Ex-Love Island Star Faye Winter Advocates for XL Bullies, Animal Testing Ban, and Guide Dogs

Feb 19

Former Love Island star Faye Winter has taken her influence far beyond reality TV, becoming a passionate advocate for animal welfare. Using her platform, she has been raising awareness about misunderstood dog breeds, like XL Bullies, and fighting against animal testing. As an ambassador for Guide Dogs UK, Winter has long been committed to supporting dogs in need, but her latest efforts focus on saving dogs facing discrimination and cruelty.

Speaking Out for XL Bullies

One of Winter’s most heartfelt campaigns centers around Nala, an XL Bully at RSPCA Little Valley in Exeter. With new UK legislation banning XL Bullies, many dogs like Nala are being euthanized simply because of their breed. Winter recently met Nala and was moved by her gentle and loving nature, challenging the negative stereotypes surrounding these dogs.

Sharing her experience on Instagram, she wrote:

"NALA - firstly what an honour to meet such an incredible, kind soul that the UK wants to generalise as evil. It was a pleasure to be in your company from the moment I saw you to the moment I left."

She acknowledged the pain of those affected by dog attacks but argued that banning an entire breed based on a few incidents is unjust. She also revealed that speaking up on the issue has cost her professionally:

"Through speaking on this subject I’ve endured hate and lost work but if I can save one dog’s life I know it will be for something."

Nala is currently waiting for a home, but due to her physical characteristics, she must go through an exception process to be rehomed legally—something Winter called heartbreaking. She encouraged her followers to keep spreading awareness, reminding them that behind the headlines, there are countless loving, innocent dogs being put down simply because of their breed.

Fighting Against Animal Testing

Beyond breed advocacy, Winter is also campaigning against animal testing. She recently visited MBR Acres, a UK facility where beagles are bred for scientific experiments, describing it as “the gates of hell.” These dogs are used in outdated toxicology tests and never get to experience the love and companionship they deserve.

Winter, alongside activists from Camp Beagle, is calling for an end to these practices. She urged her followers to sign a petition that could bring the issue to Parliament for debate:

"In just one night, over 46,000 signatures have been added to the petition! Once we reach 100,000, this cruelty will be debated in Parliament."

She expressed her frustration at the secrecy surrounding these facilities, revealing that beagles are specifically chosen for testing because of their trusting and gentle nature.

"These dogs will never feel grass beneath their paws, never know the warmth of the sun on their bellies. They are bred because they are gentle, because they are trusting, because even in the face of pain, all they want to do is please."

Despite being warned to stay silent, Winter refuses to back down, stating:

"I was even advised to stay silent. But I won’t. I can’t."

Her Work with Guide Dogs UK

Winter’s passion for dogs extends beyond advocacy—she is also an ambassador for Guide Dogs UK, supporting the training of service dogs that change lives. Through this role, she raises awareness about the impact guide dogs have on people with visual impairments and helps promote responsible dog ownership.

Her commitment to dog welfare is evident across multiple causes, from supporting assistance dogs to fighting breed discrimination and ending animal testing.

A Call to Action

Faye Winter is proving that reality TV fame can be used for real change. Whether she’s standing up for XL Bullies like Nala, exposing the cruelty of animal testing, or supporting guide dogs, she is using her platform to give a voice to the voiceless.

For those inspired by her work, there are plenty of ways to get involved—sign petitions, support rescue centers, and educate others on responsible pet ownership. As Winter says: