Breed or Bred

Recently I caught on the news that there's been a growing trend of violent attacks by dogs, especially towards children, here in Oregon.

Although dog attacks would not be a very new thing, I did find some concern in the fact that it was discussed that Oregon may, like some other states already have, ban specific breeds. One breed being debated lately due to a number of attacks associated with the breed are pitbulls.

Although many recognize that people are the ones raising certain breeds of dogs to be violent, just as some are bred for hunting, or preferred for young children. However, they turn it around into a justification to ban certain breeds.

Honestly, I can see both sides. Deep down I feel there should be more regulation on pets and ownership. Too many pets in general go uncared for, neglected, or abused, and can lead to an early death.

Licenses are needed for breeders, and the same could be said for pet owners. It seems harsh on the surface, but when hearing that animals are often killed as a result of the way their owners use them, I can't say it's not fair to those who want pets. Too many people want animals, not pets, and want to create violence.

Whether or not these recent attacks on children are a matter of the breed, how they're raised, or some provoking, accidental or not, it does bring up a good issue to the ownership of animals. Abuse and mistreatment directly harms the animal, but it can extend to a neighborhood, and be used to manipulate an otherwise gentle and loving breed into a dangerous fighter.

Though pitbulls are one of the singled out breeds to be involved in violent attacks and labeled as "dangerous", one of the past winners of best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show was also a pitbull. I do think they are a strong and potentially aggressive breed. I also feel it's how their owner puts the obvious power of the dog to use.

Smaller dogs can be just as aggressive, their little bodies and teeth just don't pack the same punch, people don't label them dangerous, even if they're more likely to bite.

Further information can be read in this article about the pitbull breed and past talks of banning them and another about a recent attack on a 7-year old.