BSL, which stands for Breed Specific Legislation, aims to weed-out vicious and malicious dogs by banning certain breeds, mostly pit bulls. Often, dogs are snatched up from their loving owners, after not having done anything to warrant being arrested. This just happened in the cases of Lennox and Wicca, who sadly, were both euthanized for no other reason that the way they looked. And now, another innocent pit bull, Dre, is fighting for his life in Colorado. Click here to read his story.
photo: Animal Theory
But the laws are inherently flawed and aren’t effective, for a few reasons. It gives otherwise extremely loyal and loving breeds like pitties and rottweilers a bad name, causing more intolerance and less chance of rescue from animal shelters which are literally overflowing with these types of large dogs. Also, it very costly and drains resources from Animal Control departments, thereby taking money and manpower away from helping other animals in emergency situations. And it does nothing to train owners who possess these so-called these types of dogs on how to handle their pets. After all, the ultimate responsibility of a dog’s actions lies with its owner.
The ASPCA reports that areas with active BSL laws don’t have a lower incidence of dog bites because of the regulation. Instead the APSCA indicates that cities and states which enforce anti-tethering, dog licensing, and at large/leash laws, and open low-cost spay and neuter clinics actually protect the public more and show a decrease in the number of dog attacks. The animal welfare organization also supports Dangerous Dog/Reckless Owner Laws, rather than BSL. It makes sense. Click here to read more and see how you can help.
As the proud mom of rottie, shepherd, and pit bull mixes, I say “End BSL (BullSh*t Legilslation)!”
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