The proposed ban is an unscientific, knee-jerk reaction
Neither Canada nor Ontario keeps statistics on dog bites. Statistics from
other countries do not support the claim that pit bulls are more dangerous
than other breeds: their bite is not stronger than that of other breeds,
nor are they more likely to bite. Our government should not be introducing
legislation based on folklore.
Breed bans do not work
Of course a ban on pit bulls will reduce pit bull attacks. If we banned
red cars, the number of accidents involving red cars would decrease as well.
But owners who want aggressive dogs will turn to other breeds. Will they
next want to ban Dobermans, German Shepherds, and Labs?
It's true, pit bulls were used to fight
But pit bulls were also bred to be incredibly human-friendly, so that their
handlers could tend to them in the ring. Pit bulls actually score better in
temperament tests than typical "family" dogs, including golden retrievers,
sheepdogs, and collies.
Most people do not even know what a pit bull looks like
The media often falsely blames attacks on pit bulls. There are over 20 breeds
that are commonly mistaken for pit bulls. Even Mr. Bryant blamed an attack
concerning a 150-pound dog on a pit bull -- yet pit bulls only reach 60 pounds.
Muzzling friendly dogs leads to frustrated, erratic behaviour
Most dog bites occur on the owner's property, not while the dog is out
walking on a leash. A muzzle is not a substitute for a responsible owner.
Muzzles frustrate and frighten dogs, and lead to aggressive behaviour.
|