The Pitbull continues to be targeted by many because of its reputation that is most often the result of uneducated and careless owners. As the most misunderstood breed of dog, many areas place a ban on the ownership of these animals due to a hand full of issues. Such is the case in Miami where there is a Pitbull ban. Efforts are being made to reverse the ban.
Miami-Dade Commissioner wants to end 30-year Pitbull ban
Back in 1989, a young girl was attacked by a Pitbull dog, setting off a national crackdown against this dog breed. A ban was then implemented in Miami-Dade, stirring up a battle among other Pitbull owners and animal activists.
The Commissioner stated that it did not matter whether it was a German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman pincher or a Pitbull. If the animal is not raised correctly, any breed can be dangerous. Although he implemented a ban against the dog in Miami, he is now trying to reverse that ban. The argument with him, other activists and locals is that the ban was blaming the breed as a whole for any wrong doings and attacks instead of the owners for the hostile behavior.
Misconceptions about the Pitbull
Pitbull dogs are often bred and trained to fight, leading to their bad reputation. The ban of the breed is to restrict the Pitbull as a whole to prevent attacks, saying that all Pitbulls are dangerous and will attack.
A pediatric surgeon believes that Pitbulls and children do not mix well even though years ago they were known as the nanny dog. It is again a reflection of the pet owner and not the breed.
On a presidential level, the White House has also commented on the breed, saying that it is “often a waste of public resources.” Studies over the years, however, argues that dog bites and attacks span all breeds of dog and needs to be handled in a comprehensive manner without singling out one or two dog breeds.
This process can result in a false sense of success while ignoring the real scope of the problem, which is protecting the community as a whole. Focusing on one breed and Pitbull restrictions leave fewer resources and time to pursue dangerous dogs. The 13 members of the County Commission have the authority to vote against the existing law and reverse the current Pitbull ban. It is not the animal but the owners that need to be responsible for their dogs, no matter the breed.
