Some of our tenants have understandably raised concerns about whether they will be able to remain in their home with their pet once the Government’s ban on XL Bully dogs is implemented from 31 December 2023.
The Government has ruled that the XL Bully breed will be added to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, and it will be illegal to own an XL Bully dog after this date if you do not have a Certificate of Exemption.
Lafford Homes would like to reassure all tenants that the organisation does not wish to evict anyone for owning an XL Bully, nor do we wish for tenants’ dogs to be euthanised if this is avoidable.
As a responsible housing landlord, we have a duty of care to all our tenants and staff and are required to follow government guidelines. We therefore request that all pet owners, including tenants that own an XL bully dog, ensure they have applied for permission for any pets that they have in the property. This is to minimise any issues being caused to other residents and to staff entering their home – for example to carry out repairs.
You can request permission by emailing [email protected] and a member of our team will contact you to discuss requirements.
It is possible to keep a banned dog breed if you successfully apply for an exemption from the Government and provide the relevant documentation to us to demonstrate this is in place.
Tenants will need to follow clear Government guidance if they wish to keep an XL Bully in their Lafford property. For further information regarding this and how to apply for a Certificate of Exemption please see the UK Government XL Bully Dog’s guidance webpages, applications must be submitted before 31 January 2024.
You will also need third party public liability insurance for your dog, and to pay a fee to the Government for each dog you want to keep.
The process of obtaining exemption includes:
- Neutering your dog (confirmed by a vet).
- Ensuring they are microchipped.
- Keeping the dog on a lead and muzzled at all times when in public.
- Keeping the dog in a secure place so it cannot escape.
- Paying the required fee for each dog you wish to keep.
- Obtaining third party liability insurance for your dog.
Once you have obtained a Certificate of Exemption for each dog, please provide a copy to Lafford Homes. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any further queries regarding this.