First Scottish XL bully sanctuary to receive licence approval

Following a two-year legal battle, the All Bullie Charity Rescue (ABCR) has been given the go-ahead by the council to operate.

Sited at the Happas Canine Centre close to the town of Forfar in Strathmore and owned by Kerryanne Shaw, the sanctuary is the first to care for the XL bully breed in Scotland.

The laws regarding XL bullies in the country are similar to those in England and Wales, but were introduced around five months later. Throughout the UK, XL bullies must always stay on a lead and wear a muzzle when in public. It is illegal to breed, sell, advertise, gift or exchange an XL bully, and also to abandon or rehome one.

To legally keep a dog of this breed, owners must hold a certificate of exemption. This requires mandatory microchipping and neutering of the dog.

A dedicated animal rescuer, Shaw is committed to saving XL bullies. The newly approved animal welfare licence will let her and the registered charity legally operate for up to 12 months before renewal is required. Shaw and her team admitted they had not anticipated the work involved to meet the necessary standards, but expressed relief at being awarded an official licence. A member of the ABCR team voiced that some dogs arriving at the sanctuary came from awful circumstances, stressing the importance of them having a loving and safe home.

A qualified dog aggression behaviourist in Oxfordshire, Azz Rainey is experienced in working with XL bullies and other large dog breeds. Owners in need of support can connect with him for assistance.