'Save Our Bullies' and 'Muzzle Rishi': Londoners protest as Rishi Sunak government proposes ban on XL bully dogs

Hundreds of protesters gathered in London over the weekend to stage their protest against the Government’s proposed ban on XL bully dogs.

Demonstrators gathered in Trafalgar Square, holding signs that read “protect our bullies” and “muzzle Rishi,” following a recent incident where a man was bitten by a dog believed to be an XL bully in a park in south London.

The victim, a man in his forties, was attacked in Pasley Park, Walworth, shortly after 6 pm on Friday. He was taken to the hospital with injuries to his arm, as reported by the Metropolitan Police.

Protesters marched through the city, chanting slogans like “save our bullies” and “sit for your dog.” One protester even wore a t-shirt featuring a photoshopped image of Rishi Sunak wearing a muzzle.

Notably, demonstrators did not bring their XL bully dogs to the protest. Ahead of the event, activists received a warning message that stated, “police may confront you and confiscate your dog.”

Michelle West, from Northfleet, was one of the participants in the rally. She shared her perspective, saying, “People should take responsibility for their dogs. They are blaming the wrong end of the leash. I’ve never encountered a dog as affectionate and gentle as mine.”

This protest comes just two weeks after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that XL bullies would be added to the list of prohibited breeds under the Dangerous Dogs Act due to a series of recent attacks. Owners of American XL bullies will not be required to cull their pets, but Downing Street has stated that measures will be implemented to manage the existing population of these dogs. The ban is expected to take effect by the end of the year.

Ness Lyons, a writer and lawyer, witnessed an XL bully attack in her local park and shared her experience on social media. She wrote, “Earlier this evening, an XL bully leaped a fence and attacked a man in my local park. My son partially witnessed it. The man sustained severe bites in several places, including his abdomen. The police and ambulance arrived, but it took an hour. It was horrifying. The owner quickly fled with his dog.”

No arrests have been made, but the Metropolitan Police have stated that their inquiries are ongoing.

Ian Price, aged 52, was attacked by two dogs believed to be XL bullies in Staffordshire in September.

It’s worth noting that the XL bully, a breed developed from the American pit bull terrier, is not officially recognized as a specific breed by the Kennel Club.

On Monday, the Prime Minister’s official spokesperson announced that a “transition period” would be introduced regarding the ban, with further details expected to follow after a consultation on the plan.