Tipperary County Council is reminding the public via it’s website of new rules in respect of XL Bully dogs. The Government has relented slightly in that the rehoming of dogs in shelters will not be banned until February 1st next year. The ban on rehoming was initially to come into effect On October 1st.
There are at least 21 XL Bully dogs in county Tipperary according to Dog License records. From October 1st 2024, new regulations will prohibit the importing, breeding or selling of XL Bully type dogs.
From February 1st 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully type dog without a ‘Certificate of Exemption’ issued by the local council. To get a certificate of exemption, for which there is no fee, the dog must be neutered, licenced and microchipped. The Certificate allows existing dog owners to keep their dog until the end of it’s natural life.
Animal Welfare charities and shelters with existing XL Bully dogs already in their facilities on October 1st will be permitted to rehome or export these dogs until February 1st 2025.
As a cross of restricted breeds, XL Bully type dogs are subject to the existing additional controls. This means when in a public place, these dogs must be securely muzzled and kept on a strong chain or leash (maximum 2 metres in length) by a person over 16 years of age who is capable of controlling the dog.
The changes are being made in the interest of public safety after a number of incidents involving XL dogs including the death of a woman in Limerick earlier this year.
