Scotland’s first XL bully sanctuary has been slapped with a damning inspector’s report, which could lead to its refusal of licence.
The Happas Canine Centre, operated by Kerryanne Shaw of All Bullie Charity Rescue, has come under scrutiny following a November inspection which raised serious concerns regarding animal welfare at the facility near Forfar.
Angus Council’s animal welfare inspector Coreen Hill will recommend that councillors block the licence application when it comes before the civic licensing committee this Thursday.
The inspector’s report has expressed concerns about Shaw’s “lack of knowledge and understanding” in operating such a facility, where up to 25 bulldog-type animals are housed, The Courier reports.
The inspector’s report has highlighted concerns about Shaw’s “lack of knowledge and understanding” in operating such a facility, where up to 25 bulldog-type animals are housed
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The application has come nearly a year after Shaw relocated from Glasgow to Angus to develop the site, having raised more than £20,000 for the project as chairperson of All Bullie Charity Rescue.
While the dogs were found to be in good health and the kennels were clean, the facility lacked individual heating for the animals beyond basic bedding.
Additionally, the inspector noted a complete absence of charts or paperwork documenting food quantities, feeding schedules, or dietary information for the dogs.
There were no toys or grooming tools visible during the inspection, and noise levels in the kennel block were described as loud, with no ear defenders available.
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The report also highlighted serious concerns about medication management, with medicines being stored unlocked, unsecured, unrefrigerated, and some past their expiry date.
Fire and emergency procedures were deemed insufficient to ensure the safety of both dogs and handlers.
Additionally, the facility had no active veterinary premises signed up for the charity, with vaccinations being carried out by a charity vet from England.
The inspection revealed a potential breach of law, with one XL bully having remained on the property for more than 30 days, exceeding the legal limit for keeping the breed away from its owner.
This breach has been flagged as a police matter, according to the inspector’s report, as particular concern was raised about a specific dog kept in isolation.
“The answers provided by the applicant highlighted further concerns regarding the lack of knowledge and understanding required to satisfactorily run the premises as intended,” the inspector flagged.
The welfare expert concluded that the proposed number of dogs cannot be safely managed by Shaw alone, citing the absence of other staff or volunteers.
The case has followed the introduction of strict regulations for XL bullies in Scotland, which came into effect last year (Stock)
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The facility’s “no kill policy” was also highlighted as problematic, given that some of the dogs have serious kennel guarding issues.
Multiple hazards were identified as still present at the site, with no veterinary support confirmed for handling daily issues.
In response to the report, Kerryanne Shaw said: “Of course I am extremely disappointed by the report as so much work has gone into the premises and I felt the inspection went quite well.”
She confirmed that her solicitor has submitted written representations to the committee and said that she would appeal if the licence is rejected.
The case has followed the introduction of strict regulations for XL bullies in Scotland, which came into effect last year.
