Police in Mickleton are addressing concerns from the public about XL Bully Dogs.

There have been three recent dog-related incidents we have responded to locally; two people sustained minor injuries after being bitten and one dog was wounded after being bitten by another dog.

The dogs involved in the unrelated incidents were not identified as XL Bully dogs but may share some similar characteristics. They are being investigated and we have provided advice to the owners about how to secure their animals properly to avoid such incidents happening again.

With regards to XL Bully dogs, the government has added this breed to the list of dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 following a rise across the country in attacks and fatalities suspected of being caused by them.

From 31 December 2023 it will be against the law to sell, abandon, give away or breed from an XL Bully dog or have one in public without a muzzle or a lead.

Until that time it is not against the law to own an XL Bully dog and further information is available on the Government website: Prepare for the ban on XL Bully dogs - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

If you see a dog which is dangerously out of control and there is a risk to the public, whether or not it is one of the dangerous dog types, dial 999. 

For advice on whether your dog is one of the listed breeds visit: https://www.gov.uk/control-dog-public/banned-dogs

Stray dogs should be reported to your local dog warden service: https://www.gov.uk/report-stray-dog