Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 27th November 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Time “running out” to apply for XL bully exemption in NI
“Owners without a certificate risk losing their pet” – Brian Dooher.
Exemption certificates must be applied for by 31 December. 

Owners of XL bully dogs in Northern Ireland have been reminded they need to apply for an exemption certificate by 31 December 2024 if they wish to keep their dog.

To be eligible for an exemption certificate, dogs must be microchipped, licensed, and have third-party public liability insurance. Exempted dogs also need to be neutered, although evidence of neutering can be submitted up until 30 June 2025 if the dog is younger than 18 months on 31 December 2024.

Since the 5 July, XL bully owners in Northern Ireland have had to muzzle their dogs and keep them on a lead in public places. It is also illegal to sell, gift, exchange, or breed from an XL bully type dog.

Those who breach the restrictions on the breed could face up to six months in prison and/or a fine of up to £5,000.

The same definition of an XL bully is being used in Northern Ireland as has been used by the UK government. Exemption certificates are already a legal requirement for XL bully dogs in England, Wales, and Scotland.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland’s chief veterinary officer, said: “Time is running out to apply for an exemption certificate and the risks of not doing so are serious – your dog could be seized and you could be taken to court. Owners without a certificate risk losing their pet.

“I want to emphasise to all XL bully owners that they must take action now and ensure their dog gets exempted before 31 December 2024. Although neutering your XL bully is a condition of exemption, there is still time to neuter your XL bully after the 31 December 2024, so the important thing is to submit your application in time.”

More details about applying for an exemption certificate can be found here.

Image © Shutterstock

 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.