Police face extra pressures one year after XL Bully ban came into force
Officers across Herts and Bucks say they are managing seizures despite funding challenges, and are now calling on the Government for financial support
Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Police tell us they are facing significant challenges since the Government's ban on XL Bully dogs came into effect a year ago.
The legislation required owners to obtain exemption certificates or risk having their dogs seized by police.
Peter Madden, the dangerous dog advisor for both forces, says officers have consistently been able to seize dangerous dogs when necessary, despite the added pressure on resources.
"We have never had a situation where we have been unable to seize a dog that was a threat to the public," he said. "However, we have had to manage the timing of some seizures where a dog was only suspected to be an XL Bully and there was no immediate risk."
Madden highlighted the financial strain on policing, with no additional funding provided by the Government to support the enforcement of the ban.
"We have had absolutely no funding whatsoever for this additional burden," he said. "Nationally, police forces are pressing the Government to provide funding because this is all coming out of police budgets, and it is a significant burden."
He added that the number of dogs dealt with by officers had risen significantly, increasing the demand for kennel space and contributing to higher costs.
"Our original contract for kennelling was insufficient, so we have had to arrange additional facilities," he said. "The workload has increased significantly, as has the cost."
Despite these challenges, officers continue to enforce the law and ensure public safety. Madden said the force remains committed to managing dangerous dogs, but without extra funding, the strain on resources will persist.
"Police forces across the country are dealing with the same issue," he said. "We will keep doing what we need to do to protect the public, but we also need support to deal with the rising costs and demands this legislation has created."