Global Effort

At Florida Pit Crew Foundation, our mission is to eliminate breed discrimination against bully breeds around the globe. We work closely with rescues and veterinarians worldwide to advocate for these misunderstood dogs. Currently, we are focusing on assisting bully breeds and their owners in Ireland, especially in light of the impending XL bully ban, set to take effect on October 1, 2024. Your contributions are vital to our mission of creating lasting, positive change in the lives of these breeds.

A Glimpse into the Terrible Conditions

Around the world, bully breeds face unjustified stigma, leading to inhumane treatment and neglect. In many areas, these dogs endure terrible living conditions due to widespread breed-specific legislation (BSL) that categorizes them as inherently dangerous. Shelters are often overcrowded, and due to BSL, many bully breeds are either euthanized or live in cramped, dirty cages for extended periods, without the love, care, or exercise they need. Additionally, they frequently suffer from physical and emotional abuse due to fear and misunderstanding.

In Ireland, the situation is particularly dire. Bully breeds, especially those like the XL bully, are regularly abandoned by owners who fear legal consequences, left to survive on the streets or in underfunded, overcrowded shelters. Many are confiscated from loving families, contributing to the trauma and stress these dogs endure. Their fate often leads to neglect, isolation, and even abuse at the hands of those who don't understand their true nature.

The Ban and Its Impact

The new ban on XL bullies in Ireland aims to target so-called "dangerous" dogs, but it disproportionately affects responsible owners and their pets. Rather than focusing on the actual behavior of individual dogs, this legislation enforces blanket restrictions on dogs solely based on their appearance and perceived breed. This results in families being torn apart, with pets either surrendered to shelters or confiscated.

For owners who wish to keep their dogs legally, a Certificate of Exemption will be required. This involves going through a lengthy and costly process, including strict regulations such as ensuring the dog is muzzled and on a short lead in public, has appropriate insurance, and is microchipped. This process places an unfair burden on owners who have cared for their dogs responsibly, making it nearly impossible for some families to afford the necessary steps to keep their beloved pets.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

70% of bully breeds in shelters are either euthanized or left without adoption prospects, due to unfair breed perceptions.
In Ireland, since the announcement of the XL bully ban, reports of abandoned bully breeds have increased by 40% as owners are either fearful of fines or unable to comply with the strict requirements.
In the UK, where similar bans exist, nearly 5,000 dogs were seized in 2022 due to breed-specific laws, and more than half of them were later euthanized, regardless of behavior or temperament.

These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need to address the root causes of breed-specific discrimination and challenge laws that harm responsible dog owners and innocent animals. At the Florida Pit Crew Foundation, we are committed to advocating for bully breeds by working closely with rescues, veterinarians, and policymakers to change hearts, minds, and laws.

Your support helps us provide medical care, legal assistance, and rehoming for these dogs, giving them the second chance they deserve. Together, we can make a real difference for bully breeds around the world.