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I
am
writing to express my sentiments with regard to the current discussion
of banning breed specific dogs. Of course the controversy will begin
as I allude to the most publicly ostracized and often mistreated
Pit Bull. Although I have never raised this particular breed, I
have witnessed first-hand their powerful tenacity when psychologically
induced fear takes reign, as well as their docile grace when raised
under a shroud of positive reinforcement and reputable breeding.
The ongoing debate triggers an emotional reaction in me as an animal
lover due to the number of questionable comments stemming from individuals
who believe outlawing Pit Bulls is in the best interest of public
safety. I realize that Pit Bull aggression can transpire with dire
consequences, as can other dog attacks, but each occurrence must
be addressed by examining the underlying causes on an individual
basis. Gradually phasing out Pit Bulls will neither lessen the number
of attacks on people, nor will the banning of any other breed deemed
dangerous by the media.
It
is staggering that recent public outcry spawned immediate results
in favour of the ban, yet animal welfare advocates continue to hit
insurmountable roadblocks as they desperately seek legislative change
to update a pathetically archaic anti-cruelty act that affords little
protection for abused animals or retribution against criminals.
The direct argument from opponents to the upgrade is to draw comparisons
to more "relevant" societal issues by redirecting the
focus to human causes. Possessing a passion for animals does not
negate one‚s desire to see an improvement in the human condition
and a utopic vision for a more humane society. Unless one works
on the frontline of a rescue organization, it is impossible to comprehend
the horrendous trauma these animals undergo. Aggression is not inherent
to the Pit Bull breed, but I have read sufficient articles and witnessed
ample evidence of Pit Bulls chained outside to trees, fences, cement
blocks without any food or shelter under unimaginable circumstances
to comprehend the psychological agony of their world. Any pack animal
would become defensive and territorial if raised in confinement
and isolation. To render matters worse, this breed is notorious
for being appallingly chained to logging equipment and forced to
endure infinite tauntings for the purpose of "training"
in preparation for the illegal blood-sport of dog fighting. North
American studies have substantiated the connection between the underground
world of gangs, drugs, gambling and dog fighting. Turn on the television,
and one can clearly see the negative portrayal of Pit Bulls as status
symbols within gangster rap videos, often confined to thick chains
and reacting viciously to the camera. This disturbing depiction
only perpetuates the cycle of violence by glamorizing the maltreatment
of animals.
I
wish the public would place more energy into supporting local animal
charities rather than putting emphasis on muzzling Pit Bulls and
fining owners for non-compliance. I challenge people to log onto
the Ontario SPCA web site and read the absolutely despicable crimes
committed against animals for a lesson in societal injustice. Proceed
to read the pitiable outcomes of the cases involved relative to
the pain inflicted. One can starve and abuse an animal in every
way imaginable in this province, yet receive an insignificant fine,
perhaps a temporary ban, but no real justice that would avenge the
suffering. Step inside an animal shelter, and one will find countless
Pit Bull crosses, each with sad stories to recount. This is how
their lives often begin. Fortunately, beautiful people with kind
hearts try to rehabilitate and place them with loving families,
even though some behavioral challenges persist.
I
want to reconcile the dilemma as to why we are not demanding a sophisticated
federal cruelty bill that will provide enforcement officers increased
ammunition to charge and prosecute offenders who neglect and abuse
animals under their care. I suspect this could effectuate instantaneous
change in the number of Pit Bull attacks if the consequences for
animal abuse were to include substantial jail time for perpetrators.
Banishing these marginal deviants from society would make the streets
safer for everyone, while allowing Pit Bulls to walk equally among
other breeds with responsible human companions by their side.
—To
contact Cherine, please e-mail doolexa @ hotmail.com (remove spaces.)
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