A canine sports an ‘I’m not an XL Bully’ emblem as he garners disapproving glances
A gentleman had to stitch a note onto his dog's harness, stating 'I am not an XL Bully', as people often misidentify him as the menacing breed.
Matt Stait, a 52-year-old resident of Chepstow in South Wales, reveals that he often encounters quizzical glances from fellow dog owners, particularly in light of recent incidents involving the perilous XL Bully dogs.
Eddie, his faithful seven-year-old companion, is an American Bulldog. Matt senses a certain level of estrangement from others.
Hence, Matt took the initiative to acquire a £5 emblem from Etsy. Since he shared this development on Facebook, he has been flooded with requests for similar badges.
According to Matt, “Numerous individuals have mistaken my dog for an XL bully. That’s precisely why I decided to procure these badges; I want them to serve as conversation starters.”
He reminisces about the time when they used to draw positive attention, but things have changed. While people may not explicitly express avoidance, it’s apparent in their actions.
“Even those familiar with me and Eddie, who would typically approach us to pet him, now maintain a noticeable distance. The disdainful looks are hard to ignore. It’s uncertain how much of it stems from heightened paranoia due to the pervasive news stories about such attacks.”
“It has always been evident, people altering their paths, clutching their little ones and pets close, seemingly wary,” Matt reflects. “This behavior is on the rise.”
The introduction of the new emblem has borne fruit; individuals now approach him, expressing surprise at Eddie’s true nature, distinct from an XL Bully.
Having a background as a security guard, Matt contends that he is the ideal custodian for Eddie. He affirms that Eddie epitomizes the quintessential traits of his breed. While he possesses a protective disposition, proper training ensures he remains well-behaved.
Yet, Matt harbors concerns that the ban targeting XL bullies might inadvertently encompass American Bulldogs. Such an outcome would impede their ability to receive training, utilize kennel services, or partake in excursions to locales adhering to ‘no-banned-breed policies’.
“This is where the crux of the issue lies—determining the rightful guardians for these dogs and specifying the necessary prerequisites,” Matt articulates thoughtfully.
“In general, I don’t advocate for the outright banning of specific breeds. Instead, I advocate for a system of licensing and much more rigorous regulations for breeders. This could include mandatory training and thorough suitability assessments.
“Regrettably, the dogs themselves lack the means to express their perspectives. Those who do have the capacity to voice their opinions are not always well-informed.”
Matt is determined to confront the stereotype that associates large dogs with individuals of questionable character. He asserts that these dogs are predominantly companions of those who relish an active lifestyle.
According to him, the surge in criminal activity within working-class neighbourhoods compels residents to seek out more imposing canine companions to safeguard their loved ones.
