SOMEONE WILL DIE

Residents nearby tell of fears as rescuer talks with kennel boss over using house for danger dogs

- PAUL HUTCHEON

A DOG kennels probed over animal welfare concerns has been lined up as a "secret" Scots rescue centre for XL bullies following a crackdown in the rest of Britain.

Animal rescuer Kerryanne Shaw has earmarked Happas Canine Centre, near Forfar, as a "safe haven" for the dangerous dogs- with dozens set to be sent north of the Border following the ban on XL bullies in England and Wales.

Last night residents near the proposed Bully XL rescue centre reacted with fury to the prospect of danger dogs coming into the area.

One said: "The premises are not suitable for XL bullies. It's a disaster waiting to happen. XL bullies are dangerous and authorities need to stop it. My fear is someone will die."

The Scottish Government is considering a U-turn after rejecting calls for a similar ban to England and Wales. 

And a spokesperson said last night: "We are concerned to hear reports of XL Bully dogs being moved to Scotland for rehoming and have made clear to the UK Government that there should be no impact to Scotland and that people in England and Wales should not use any loopholes created by the UK Government to get rid of their dogs.

"In light of recent events, ministers are urgently reviewing the policy on XL bully dogs and public safety will be paramount in our deliberations.

"It is important the legal framework governing the ban in England and Wales - which was enacted with no prior consultation with the Scottish Government is comprehensive in ensuring relevant owners can be held to account for their actions as they react to the ban being introduced there." Bully "rescuers" continue to send dozens of dogs north of the Border and a centre is planned at the Happas facility.