Minister Humphreys has signed regulations to introduce the XL Bully Ban in Ireland
September 2024 News from the Department of Rural and
Community Development - Ireland, is as follows - there is additional news for rescues:
Following engagement with Animal Welfare charities and shelters, existing XL Bully dogs already in these facilities on 1st October will be permitted to be rehomed or exported subject to strict criteria until February 1st 2025.
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather
Humphreys TD, has signed the Control of Dogs (XL Bully) Regulations 2024 that
will introduce the ban on XL Bully type dogs in Ireland.
The ban will come into force in two stages beginning on the
1st October 2024 with a full ownership ban coming into force on the 1st
February 2025.
The period between these two dates will allow current XL
Bully dog owners time to apply for a Certificate of Exemption from their local
authority to permit them to keep their dog until the end of its natural life.
There will be no fee for the certificate of exemption.
Owners will be able to apply for a certificate of exemption
from their local authority from 1st October subject to the dog being:
Microchipped
Neutered
Following engagement with Animal Welfare charities and shelters, existing XL Bully dogs already in these facilities on 1st October will be permitted to be rehomed or exported subject to strict criteria until February 1st 2025.
This means when in a public place, these dogs must be
securely muzzled and kept on a strong chain or leash (maximum 2 metres in
length) by a person over 16 years of age who is capable of controlling the dog.
Further information regarding the XL Bully ban and how to
apply for exemption can be found here - https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e5d55-xl-bully-ban-ireland
