Kennels continue to board XL bullies despite costs

Kennels are continuing to board XL bullies despite rising costs and concerns over the breed.

The breed has been banned in the UK due to rising attacks which have even caused a number of deaths.

Kennels are still permitted to board XL bullies, but a hike in insurance costs and concern over the dogs' behaviour has caused some to turn away the breed.

Lynne Edwards, who co-owns Linden Lodge Kennels & Cattery, said she did not want to turn dogs and business away.

She said her kennels in Hailsham, East Sussex, has updated its insurance policy and introduced new rules for any XL bullies it takes in.

"People are the problem, rather than dogs," Ms Edwards said.

She described the ban as a "kneejerk reaction", and said the kennels have never had a bad experience with the breed.

"They do not deserve it," she added.

Since the start of this year, owners have been required to keep XL bullies on a lead and muzzled in public. From 1 February it will be illegal to own one without an exemption certificate.

Government guidance allows kennels to continue to board XL bullies, although managers must ensure restrictions on the dogs are imposed in any public areas.

It also advises kennels to consult with their insurers if they are considering taking in the breed.

Jane Freeman, the owner of Lodge Gate Kennels in Robertsbridge, East Sussex, received approval from her insurer to keep taking the dogs on.

She disagrees with the ban, describing it as "sledgehammer to crack a nut".

Ms Freeman also criticised the "vague" description of what constitutes an XL bully.

She said there could be difficulties in identifying the dogs, "as they're not a pure breed", which can cause problems for owners and kennels.

Simon Hansford, owner of the Nook Pet Hotel in Gravesend, Kent, said as a "responsible business owner", they will no longer take XL bullies on.

He was quoted £700 per year by his insurer to continue boarding them.

Mr Hansford added they had experienced some issues with the breed in the past and the rising number of injuries and deaths throughout the country had sparked concern.

"I don't want staff getting injured. It's just not worth it," he said.

Government regulations allow rehoming organisations to apply for a Certificates of Exemption.

These homes need to pay a £92.40 fee for each dog and are required to have third party liability insurance for banned breeds of dogs.

Regarding kennels, guidance from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs said it was "possible for businesses to provide these services for exempted XL bully type dogs if they wish to do so". 

"It is for these organisations to discuss this with their insurance provider," the guidance added.

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