I am a proud owner of an XL Bully, a breed that has been unfairly stigmatized by the government and media. Contrary to popular belief, my dog is not a symbol of status or aggression. I am not the stereotypical 'gold chain' wearing owner often associated with this breed. Instead, I am a working professional in the financial industry who sees my dog as nothing more than a loving family member with a gentle soul.

The current ban on XL Bullies forces responsible owners like myself to leash and muzzle our pets in public spaces. This restriction is unjust for dogs like mine who live for simple pleasures such as running after his ball in an open field and getting the exercise all dogs need.

Breed-specific legislation (BSL) has been proven ineffective in reducing dog bites or promoting public safety. According to studies by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), it's not specific breeds but individual dogs' behavior that poses risk factors for aggression (AVMA, 2014). Moreover, BSL places unnecessary burdens on responsible pet owners while failing to address the root cause of dangerous dog behaviors which are often due to irresponsible ownership and lack of socialization or training.

I urge our lawmakers to review this ban against XL Bullies and reconsider its implications based on factual evidence rather than stereotypes and misconceptions about certain breeds. Let's focus instead on promoting responsible pet ownership which would be far more effective at ensuring public safety.

Furthermore, I am more than happy to assist with revisiting how we can manage situations moving forwards - valid suggestions involve price caps on puppies (stopping the back street breeders); mandatory puppy training and socialisation with a potential review at a later date for larger breeds. Anyone who are not willing to adhere simply cannot buy or own a dog. 

Please take a moment to imagine yourself in mine and my dogs situation (like thousands of other owners right now in the UK).

I have two dogs - one XL bully and the other a crossbreed (mix between a lab, sharpei, staffy and basset hound). I take them to a field every morning, they play with around 8-12 other dogs each day. My XL is solely playing with his friends and his ball (and sharing!), other is running around like a loon. When this ban takes affect, I'm going to have to go to this same field that we've gone to for over two years, let my other dog of leash and keep my XL on - watching all other dogs having fun, running around. He won't even be able to have his ball due to the muzzle. Please tell me how this is fair? Oh and for the privilege, I have to pay for an exemption as well as other factors. 

I am happy to attend parlimentary debates / speak - even bring bring my XL to parliment! Please do not tar all XLs with one brush nor believe how the media is trying to portray them. We have learned to evolve from racisim as humans - why are you doing so for dog breeds? Cruel, devastating and heartbreaking all at the same time.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fair treatment for all dog breeds including our beloved XL Bullies!