Owner of XL Bully Dogs appears in court over failure to register her animals

AN OWNER of XL Bully dogs has appeared in court in Sheffield accused of failing to register her dogs.

Kylie Daley, 25, of Chapletown pleaded guilty at a previous hearing to owning two XL Bully Dogs and had failed to register them with Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Appearing before Sheffield Magistrates’ Court, the judge told her that both dogs must be destroyed. In February, the legislation around owning and keeping an XL Bully dog changed, and owners were required to register, insure, and neuter their animals following an increase in attacks involving the breed.

Ahead of the legislation changes, dog legislation officers engaged with and educated owners across South Yorkshire around the changes, but South Yorkshire Police said “we continued and continue to see owners who failed to act and take responsibility”.

Chief Inspector Emma Cheney, leading the work around dangerous dogs in South Yorkshire, said: “Ahead of the legislation changing, owners were given enough time and reminders to register their dogs with Defra.

“We issued numerous reminders to owners to act. We are here to ensure the law is followed and unfortunately the destruction of these two dogs is the reality of owners failing to act responsibility.

“The legislation around XL Bullys was brought in following a significant rise in attacks by the breed across the country.

“It is important to remember that all dogs can cause harm and fear, but dogs of bigger breeds, including the XL Bully have a greater power and drive.

“If you are a dog owner, please remember to act responsibly, know your dog and reduce risks where possible; everyone has a responsibility for our community’s safety.

“If you have concerns about a dog, please get in touch."