A WREXHAM mum expressed her frustration after finding out when her breed of dogs will officially be made illegal.

The government recently announced that the American Bully XL dog breed would be banned by the end of this year.

But it has now been reported that breeding, selling, advertising, rehoming, abandoning and allowing an XL Bully to stray in England and Wales will be illegal from December 31, 2023.

Additionally, from this date, XL Bullies must wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead when out in public.

It will become illegal to own an XL Bully from February 1, 2024 unless it is included on a list of exempted dogs.

Ami Evans, aged 26 and of Wrexham, has two XL Bully dogs named Kavi and Karma and a 'pocket' (smaller) bully called Freya.

Following the Prime Minister's initial announcement in September, the mum-of-two young boys told the Leader the dogs are an important part of her family.

Speaking after the latest updates from the government, she said: "They haven't really released any information yet about how you go about getting your exemption.

"I was under the impression that to have one, you have to have your dogs behaviour tested - but I don't understand how they are going to do that for thousands of dogs if every single owner applies for one.

"It's really annoyed me to be honest, and it's heart-breaking because where we live, we are the only ones with XL Bullies.

"Since the first announcement we've had nothing but abuse. 

"One lady followed me with a camera and said she's going to report me.

"People have told me they're going to chuck poison in our garden.

"It's been horrendous. But the people who have taken the time to get to know the dogs have changed their mind.

"I've never had an issue with any of my dogs - they're like my children.

"They are there when I get up in the morning and I put them to bed at night. They have become such a huge part of our family."

Ms Evans said she has had difficult conversations with her youngest son about the situation, adding: "I've got to be truthful with him, they are his best friends.

"But it's very hard to explain this to a three-year-old without upsetting him."