In light of the recent ruling by a Maryland Court of Appeals that found pit bulls are an inherently dangerous breed, a local veterinarian says pit bull owners should focus on keeping their dogs happy and healthy, and take the time to properly train them.
Maryland is the only state that officially categorizes pit bulls as categorically dangerous. The ruling means plaintiffs in civil lawsuits don't have to prove the animal's prior violent behavior for the owner to be held liable for damages.
"It is difficult to condemn an entire group due to certain individuals' actions ... Pitts can be fabulous family dogs, but just as with any breed, you have to put the time and effort in to train your pets to live harmoniously with those in your home, and those outside your home," says Alexandria veterinarian Dr. Katy Nelson.
4 comments:
Amen. Close minded jerks.
MD is the only state than singles out this breed, however almost all the other states have the law in place already that ALL DOGS no matter the breed are inherently dangerous.
It just so happened to be in MD that an overwhelming number of serious dog bites ended up in court over the dog owners refusal to pay for injuries. The 2 higher MD Courts saw it over and over, hence their decision.
Any anger should be directed at dog owners who do not own up to their responsibility which is to pay for any damage your dog does whether it's property damage or an injury to a human or another animal.
Just got a letter today stating that I cannot renew my rent agreement in August if I still have a Pitt Bull or a breed mixed with Pitt... My best friend... or my home... What's fair about that? Shouldn't there be some form of release of liability to cover the landowner in the case of a problem? No, just do away with some of the best pets/friends there are. Way to go Maryland...
What's next? Gender legislation? I thought we have worked for so long to abolish this kind of thinking...
Gotta go, house shopping in this economy, thanks to all...
It's a common sense and statistical thing.These dogs are more likely to cause severe bodily harm to people without provocation.My next door neighbor has a pit that vists me often and is one of the happiest and friendliest dogs I have ever known.Unfortunately,many people either train these dogs to be mean or give them no training or love and they can be a menace to innocent citizens.I agree with the legislation for this reason.If you have a pit bull as a pet and it causes harm to someone you should be responsible for medical bills and pain and suffering.The real unjustice here is that the many have to take responsibility for the negligent few.
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