Decision details

This report sets out the Council’s approach to the management of XL Bullys in council tenancies to support officers in their day to day duties.

AGREED that the Policy to allow tenants who owned an XL Bully prior to 31 January 2024 to keep their dog providing:

·         Full compliance with the Government Exemption Certificate requirements;

·         No reported issues relating to the dog ownership or behaviour that would be a breach of tenancy (excluding the explicit condition relating to ownership of a banned breed); and

·         That any agreement will fall away if there is an incident involving an XL bully – and appropriate action for breach of tenancy will commence as with an incident with any other animal.

The recommended option presents a compromise of options A&B which offers a pragmatic approach for owners who have had this legislation imposed upon them but also provides clear consequences should the owner fail to ensure the dog is under control at all times.