Why you should join the end BSL campaign

Breed specific legislation (BSL) was introduced in the UK in 1991 and prohibited four different types of dog: the pit bull terrier, Japanese Tosa, Fila Braziliero and Dogo Argentino. Its aim was to reduce ownership of these types of dogs and improve human safety. But, 26 years later, large numbers of dogs continue to be seized and hospital admissions for dog bites/attacks rise year-on-year. In fact, between 2005 and 2015, admissions for dog bites and strikes increased by 76% (Health and Social Care Information Centre, 2015). Since 1991, 37 people have died in dog-related incidents; 28 involved dogs not prohibited by law (RSPCA, 2016).

BSL is clearly ineffective at protecting public safety and, as a result, has been hugely criticised on both a national and international level. Part of the criticism relates to the identification of prohibited types of dogs, which is predominantly appearance-based rather than taking into account parentage or genetics, meaning that many dogs experience compromised welfare unnecessarily. Suspect dogs are seized and kennelled; both procedures which are potentially very stressful. Although some prohibited types can be lawfully kept, there are strict conditions that must be adhered to, e.g. on lead walking when in a public place which restricts natural behaviour. However, thousands of dogs have been needlessly euthanised simply because of their conformation. Euthanising healthy dogs with sound temperaments on the basis of looks has huge moral implications and undoubtedly a significant impact on those who owned or cared for these dogs and the veterinary professionals who have to undertake the euthanasia.