One of the stupider things some cities do is to try to ban various breeds of dogs. Naturally, this usually affects Pit Bulls, the actual target in most cases. This was the case in Denver, Colorado. Now, Xrlq reports that Colorado Governor Bill Owens has signed a bill to prohibit Breed Specific Legislation. This is good news and Xrlq has cogent comments on it.
I've always said, it's not the breed, it's the owner -- ban them!
Robert Douglass at Backroad Blog reports a similar attempt in Auburn, Washington that went a step farther and tried to declare that any dog weighing more than 30 lbs was to be declared a "dangerous dog" requiring a $100/year license and insurance. Fortunately, the measure has been tabled for now although I wonder if this incident in Vancouver, WA is going to revive the ordinance...
It really all boils down to how the dog was raised, not the size or breed. And unfortunately, you can't predict how or what dog owners will do. I have known two supremely kind, gentle Dobermans, a very playful Pit Bull, and many German Shepherds that wouldn't dream of attacking anyone. And by the way, the average Retriever ways more than 30 pounds yet when is the last time you feared one passing you on the street?
Various attempts at legislations such as these are futile and reveal vast ignorance on the part of those who propose them.
My black retriever (proudly featured twice in this very same masthead) is 100 lbs of pure love and sloth like playfullness. But take the tennis ball out, or if a stranger approaches my son (also proudly featured on this very same masthead, utilizing said lab as a pillow) without his permission, then he becomes 100 lbs of raging, snarling, barking, yapping, and jumping protector.
Mr. T. was never so scary . . .
and thats the way I like it.