Lancashire sees a surge in arrests related to dangerous dog offenses, despite the XL Bully ban.
The number of arrests was much lower before. There were 691 arrests in 2020. The figures rose to 719 in 2021 and 823 in 2022.
East Lancashire had many attacks this past year. David Daintree tragically died in August. The XL Bully ban started in December 2023. The government hoped to reduce attacks.
A police chief, Mark Hobrough, commented on the ban. He said police adapted quickly to enforce it. Hobrough believes the ban has reduced dog attacks.
People are still reporting suspected XL Bully dogs. Yet, arrests for dangerous dog offenses increased in 2024. Police recorded over 100 more cases than in 2023. Concerns exist about the police workload after the ban.
A focus on responsible dog ownership appears vital. Hobrough says police will uphold government decisions. Still, responsible ownership is the broader issue. People should think hard before getting a dog.
Choose a breed suiting their lifestyle and experience. Data also showed a rise in animal cruelty cases. Owners caused “unnecessary suffering” to animals. In 2024, police recorded 91 such offenses.
This is almost triple the prior year’s number. It’s also 18 times more than in 2022. No similar offenses were recorded before 2022. Twelve such offenses have been recorded in 2025.
The RSPCA launched a campaign during Christmas 2024. Pet abuse cases have been rising worryingly. They link neglect to pandemic pet ownership. Financial problems also contribute to neglect cases.