government guidance and seek advice on what to do next. They should also speak to their local police dog legislation officer by contacting their local force.
