XL bully owners set to meet in Birmingham

Organisers said they wanted to show how 'gentle' the breed can be, after a spate of attacks.

Author: Kellie MaddoxPublished 30th Sep 2023

Owners of American XL bully dogs are set to gather in Birmingham, calling for plans to ban the breed to be stopped.

The Prime Minister announced new laws would be brought in to outlaw the breed, after a spate of attacks.

52-year-old Ian Price died after being mauled by two suspected XL bully dogs in Stonnall on September 14.

It came just days after an 11-year-old was also attacked in Birmingham, and another boy in Walsall.

Dozens of people are expected to gather in Handsworth Park, Birmingham this afternoon (30 September) to show their support for the breed and raise concerns about the ban.

Organiser Jake Harris, who owns three XL bullies, said he was frustrated that people were blaming dogs who hadn't done anything wrong.

The 21-year-old had originally encouraged people to bring their dogs and children to the meet, but later U-turned and said only puppies should come, after a backlash on social media.

West Midlands Police said it was aware of the planned event.

PM: "American XL bully dogs are a danger to our communities"

Earlier this month, the Prime Minister confirmed work was underway to ban American XL bully dogs because they are a "danger to our communities", he said.

But Rishi Sunak would not be drawn into whether plans to ban the breed would be enough to prevent further harm caused by the dogs.

The XL bully, which is developed from the American pit bull terrier, is currently not a recognised as a specific breed by the Kennel Club.

Under the ban, owners could be required to neuter their dogs and muzzle them in public, the Government's chief vet has suggested.

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