Many of us are aware that on the 15th September 2023, the UK government announced plans to ban XL bully dog breeds by the end of the year. This news is absolutely devastating because of what it means for so many dogs, and so many families. The same can be said for the four currently banned breeds in the UK (the American Pit Bull terrier, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa and Fila Brasileiro) all of which are needlessly killed each year through no fault of their own, purely because of their breed.

One thing we do know is that the people making these decisions are not experts on dog behaviour - they are not animal behaviourists or psychologists, nor do they consult those who are - which is not fair on the dogs at all. Any person who has ever worked with dogs, or has had the joy of owning one, will know that dog breeds are never the problem, but rather the owners. Dogs are never born aggressive or dangerous, but are instead trained or abused into being so by humans. 

This is why we ask that the government reinstate dog licensing, instead of banning entire breeds. Dog licensing was dropped in the UK in the late 80's just before BSL (Breed-Specific Legislation) also known as the Dangerous Dogs Act was enacted in 1991. BSL has been in place for more than 30 years and now, in 2023, it's time for change.

What we ask is that dog owners require a licence to keep dogs, and that licences are ONLY given if that person demonstrates that they can take care of the dog properly, has done their research, and has prior experience. This, along with regular inspections to make sure that dogs are not being neglected or abused, as well as greater punishments for animal abuse, would mean less attacks on people, and less dogs being euthanised. Dogs would be less likely to fall into the wrong hands, meaning less cases of cruelty, less abandoned dogs, less dog fighting and less fatalities.

Dogs are wonderful, caring, loyal, integral members of our families, and have been by our side for centuries. They deserve a chance. They don't deserve to die or be treated any differently because of their breed or label.

If you care about dogs or animals in general, please sign and share this petition. We need to fight for them - only we can be their voice!