The RCVS and the BVA have issued statements after hearing reports of individual vets and veterinary practices being on the receiving end of abusive and threatening messages from groups campaigning against the XL Bully ban. 

The RCVS said: "We understand that there are very strong opinions about the ban, and we respect the rights of individuals to make their own decisions.

"However, expressing these opinions can never justify or include the harassment and abuse of individual vets, vet nurses or their practice colleagues."

The BVA added: “The Government’s XL Bully ban is also placing additional pressure on veterinary teams who are doing their best in very challenging circumstances to help keep responsible XL Bully owners with their pets wherever possible.

"Their commitment extends to supporting clients with any decision-making around euthanasia in individual cases.

"It’s simply unacceptable for these professionals to face additional challenges through abuse, intimidation or threats.

"Such actions can have a hugely negative impact on individual vets and the wider team."

Resources:

• RCVS XL Bully Guidance: https://www.rcvs.org.uk/setting-standards/advice-and-guidance/xl-bully-dog-ban/
• RCVS Advice line for questions about the legislation: https://www.rcvs.org.uk/setting-standards/advice-and-guidance/contact-the-advice-team/
• BVA toolkit for dealing with abuse: https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/end-the-abuse-of-veterinary-professionals/
  
• Vetlife helpline: https://www.vetlife.org.uk/how-we-can-help/

Photo: Dlexus

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