XL Bully owners to take action now to avoid their pet being seized

XL Bully owners only have 3 weeks left to apply for an Exemption Certificate to avoid their dog being seized and facing court action, which could lead to them losing their pet.

From 1 January 2025, Ards and North Down Borough Council officers will have the power to seize your XL Bully if it has not been exempted.

The application form must be submitted by 31 December 2024 and only takes a matter of minutes to complete. Applications should be made through Ards and North Down Borough Council at www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/XL-Bully-Dogs

For XL Bully dogs to be eligible for exemption they must be microchipped, licenced and have third-party insurance. Whilst XL Bully dogs must also be neutered as part of the exemption conditions, this can be completed after you have made your application. Depending on the dog's age, evidence of neutering can be submitted up until 30 June 2025.

The application for exemption must still be made, however, by 31 December 2024, regardless of the age or neutering status of the dog.

Full details of the application process and the conditions for exemption can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/xlbullydogs.

Please contact net.admin@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk or telephone 0300 013 3333 (Ext. 40408) if you would like guidance on completing your application or if you have any queries.