In a bold move, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addressed the nation via social media, unveiling plans to ban the American XL bully breed following a tragic incident in central England. A man fell victim to a brutal dog attack, succumbing to his injuries, prompting Sunak to take swift action.
This unfortunate event is part of a disturbing trend in the United Kingdom, with multiple dog-related incidents making headlines. Sunak felt compelled to respond to this escalating issue.
Tragic Attack Sparks Urgent Response
Emergency services received a distress call on September 14, reporting a man gravely injured in a dog attack near Birmingham. Despite their best efforts, the West Midlands Ambulance Service couldn't save him, confirming his tragic death.
Staffordshire Police arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of owning dangerously out-of-control dogs. Prime Minister Sunak, in his video message, emphasized that this wasn't merely about irresponsible dog owners but rather a recurring pattern of behaviour.
Sunak's Pledge and Immediate Steps
"It's clear this is not about a handful of badly trained dogs. It's a pattern of behaviour, and it cannot go on," Sunak declared. He assured the public that his government was urgently working to prevent further attacks.
Sunak tasked ministers with collaborating with law enforcement and experts to define the breed responsible for these attacks and ultimately outlaw them. He stressed that the safety of residents was their top priority, promising new legislation to ban the breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act by year-end.
Concerns Over American Bully XL Breed
In another incident on September 9, an 11-year-old girl suffered serious injuries from an American Bully XL and Staffordshire Bull Terrier crossbreed. This prompted Interior Minister Suella Braverman to seek urgent advice on potentially banning the American Bully XL breed.
Braverman, expressing her shock and concern, highlighted the breed's threat to communities, especially children. She called for immediate action, acknowledging the urgency of the situation.
Dangerous Dogs Act
The Dangerous Dogs Act currently bans specific dog breeds, including the pitbull terrier, Japanese tosa, dogo Argentino, and fila Brasileiro. Notably, the American XL Bully is not officially recognized as a distinct breed by the UK's Kennel Club. The club argues against breed-specific bans, emphasizing responsible ownership and training as crucial elements in preventing dog-related incidents.
The term "bully breeds" originated from their historical involvement in blood sports like bull baiting. These breeds are characterized by their muscular build and robust bone structure, distinguishing them from pit bulls.
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