A solicitor makes legal history in Scotland by saving an XL Bully dog from being put down after missing exemption deadlines.
She feared Fudge would be put down, feeling like a fugitive. In desperation, she sought help from Sharon Collins, a solicitor, who took the case for free.
Owners must register XL Bullies, keep them on a lead, and muzzle them in public. The dogs also need insurance, spaying, and microchips. These rules were implemented after a series of XL Bully attacks, and violating them can result in seizure and destruction.
Fudge was too young for spaying, compounding the issue of Margaret missing the exemption deadline by only a few days in July 2024. At that point, new exemptions required a court order, and other law firms wouldn’t take her case.
Sharon felt compelled to help, recognizing Margaret as a good owner. She started working on the case, realizing it was the first of its kind in Scotland.
Penalties for lacking an exemption were serious, potentially leading to fines or jail time for owners. Margaret and Fudge had felt like fugitives for a while, and Sharon’s case bought Fudge valuable time.
They almost went to the High Court when Jonathan Deans offered legal help. Ultimately, the extension was granted, and Fudge was spayed and became compliant with the regulations.
Fudge is the first dog in Scotland to receive this type of extension. Sharon helped save Fudge’s life, and Margaret is deeply thankful. Margaret believes some owners give this breed a bad reputation.
Fudge is now one year old. Margaret knows that without Sharon, Fudge would be dead and she would only receive £200. Now that Fudge is spayed, registered, and fully compliant, Margaret is no longer worried. It is all thanks to Sharon.