An XL bully meet set to take place in Aberdeen’s Duthie Park this Saturday has been called off.
Co-organiser Danielle McCallum said the decision was made after Scotland confirmed their intention to follow England’s lead with a ban.
The event was set to take place at the park’s band stand at 1pm this Saturday where over 20 XL bullies were expected.
Owners were also encouraged to bring ‘banners, signs and cameras’ to the park.
However, organisers Danielle McCallum and Taylor Stirling have since taken the decision to cancel over fears of “mistakes” which would spoil the occasion.
Cancellation announced via social media
The change of plan was announced via Facebook on the event’s dedicated page.
The statement read: “Hey all, I think the best and safest thing to do just now would be to cancel this meet.
“This is due to Scotland bringing about the ban due to so many dogs from England and Wales coming up here.
“We can’t afford for anything to go wrong. If we have any silly people bringing dogs etc…
“We can’t have mistakes that will affect how special the day was supposed to be, or false allegations from the public!
“I think it’s best to stay away for now.
“Thank you so much for understanding, and keep your dogs safe. Do NOT give anyone a reason to say anything!
First minister comment prompts cancellation
The cancellation comes after the news that the XL bully ban will be replicated in Scotland.
Mr Yousaf had previously claimed a ban was not required due to already strict controls in place.
However, the SNP leader has today told MSP’s the government will now go ahead with the ban.
He confirmed the news while responding to a question from SNP MSP Jim Fairlie.
He said: “What has become clear, I’m afraid in the last few weeks, is we have seen a flow of XL bully dogs coming to Scotland.
“We will, in essence, replicate the legislation that is in England and Wales here in Scotland because ultimately, although we do have a very good system of dog control notice schemes, and we do take the approach of deed not breed, we have to respond to the situation as it currently stands and therefore we will do what we need to do to ensure public safety.”
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