[Speed Gibson,
Friday April 27, 2007 at 8:21am]
The Truth about Dogs
We have a dog, always have. But it's under 20 pounds, and barring a couple of accidents, has never escaped our fenced yard or leash. We like most other breeds, including larger ones, but they're not suited to city life.
That said, it's time to outlaw these larger, more agressive breeds that have been mauling several victims recently. And when there is such an attack, vigorously prosecute their owners.
Can we cut the crap about, "Oh, they're no different than other breeds. It's how you train them!" Perhaps, but there is no reason to take the risk. Besides, too many such owners train them to be agressive despite what they say on camera. Spend some time at one of these dog walking parks, and you'll soon see for yourself.
And by the way, this isn't a class issue. In my walking hobby (15 cities so far), I was confronted by more loose dogs in Plymouth than the other 14 cities combined, about a dozen.
That said, it's time to outlaw these larger, more agressive breeds that have been mauling several victims recently. And when there is such an attack, vigorously prosecute their owners.
Can we cut the crap about, "Oh, they're no different than other breeds. It's how you train them!" Perhaps, but there is no reason to take the risk. Besides, too many such owners train them to be agressive despite what they say on camera. Spend some time at one of these dog walking parks, and you'll soon see for yourself.
And by the way, this isn't a class issue. In my walking hobby (15 cities so far), I was confronted by more loose dogs in Plymouth than the other 14 cities combined, about a dozen.