All XL Bully dogs saved from Suffolk Animal Rescue

Suffolk Animal Rescue launched an urgent plea on Friday to save the dogs currently in its care. 

This included two-year-old Meech, who attracted huge social media attention with more than 3,000 shares, as people rallied to help save the XL Bully. 

The centre had three XL Bullies in its care (Image: Suffolk Animal Rescue)

From December 31, it will be against the law to sell, abandon, give away or breed an XL Bully dog, as well as to have one in public without a lead and a muzzle.

And from February 1 next year, it will become a criminal offence to own an XL Bully in England and Wales unless you have a Certificate of Exemption and adhere to strict rules around microchipping and neutering. 

The rescue centre had three XL Bullies in its care and were in a race against time to secure them a new home but confirmed on Saturday evening all of them had been saved. 

A statement said: "We are very very happy to announce all three of our XL's that came to light yesterday are now all safe and soon off to their new homes. It has been a very very stressful 24 hours but our team pulled together along with our supporters with their likes, shares and messages and all three are safe.

"We now have the task of getting everyone neutered as non of them have been and exempting them."

As well as Meech, the centre also sought a new home for Zushi, a two-year-old female, and Brutus.

A spokesman said: "Zushi is dog and child friendly and has lived with both. She loves to play and have cuddles on the sofa.

"She is a gentle giant who doesn't deserve to be on death row! Zushi can be strong on the lead at the start of a walk however soon settles down and walks nicely."