Phased ban on XL Bully dogs comes into effect

The phased banning of the controversial XL Bully dog in Ireland comes into effect today.

The new law will see existing owners allowed to keep their dogs until the end of their natural lives but the breeding, rehoming, sale or importation of the animal will be banned. After February 25th next year, owners will have to obtain a certificate of exemption to keep their dogs.

Ellen Mac Donald - an Irish mix bully breed owner in Canada says it could stop her from returning to Ireland