Mansfield Wildlife Rescue Relieved After DNA Test Proves Abandoned Puppies Not Banned Breed

Mansfield Wildlife Rescue in Nottinghamshire, UK, expressed relief after a DNA test revealed that a litter of abandoned puppies they had taken in were not a banned XL bully breed, but rather a crossbreed of Belgian Malinois and Staffordshire bull terrier. The puppies, found dumped in Mansfield Woodhouse when they were just days old, had raised concerns at the charity that they might have been discarded due to potentially being an XL bully, a breed now illegal to own in England and Wales.

The DNA test results allowed the charity to completely alleviate their worries, according to a spokesperson. With the breed confirmation, Mansfield Wildlife Rescue can now proceed with rehoming the puppies, which are reportedly "doing absolutely fine" except for the runt of the litter who unfortunately did not survive. The charity believes the original owner likely abandoned the puppies out of fear they could be the banned XL bully breed.

Why this matters: This story highlights the ongoing challenges and misconceptions surrounding banned dog breeds in the UK. It also emphasizes the vital role that animal rescue organizations play in providing care and finding homes for abandoned and at-risk animals, regardless of breed.

A representative from Mansfield Wildlife Rescue stated, "We are just so relieved to have the DNA results confirm these puppies are not the banned XL bully breed. Now we can focus on nurturing them and finding them the loving homes they deserve." The charity's swift action in rescuing the puppies and investing in DNA testing to ensure responsible rehoming showcases their dedication to animal welfare in the face of breed-specific legislation and public concerns.

Key Takeaways

• Mansfield Wildlife Rescue took in abandoned puppies, concerned they were banned XL bully breed.
• DNA test revealed the puppies were a Belgian Malinois and Staffordshire bull terrier crossbreed.
• The charity can now proceed with rehoming the puppies, except for the runt who did not survive.
• The original owner likely abandoned the puppies out of fear they were the banned XL bully breed.
• The story highlights challenges with banned dog breeds and the vital role of animal rescue organizations.