A pet charity in South Yorkshire has announced the launch of its new field for XL bullies and all other dogs on the banned UK list.
The field, ran by ‘Rain Rescue’, allows the large dogs to run freely without muzzles, in a ‘secure’ field equipped with an agility padlock.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “This is a milestone we’ve worked hard to achieve, and it’s part of our commitment to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all pets and their owners.
“We believe every dog deserves a chance to play, learn, and socialise in a secure setting.”
The field is for exempt dogs only and owners must have their exemption certificates upon booking.
The launch of the secure field follows a trend in recent weeks as areas to walk the banned dogs, unmuzzled, have opened up in Kent, Cornwall, Surrey and many more.
The ban on XL Bully’s came into full force on February 1, and made it a criminal offence to own one of these dogs unregistered and without an exemption certificate.
As part of the legislation the dogs must remain muzzled and kept on leads in public.
Owners found to not be following the legislation will have their dogs seized and can face criminal charges.
‘Rain Rescue’ confirmed that slots for the secure field must be booked in advance in order to not mix any dogs not from the same household.
The announcement made directly from the charity has received over 400 shares and hundreds of comments praising the launch.
XL Bully owner Jean Kay said: “Fantastic news, but it should never have come to this. Shame on the government and well done Rain.”
A spokesperson for the charity said: “Our onsite field is taking a break due to weather conditions, but rest assured, your furry friends can enjoy this space as soon as it reopens, and can still enjoy our agility padlock in the meantime.”
It charges £7.50 for 30 minutes or £15 for an hour.
Bookings can be made through the website https://rainrescue.co.uk/ or by calling 01709 247777.
Rain Rescue is at Summerfield Lodge, Moat Lane, Wickersley, Rotherham.