Animal advocacy group Punish the Deed has renewed its call for a dog amnesty after helping to arrange for the export of two seized dogs from Bermuda.

Both pets, which would have faced euthanasia had they remained on the Island, were flown to a temporary foster home in Ohio where it is hoped they will be rehomed. It comes after the Ministry of Health confirmed its policy had been modified to allow owners of banned breeds to export their pets when it is “logistically and financially viable”.

Punish the Breed welcomed the move by the Bermuda Government, but insisted it was not a long-term solution to the problem.

“While we are extremely thankful that the export policy has now been amended to allow for this opportunity when these breeds are seized, we recognise this is not sustainable long term,” the group said.

“Punish the Deed has been petitioning to the minister to request an amendment to the prohibited breeds list in the hope of ushering in a new era of responsible ownership and animal welfare.

“While this policy remains enforced it allows for an endless cycle of distress within the local community of Bermuda. We would like to stress the need for an immediate amnesty while the current policy is under review. This is our hope for 2016.”

The group has pledged to help owners of banned breeds that have been seized to export their pets. E-mail deednotbreedbermuda@gmail.com