DOG lovers in Ireland are on a mission to send XL Bullies abroad in a bid to find a new home – before they are “euthanized”.
Rescuers in Poland, Czech Republic and other EU countries have offered a “helping hand to rehome these dogs”.
An XL bully dog is the largest of the American Bully Breed and is usually a mix of a number of breeds – including an American pit bull terrier.
A concerned charity, named Dogs Angels Ireland, warned that XL bully dogs will have “no future in Republic of Ireland”.
They said: “While [the] exact details are unknown, we did get the information about if these dogs are in pounds/shelters on or after 1st October 2024, they will be euthanized.
“While some were rehomed, there are still plenty in the pounds and most likely, this number will increase coming closer to 1st October and after.”
The Irish Government said the ban is in the interest of public safety following a number of “horrific” attacks by XL Bullies.
The first phase of the ban begins on October 1, 2024, when it will become illegal to import, breed or re-sell XL Bullies.
And then on February 1, 2025, owning an XL Bully in Ireland will be illegal.
The charity said they are “forever grateful” to these organisations who have offered help.
A fundraiser has been set up on GoFundMe to raise money to cover transport and veterinary fees.
Organisers said: “We need to cover their veterinary expenses, and travel cost. Each transport is €3000+, therefore we are setting up the target as €10,000.
“Any amount that will not be spent on transport/veterinary expenses, will stay with Dogs Angels, as they do amazing work to look after all their doggies.”
Almost €4.5K has been raised so far for the canines in need.
They pleaded: “We desperately need your help.
“We need to get as many XL bullies as possible out of the country and to safety.
“We are under so much pressure to try and get this done.”
The ISPCA have also issued a special plea to people to consider adopting an XL Bully “before it’s too late”.
The charity said: “With new legislation coming into effect on 1st October 2024, these animals will no longer be eligible for adoption.
“The ISPCA is making a heartfelt plea to the public to consider giving these dogs a chance at a loving home before it’s too late.”
ARE ANY DOG BREEDS BANNED IN IRELAND?
No breed of dog is currently banned in Ireland. But with certain breeds of dog, additional rules must be followed.
This applies to the following types of dog, as well as strains or cross-breeds of these breeds:
- American pit bull terrier
- English bull terrier
- Staffordshire bull terrier
- Bull mastiff
- Dobermann pinscher
- German shepherd (Alsatian)
- Rhodesian ridgeback
- Rottweiler
- Japanese akita
- Japanese tosa
- Bandog
In Ireland, restricted dogs or strains and crosses of them must be:
- Kept on a short strong lead of under two metres
- With someone over the age of 16, who is able to control them
- Muzzled when in a public place
- Wearing a collar with the name and address of their owner, at all times
But Minister Heather Humphreys confirmed more severe rules could be on the cards, saying: “I have asked the Group to examine the restricted breeds list, in line with actions being taken in the UK and Northern Ireland.
“I am committed to working with colleagues across Government in taking whatever action is necessary to strengthen our dog control laws.”
ISPCA officials also issued an urgent appeal to the public as their animal welfare centres are near capacity.
Some €250k is needed to address the escalating rehoming crisis.
ISPCA CEO Dr Cyril Sullivan said: “The public’s response to our last Emergency Appeal was overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful.
“We are asking again for your support; we are once again at a critical juncture.
“The need for rehoming has never been greater, and whether through adoption or donation, every action counts.
“Our goal is to find loving, long-term homes for all the animals in our care, but we can’t do it without your help and with 340 animals in our care we need to ensure they are all looked after.”
