Gloucestershire Constabulary is set to receive £116,000 in government funding to help cover the growing costs associated with banned dog breeds, particularly XL Bully dogs, now illegal under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
The money is part of a wider £9.5 million package from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) aimed at helping police forces across the country with the cost of kennelling and managing banned breeds.
Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson welcomed the funding, calling it a “much-needed boost” amid rising costs and ongoing pressure on police budgets.
“Kennelling banned breeds like XL Bully dogs is another of the lesser-known responsibilities that fall to the Constabulary,” said Mr Nelson. “It is becoming more and more expensive as we’ve had to hire new staff and secure costly kennelling space.”
Kennelling costs have soared in recent years:
- £70,000 in 2022/23
- £298,000 in 2024/25
- £333,000 projected for 2025/26
Mr Nelson credited national lobbying efforts by Police and Crime Commissioners for securing the funding but noted that it will only cover around one-third of the costs the force expects to incur.
“We’re very grateful the government has recognised the massive new burden this legislation has placed on us,” he added.
