In a harrowing incident that underscores the dangers posed by certain dog breeds, a baby girl in Kerry was hospitalized following a severe attack by an XL Bully dog. The child, believed to be around one year old, was attacked near Lixnaw in north Kerry on Saturday evening. The incident has reignited discussions about the dangers of XL Bully dogs, with the Irish government already set to ban the breed starting in October.

The Attack and Immediate Aftermath

The attack left the baby girl with serious injuries, necessitating her immediate transfer to Cork University Hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment. The dog responsible for the attack was taken to a local veterinary practice and subsequently destroyed. Gardaí have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack, focusing on how the child came into contact with the dog and whether any negligence was involved.

Government Response: A Timely Ban

This tragic event comes just a month after the Irish government confirmed its plan to ban XL Bully dogs. The ban will be implemented in two phases: beginning on October 1, 2024, the breeding, re-homing, re-selling, and importing of XL Bullys will be prohibited. By February 1, 2025, a full ban on owning an XL Bully without a certificate of exemption will be in effect. This legislation aligns Ireland with similar regulations in Britain and Northern Ireland, prompted by a spate of dog attacks in the country.

One of the most notable incidents that influenced this decision was the death of Nicole Morey in Limerick earlier this year, who was killed by her own dogs. Additionally, a young boy named Alejandro Mizsan was left with life-altering injuries after an attack by an XL Bully in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, in November 2022.

A Growing Concern

The attack on the young girl in Kerry is a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by certain dog breeds, particularly XL Bullys. As the government prepares to implement the ban, this incident serves as a poignant example of why such measures are necessary. It also raises important questions about pet ownership responsibility and the need for stricter controls to prevent future tragedies.

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