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Pacific Salt saves my dog from being mauled to death...
- Thread starter Ming65
- Start date
this is my last post on this matter, so jill please respond so you can have the last word,
anyway, if i have a dog that i have to worry about it if it roams around or whatever, if i have to worry if its going to kill a kid just because its loose, if i have to worry if its going to maim maw and paw kettle and tear out paws liver and chew on maws pelvic bone then simply put, thats not a dog to have period.................................no discussion.
im going to pose a question to you jill, you can answer it or not, but i think the answer will be very telling about your character and "dog handling abilities", and dont say oh it will never happen because i absolutly wont let it.
here it is.
be honest now.
first off i dont know what kind of community you live in, sparsly populated, rural, or a million people. really tho that part dont matter.
if you lived near a park where kids played and other pets played and your dog got loose, free as a bird loose, for a couple of hours, what would be the first thing that came into your mind upon finding out the dog was loose? how would you feel? would you be concerned for the kids? would even a shred of doubt enter your mind that somebody got hurt because of it? even just a shred.
now you can answer truthfully or snowball yourself, i dont care. that part is up to you and what you can live with.
oh and btw, i think the next "bad pit" i have to shoot, i will dedicate it to you.
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MY pit bull is not human aggressive, little kids pet her all the time. She is not animal aggressive as well and when out can be introduced to strange dogs that aren't aggressive towards her no problem. Its all in the way they are raised and handled. If you bothered to watch "the Dog Whisperer" you'd see that all your fears and ideas are so much Bull CRap. Pits are just dogs and the owner can make the difference in any dog. And yes I don't care if a law abiding citizen has a full auto rifle because many do and they are legal if you want it bad enough to buy the permit for it every year, many people I know have fully auto rifles. They don't pose any threat to me at all. Calling people "wankers" i'd say you are from England or an Aussie so I see how you'd be all for breed bans.
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Breed Bans
BSL: A group of laws that bans particular breeds, usually pit bulls (a type of dog, not a breed) and sometimes Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Akitas, Dobermans, Chow Chows, and a few others. These laws are usually passed after several attacks by a particular breed so that city councils can assure citizens they are �doing something� about a voter concern.
But breed bans don't work. They target all dogs of a breed -- the innocent as well as the guilty; are difficult to enforce; and do not end the use of guardian dogs by criminals. If pit bulls in their various incarnations are banned, drug dealers and other felons switch to another breed or mix. In the meantime, the ill-tempered terrier mix that bites the hand that feeds it and the poorly-bred purebred that attacks the neighborhood children pose a far greater danger to people than the obedience-trained American Staffordshire Terrier that is a registered therapy dog but cannot step foot inside the city.
Far better than breed-specific bans are strict laws to control aggressive dogs of any breed or mix. Known as generic vicious dog laws, they put restrictions on the ownership of dogs that pose a danger to people, restrictions such as confinement in locked, escape-proof kennels while outdoors on the owner's property; muzzles when the dog is off the property; and purchase of a liability insurance policy.
Source: Dog owner's guide
BSL: A group of laws that bans particular breeds, usually pit bulls (a type of dog, not a breed) and sometimes Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Akitas, Dobermans, Chow Chows, and a few others. These laws are usually passed after several attacks by a particular breed so that city councils can assure citizens they are �doing something� about a voter concern.
But breed bans don't work. They target all dogs of a breed -- the innocent as well as the guilty; are difficult to enforce; and do not end the use of guardian dogs by criminals. If pit bulls in their various incarnations are banned, drug dealers and other felons switch to another breed or mix. In the meantime, the ill-tempered terrier mix that bites the hand that feeds it and the poorly-bred purebred that attacks the neighborhood children pose a far greater danger to people than the obedience-trained American Staffordshire Terrier that is a registered therapy dog but cannot step foot inside the city.
Far better than breed-specific bans are strict laws to control aggressive dogs of any breed or mix. Known as generic vicious dog laws, they put restrictions on the ownership of dogs that pose a danger to people, restrictions such as confinement in locked, escape-proof kennels while outdoors on the owner's property; muzzles when the dog is off the property; and purchase of a liability insurance policy.
Source: Dog owner's guide
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The Pit Bull immediately strikes one as being a dog of power, passion, and undying willingness. The brick-like head, which is especially broad between the cheeks (to house the powerful jaws), is carried upon a thickly muscled, well-defined neck. The neck runs into a deep, thick, well-sprung chest. The American Pit Bull is a very muscular, stocky, yet agile dog which is extremely strong for his size. The ears are generally cropped, though this is optional. Docked tails are not accepted by the UKC or the ADBA. The eyes are round, and any color is acceptable. The teeth should form a scissors bite. Its coat is made up of thick, short, shiny hair. All colors are admissible. The tail tapers to a point.
Temperament
That sly smile, those determined eyes, that unwaning pleasure to please... the mere quality and characteristics of the APBT have evoked more human emotional, rational, and irrational response than any other breed that exists today. By no means are these dogs people-haters or people-eaters. Their natural aggressive tendencies are toward other dogs and animals, not people. However if they are properly socialized they will not even be aggressive with them. These are truly quality companions for quality owners only! The American Pit Bull Terrier is a good-natured, amusing, extremely loyal and affectionate family pet, which is good with children and adults. Almost always obedient, it is always eager to please its master. It is an extremely courageous and intelligent guard dog that is very full of vitality. Highly protective of his owners and the owner's property, it will fight an enemy to the death. It is usually very friendly, but has an uncanny ability to know when it needs to protect and when everything is okay. The American Pit Bull Terrier can be willful and needs a firm hand. They are generally okay with other pets if they are raised with them from puppy hood. For the most part they are very friendly, but not recommended for most people. Excellent with children in the family, they have a high pain tolerance and will happily put up with rough child play. As with any breed, they should not be left alone with unfamiliar children. Originally used as fighting dogs, the powerful American Pit Bull may go for the throat of strange dogs. A minimum of training will produce a tranquil, obedient dog. Socialize very thoroughly when young to combat aggressive tendencies and be sure to keep the dog under control when other dogs are present. It has given outstanding results as a guardian of property, but is at the same time esteemed as a companion dog. When properly trained and socialized, this is a very good dog and a great family companion. Unfortunately, some choose to promote the fighting instinct in the breed, giving it a bad name.
Height, weight
Height: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)
Weight: 22 -110 pounds (10-50 kg)
Please Note: The APBT ranges in size from 22 pounds to 110 pounds (rare), with the most common being between 35 - 55 pounds (16-25 kg.), in fact the original APBT's were between 20 - 40 pounds (9-18 kg.) and were bred small for their main purpose, fighting, These dogs are varying from small to extra large. A very common misconception is that APBT's are muscle bound (viscous) hulks that weigh in around 85 pounds (39 kg.) and this is generally not the majority, Most of the APBT's that Are that large have been crossed with another breeds.
Health Problems
A generally healthy breed, although some are prone to hip dysplasia, hereditary cataracts, allergies to grass and congenital heart disease.
Living Conditions
Pits will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are very active indoors and will do alright without a yard provided they get enough exercise. Prefers warm climates.
Exercise
American Pit Bull Terriers must have plenty of regular exercise, but keep them leashed in public to avoid fights with other dogs.
Life Expectancy
About 12 years
Litter Size
Average of 5 - 10 puppies
Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush, and bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. A rub with a piece of toweling or chamois will make the coat gleam. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
Developed from the Bull and Terrier types of yesteryear, the American Pit Bull Terrier comes from an indisputable history of pit-fighting. The breed's tenacity and accompanying strength are unmatched in the canine world. As rich and captivating as the breed's history is, the Pit Bull's future is more worthy of commentary. Some proponents of the breed argue that this breed is the original bulldog of the past. Old prints and woodcarvings show reason to believe this. They show dogs that look exactly like the breed today, doing things the dog is still capable of doing. For more information on this theory you can read books by Richard F Stratton. The APBT, as registered by the UKC, is an individual breed of dog and does not refer to just any ill-bred, mindless warrior-type mongrel. At one time, the Pit Bull was a much loved, trustworthy companion. People who chose to train these dogs to fight are chiefly responsible for the banning and witch-hunting that has been sweeping the U.S. The media, however, should not go unmentioned, for it is also responsible for escalating isolated incidences in a relentless and attention-getting way. In a lot of cases when the media is reporting about a Pit Bull attacking, it is indeed not even a Pit Bull at all, but a mixed breed of some sort, or another bull breed all together. In fact, one time there was a report on KYW news in Philadelphia about two Pit Bulls attacking a person. I called the news station and asked if they knew the dogs were in fact a purebred American Pit Bull Terriers, or another bull breed of some sort, or a mutt for that matter. They told me they did not know, I would have to call the police station to verify that information. I asked them how they could report something that they were not sure of. They had no answer for me and they were not sure of the dog's breed. Even after admitting that to me on the phone, they kept calling it a Pit Bull. The Pit Bull's future has been perhaps irreparably undone and everyone is to blame except the dog itself. This very loyal dog is too set on pleasing his owner, and ironically this is the root of his own undoing. Accompanying this need to please are remarkable abilities of all kinds. Jack Dempsy, Teddy Roosevelt and Jack Johnson are just a few people who have owned Pit Bulls. Pit Bulls excel in practically every canine task including herding, guarding, hunting, policing, cart pulling and ratting. A Pit Bull, named Banddog Dread, holds more canine working titles than ANY other breed. The owner's name is Diane Jessup and you can reference her book, "The Working Pit Bull." It tells you all of Dread's accomplishments. These dogs are truly capable of many tasks. The difference between Pits and American Staffordshire Terriers is a difficult one. Even breeders can't agree. The main difference is the bloodline. Amstaffs are show dogs and dog fighters won't use dogs with Amstaff blood. As time progresses there will be more of a difference. Many are duel registered as Amstaffs with the AKC and Pits with the UKC.
Group
Mastiff
Recognition
UKC, NKC, ADBA, CKC, APBR, APRI, ACR
UKC = United Kennel Club
NKC = National Kennel Club
ADBA = The American Dog Breeders Association Inc.
CKC = Continental Kennel Club
APBR = The American Pit Bull Registry
APRI = American Pet Registry Inc.
ACR = American Canine Registry
Temperament
That sly smile, those determined eyes, that unwaning pleasure to please... the mere quality and characteristics of the APBT have evoked more human emotional, rational, and irrational response than any other breed that exists today. By no means are these dogs people-haters or people-eaters. Their natural aggressive tendencies are toward other dogs and animals, not people. However if they are properly socialized they will not even be aggressive with them. These are truly quality companions for quality owners only! The American Pit Bull Terrier is a good-natured, amusing, extremely loyal and affectionate family pet, which is good with children and adults. Almost always obedient, it is always eager to please its master. It is an extremely courageous and intelligent guard dog that is very full of vitality. Highly protective of his owners and the owner's property, it will fight an enemy to the death. It is usually very friendly, but has an uncanny ability to know when it needs to protect and when everything is okay. The American Pit Bull Terrier can be willful and needs a firm hand. They are generally okay with other pets if they are raised with them from puppy hood. For the most part they are very friendly, but not recommended for most people. Excellent with children in the family, they have a high pain tolerance and will happily put up with rough child play. As with any breed, they should not be left alone with unfamiliar children. Originally used as fighting dogs, the powerful American Pit Bull may go for the throat of strange dogs. A minimum of training will produce a tranquil, obedient dog. Socialize very thoroughly when young to combat aggressive tendencies and be sure to keep the dog under control when other dogs are present. It has given outstanding results as a guardian of property, but is at the same time esteemed as a companion dog. When properly trained and socialized, this is a very good dog and a great family companion. Unfortunately, some choose to promote the fighting instinct in the breed, giving it a bad name.
Height, weight
Height: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)
Weight: 22 -110 pounds (10-50 kg)
Please Note: The APBT ranges in size from 22 pounds to 110 pounds (rare), with the most common being between 35 - 55 pounds (16-25 kg.), in fact the original APBT's were between 20 - 40 pounds (9-18 kg.) and were bred small for their main purpose, fighting, These dogs are varying from small to extra large. A very common misconception is that APBT's are muscle bound (viscous) hulks that weigh in around 85 pounds (39 kg.) and this is generally not the majority, Most of the APBT's that Are that large have been crossed with another breeds.
Health Problems
A generally healthy breed, although some are prone to hip dysplasia, hereditary cataracts, allergies to grass and congenital heart disease.
Living Conditions
Pits will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are very active indoors and will do alright without a yard provided they get enough exercise. Prefers warm climates.
Exercise
American Pit Bull Terriers must have plenty of regular exercise, but keep them leashed in public to avoid fights with other dogs.
Life Expectancy
About 12 years
Litter Size
Average of 5 - 10 puppies
Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush, and bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. A rub with a piece of toweling or chamois will make the coat gleam. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
Developed from the Bull and Terrier types of yesteryear, the American Pit Bull Terrier comes from an indisputable history of pit-fighting. The breed's tenacity and accompanying strength are unmatched in the canine world. As rich and captivating as the breed's history is, the Pit Bull's future is more worthy of commentary. Some proponents of the breed argue that this breed is the original bulldog of the past. Old prints and woodcarvings show reason to believe this. They show dogs that look exactly like the breed today, doing things the dog is still capable of doing. For more information on this theory you can read books by Richard F Stratton. The APBT, as registered by the UKC, is an individual breed of dog and does not refer to just any ill-bred, mindless warrior-type mongrel. At one time, the Pit Bull was a much loved, trustworthy companion. People who chose to train these dogs to fight are chiefly responsible for the banning and witch-hunting that has been sweeping the U.S. The media, however, should not go unmentioned, for it is also responsible for escalating isolated incidences in a relentless and attention-getting way. In a lot of cases when the media is reporting about a Pit Bull attacking, it is indeed not even a Pit Bull at all, but a mixed breed of some sort, or another bull breed all together. In fact, one time there was a report on KYW news in Philadelphia about two Pit Bulls attacking a person. I called the news station and asked if they knew the dogs were in fact a purebred American Pit Bull Terriers, or another bull breed of some sort, or a mutt for that matter. They told me they did not know, I would have to call the police station to verify that information. I asked them how they could report something that they were not sure of. They had no answer for me and they were not sure of the dog's breed. Even after admitting that to me on the phone, they kept calling it a Pit Bull. The Pit Bull's future has been perhaps irreparably undone and everyone is to blame except the dog itself. This very loyal dog is too set on pleasing his owner, and ironically this is the root of his own undoing. Accompanying this need to please are remarkable abilities of all kinds. Jack Dempsy, Teddy Roosevelt and Jack Johnson are just a few people who have owned Pit Bulls. Pit Bulls excel in practically every canine task including herding, guarding, hunting, policing, cart pulling and ratting. A Pit Bull, named Banddog Dread, holds more canine working titles than ANY other breed. The owner's name is Diane Jessup and you can reference her book, "The Working Pit Bull." It tells you all of Dread's accomplishments. These dogs are truly capable of many tasks. The difference between Pits and American Staffordshire Terriers is a difficult one. Even breeders can't agree. The main difference is the bloodline. Amstaffs are show dogs and dog fighters won't use dogs with Amstaff blood. As time progresses there will be more of a difference. Many are duel registered as Amstaffs with the AKC and Pits with the UKC.
Group
Mastiff
Recognition
UKC, NKC, ADBA, CKC, APBR, APRI, ACR
UKC = United Kennel Club
NKC = National Kennel Club
ADBA = The American Dog Breeders Association Inc.
CKC = Continental Kennel Club
APBR = The American Pit Bull Registry
APRI = American Pet Registry Inc.
ACR = American Canine Registry
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Just out of curiousity, so my apologies if it has already been mentioned. Why not go after the owners and breeders of backyard-bred dogs? If the breeders of such dogs are willing to sell them to anyone, why not stop them before they get the chance to sell them in the first place? Most owners whom are looking for a particular well-bred breed are willing to do the research and spend the money for that consistnet temperment. They aren't the ones getting dogs from puppy mills or from the first ad they see in the paper. I was told when I was looking for a particular breed that it would be unlikely I'd find one in the papers, but would have to go the local kennel club to get a list of recognized breeders. Not a perfect system, but better than the alternative. I don't have a problem with certain breeds being closely watched and even registered as they are more or less loaded weapons. It seems to me that owners of these breeds are so worried about having them banned but aren't always willing to have any restrictions placed on them as some sort of measure of prevention.
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I think all people owning any animals as pets should have to be held responsible for taking proper care of them. There's just too many people that get a pet and then can't be bothered with caring for them afterwards. So the cute little puppy that the kids wanted so badly grows up and the kids lose interest, how many of those unfortunate dogs do you see tied to a small bare dog house 24/7, living in a mud hole barely kept alive? I don't think a lot of people need any animal for a pet, let alone a powerful dog they are going to neglect. But the way the law is little positive is ever done about seeing to an animals welfare. Certain breeds don't need to be closely watched or registered, but people that own all dogs should be held responsible for the dog being trained and cared for. There's just way too many breeds of dogs that can be a mence when uncaring ignorant people own them, to single out just a few of them. So ideally all people owning animals as pets should have to take care of them and see to it that they aren't a problem. That may be the way it is someday but I'd say not in my lifetime.
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DANGEROUS DOGS
A Biting Look at Man's Best Friend
Cary Silver
The following article by Cary Silver speaks eloquently to the need for a lifetime commitment by responsible, competent dog owners to properly train and socialize their dogs. In concert with the publisher's strongly held personal opinion, this article substantiates the adage "there are no problem dogs; just problem owners.
Peter and Dani Rusnak loved their two dogs; a black poodle namedSheridan and a black labrador called Jake. Each summer, thecouple took the pair on long, scenic romps along Lake Michigannear their home in Evanston, Illinois, U.S.A., and to CentralStreet to mingle with shoppers and to sample croissants. (Yes,even the dogs got a taste.)
"Jake is so laid back, so good-natured," says Peter. "He'll putup with almost anything." Sheridan, on the other hand, wassomewhat temperamental, but considered very intelligent andtrustworthy. "They were both just great dogs," says Dani.
No wonder the couple was shocked when one of their pets bit their18-month-old daughter, Sallyan, in the face. She required 10stitches above her eye. "We heard the dog growl, and then sawblood everywhere," recalls Peter. Sallyan needed plastic surgeryto repair the damage to her eyelid. "We were lucky she didn'tlose an eye," he adds.
The culprit: amiable Jake, the dog they would have least expectedto make such an attack.
The couple quickly found a new home for the labrador; one witholder children. "It was hard to part with Jake," says Peter. "Wecouldn't believe he would hurt a child."
Unfortunately, this scenario occurs far too often throughout theworld. Usually the canine culprit is not a snarling stray, butthe adoring family pet. And the victim is generally not a haplessjogger, but a neighborhood child.
It's a message that is being repeated in different languagesaround the world: the necessity of responsible dog ownership.
Actually, Sallyan was more fortunate than many children. In 1979,eight-year-old Frankie Scarbrough of Hollywood, Florida, U.S.A.,made national headlines when he was attacked by a pit bullterrier who literally ripped off his face. For months, he had towear a latex mask to protect his lacerated skin from infection.Now 25, he has undergone numerous surgeries to reconstruct hisnose, ears, and skin.
In Sydney, N.S.W., Australia, a pet pit bull terrier killed atwo-month-old infant while his mother was doing household chores.She had left the child alone with the dog "only for a moment."
In 1994, four-year-old Tiffany Pak of Fairfax, Virginia, U.S.A.,was playing in her backyard when she was attacked by herneighbor's Rottweiler, who jumped the fence. The girl sustained100 puncture wounds and required 300 stitches.
In Sheung Shui, South China, family members watched helplessly aseight-year-old Liu Wing-yan was attacked and killed by a GreatDane in January 1994. The girl bled to death after being bittenin the neck.
These reports are a chilling testament to what has become agrowing health concern throughout the world. The Centers forDisease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia,estimate that a total of 4.5 million dog bites occur each year inthe U.S alone, with more than 756,000 cases requiring medicalattention.
A well-trained, neuteredRottweiler will probably make a much better pet than a poorlysocialized dachshund.
While there is no international tracking of dog bites, manycountries including Australia, Canada, Denmark, England, Hungary,and the United States have implemented restrictions regarding"dangerous dogs" to stem the attacks.
Dog bites are a major child-health problem in the United States,exceeding the total number of cases of measles, whooping cough,and mumps each year. Dog attacks are also one of the most commoncauses of severe facial lacerations in children. Each year,approximately 44,000 facial bites are reported in the U.S.;16,000 of them requiring plastic surgery.
Yet despite the immense number of physical and psychologicalscars from dog bites, the public seems largely unaware of aserious problem that could exist; literally; in its own backyard.
"Many people have been frightened by the growing media reports ofdog attacks," says Randall Lockwood, vice president of traininginitiatives for the Humane Society of the United States. "Butmost don't see their own dog as a threat."
Dogs may be "man's best friend," but they may also bite the handthat feeds them. Lockwood, considered one of the country'sforemost authorities on dog behavior and dog bites, hasinvestigated more than 3,000 dog bite cases, including 150 fatalattacks.
This is truly a serious public health problem that requires much greater attention and investment in resources.
"Dog attacks are occurring at epidemic levels," he says. "This istruly a serious public health problem that requires much greaterattention and investment in resources."
The financial and emotional costs of dog bites are staggering. In1984, an 11-year-old girl was awarded a record sum of more than$1 million for physical and mental trauma caused by a dog bite,which has left her permanently disfigured. According to U.S.insurance industry estimates, $1 billion in dog-bite liabilityclaims were paid in 1994. State Farm Mutual Automobile InsuranceCo., the nation's largest home and auto insurer, paid out $58.7million for dog-bite claims that year.
This is not a dog problem; it's a people problem. The major cause of dog bites is irresponsible owners.
But the cost in pain and suffering is even greater. "The tragic part is that these cases are almost 100 percent preventable,"says Lockwood. "This is not a dog problem; it's a peopleproblem. The major cause of dog bites is irresponsible owners."
The Humane Society has dispelled many of the common mythsassociated with dangerous dogs. The typical perpetrator isusually the family pet; not a stray; and the victims are usuallychildren under the age of 10. Most bites occur while the dog isleashed, fenced, chained, or indoors. Another revealingstatistic: nearly one half of all attacks occur on the street,sidewalk, or alley adjacent to the dog owner's property.
"You are most likely to be bitten by your own dog, or a dog ownedby a friend or neighbor," says Lockwood.
Two other groups most susceptible to attacks are the elderly andthe proverbial postman. In 1994, dogs attacked 2,782 U.S. mailcarriers making their rounds. The Humane Society and U.S. PostalService have joined forces to sponsor "National Dog BitePrevention Week," a public information campaign heldeach June. Last year, the postal service spent $15 million tomail educational material to 125 million households with adviceon how to prevent dog bites.
The other major indicator is whether the dog has been properly socialized and trained.
Over the years, a spate of sensational media reports has focusedon two breeds; the pit bull terrier and the Rottweiler. While itis true that these breeds can be aggressive, CDC statistics showthat the best predictor of whether a dog will bite is whether ithas been neutered. An unsterilized male dog is three times morelikely to bite than a neutered animal. The other major indicatoris whether the dog has been properly socialized and trained.
It's not the breed that makes a dog dangerous, it's the attitude of the owners. . .
"It's not the breed that makes a dog dangerous, it's the attitudeof the owners," says Lockwood. "A well-trained, neuteredRottweiler will probably make a much better pet than a poorlysocialized dachshund."
Since large dogs are capable of bone-snapping jaw pressures of200 to 450 pounds (91 to 204 kilograms) per square inch (6.45square centimeters), it is critical that they be properlysocialized and trained. (Pit bulls, renowned for their courageand aggressiveness, can clamp down with steel-trap jaws capableof exerting nearly 1,500 pounds [680 kilograms] of pressure;several times that of a German shepherd).
"It is important to set limits with a larger dog, because theycause more damage when they bite," says Lockwood. "Some of thesmaller breeds can be just as aggressive, but they will tear upan ankle instead of someone's face."
It is important to set limits with a larger dog, because they cause more damage when they bite...
In an effort to take the bite out of escalating costs, the U.Sinsurance industry has listed nine breeds that liability claimsshow are at "high risk" for biting, and may require additional homeowner's insurance: American Staffordshire terrier, boxer, pitbull terrier, chow chow, Doberman pinscher, German shepherd,Great Dane, Rottweiler, and Siberian husky.
But Lockwood points out that the overall number of bite cases hasremained constant over the years; only the breeds have changed."In 1974," he says, "we saw more German shepherd, collie, andcocker spaniel bites. Today it's the Rottweiler, chow, and pitbull. The dogs are a victim of their own popularity."
...the overall number of bite cases has remained constant over the years; only the breeds have changed.
One of Lockwood's major concerns is that people today are buyingdogs for the wrong reasons. A USA Today newspaper poll shows that38 percent of all households have a dog because of fear of crime;up from 20 percent in 1981.
"An increasing number of people are buying dogs as weapons,either offensive or defensive," says Lockwood. "In response tothe threat of crime, people are buying dogs for protection,rather than for companionship. That's like having a loaded gun inyour home."
The "Rambo" of the dog world is currently the Rottweiler, a once-rare breed whose popularity has increased by 70 percent inthe last five years. Originally used to herd cattle and pull milkcarts in Germany, the dog almost went extinct in the early 1900s.Today, American Kennel Club (AKC) figures show it is the secondmost popular breed in the U.S. (The labrador retriever is thefirst.) Another guard dog, the German shepherd, is third inpopularity, while the American Staffordshire terrier has doubled its numbers since 1990.
Breeding protection dogs has become big business. Advertisementsabound for the "world's ultimate guard dog" and "the perfectweapon." Many people are willing to pay as much as $1,500 for these breeds and $7,000 for professionally trained "guard dogs."Ironically, drug dealers, gang members, and gun runners have also turned to these same breeds to protect their illicit interests.
But CDC figures show that dogs may do more harm than good inprotecting the family home. "Over the last 20 years, I've studied150 fatal dog attacks," reports Lockwood. "Only one was an attackon a burglar."
If a homeowner wants protection, the Humane Society recommendsgetting an "image" or "alert dog"; one that appears intimidating and barks at strangers, but is not aggressive in nature. "This kind of dog will be just as effective in protecting property and deterring criminals," says Lockwood.
Journalists once referred to the popular expression "when dogbites man, it's not news"; but today, prime-time television hasbrought dramatic eyewitness accounts of savage dog attacks into people's living rooms. These stories often make front-page news,resulting in public panic, outrage, and million-dollar lawsuits.In response, communities in various countries are imposing what'sknown as "dangerous dog" laws, which ban or impose restrictionson vicious dogs and even on specific breeds.
In England, following a rash of pit bull terrier attacks, thegovernment implemented the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991. Somebreeds, originally bred for fighting and aggression, have been deemed "dangerous" and banned from import to the U.K. Theseinclude the American pit bull, the Japanese tosa, and two South American breeds, the argentine dogo and filas brasileiro.
Many of these ordinances have been ruled unconstitutional and are under fire from owners who feel their dogs are being unfairly singled out because of their breed.
Since the ban, British pet owners are required to have thesebreeds muzzled in public, registered, insured, tattooed, and sterilized. Owners who do not comply with these regulations risk fines and having their dogs destroyed, regardless of their behavior. Other countries with similar breed-specific bans include Australia, Denmark, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
In the U.S., some communities still require the owners of certain"high-risk breeds" to have additional liability insurance and muzzle their dogs in public. Many of these ordinances have been ruled unconstitutional and are under fire from owners who feel their dogs are being unfairly singled out because of their breed.
Most recently, the mayor of Washington, D.C., fueled the controversy by approving legislation that classifies all pitbulls and Rottweilers as "dangerous dogs," mandating that they bemuzzled and leashed in public. In addition, owners must be atleast 18 years old and have a minimum liability insurance policyof $50,000.
"Never punish the breed; punish the deed."
Nearly 300 communities in the U.S. have implemented "dangerous dog" laws that do not single out specific breeds, but are more generic in nature. A popular credo of dog clubs has become:"Never punish the breed; punish the deed."
"I think it is more important to educate the public onresponsible dog ownership than to target certain breeds," saysStephanie Robinson, who tracks canine legislation issues for theAKC. "We have to address the root of the problem."
... it is more important to educate the public onresponsible dog ownership than to target certain breeds...
The author, Cary Silver, owns a three-year-old Rottweiler and is senioreditor of THE ROTARIAN.
A Biting Look at Man's Best Friend
Cary Silver
The following article by Cary Silver speaks eloquently to the need for a lifetime commitment by responsible, competent dog owners to properly train and socialize their dogs. In concert with the publisher's strongly held personal opinion, this article substantiates the adage "there are no problem dogs; just problem owners.
Peter and Dani Rusnak loved their two dogs; a black poodle namedSheridan and a black labrador called Jake. Each summer, thecouple took the pair on long, scenic romps along Lake Michigannear their home in Evanston, Illinois, U.S.A., and to CentralStreet to mingle with shoppers and to sample croissants. (Yes,even the dogs got a taste.)
"Jake is so laid back, so good-natured," says Peter. "He'll putup with almost anything." Sheridan, on the other hand, wassomewhat temperamental, but considered very intelligent andtrustworthy. "They were both just great dogs," says Dani.
No wonder the couple was shocked when one of their pets bit their18-month-old daughter, Sallyan, in the face. She required 10stitches above her eye. "We heard the dog growl, and then sawblood everywhere," recalls Peter. Sallyan needed plastic surgeryto repair the damage to her eyelid. "We were lucky she didn'tlose an eye," he adds.
The culprit: amiable Jake, the dog they would have least expectedto make such an attack.
The couple quickly found a new home for the labrador; one witholder children. "It was hard to part with Jake," says Peter. "Wecouldn't believe he would hurt a child."
Unfortunately, this scenario occurs far too often throughout theworld. Usually the canine culprit is not a snarling stray, butthe adoring family pet. And the victim is generally not a haplessjogger, but a neighborhood child.
It's a message that is being repeated in different languagesaround the world: the necessity of responsible dog ownership.
Actually, Sallyan was more fortunate than many children. In 1979,eight-year-old Frankie Scarbrough of Hollywood, Florida, U.S.A.,made national headlines when he was attacked by a pit bullterrier who literally ripped off his face. For months, he had towear a latex mask to protect his lacerated skin from infection.Now 25, he has undergone numerous surgeries to reconstruct hisnose, ears, and skin.
In Sydney, N.S.W., Australia, a pet pit bull terrier killed atwo-month-old infant while his mother was doing household chores.She had left the child alone with the dog "only for a moment."
In 1994, four-year-old Tiffany Pak of Fairfax, Virginia, U.S.A.,was playing in her backyard when she was attacked by herneighbor's Rottweiler, who jumped the fence. The girl sustained100 puncture wounds and required 300 stitches.
In Sheung Shui, South China, family members watched helplessly aseight-year-old Liu Wing-yan was attacked and killed by a GreatDane in January 1994. The girl bled to death after being bittenin the neck.
These reports are a chilling testament to what has become agrowing health concern throughout the world. The Centers forDisease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia,estimate that a total of 4.5 million dog bites occur each year inthe U.S alone, with more than 756,000 cases requiring medicalattention.
A well-trained, neuteredRottweiler will probably make a much better pet than a poorlysocialized dachshund.
While there is no international tracking of dog bites, manycountries including Australia, Canada, Denmark, England, Hungary,and the United States have implemented restrictions regarding"dangerous dogs" to stem the attacks.
Dog bites are a major child-health problem in the United States,exceeding the total number of cases of measles, whooping cough,and mumps each year. Dog attacks are also one of the most commoncauses of severe facial lacerations in children. Each year,approximately 44,000 facial bites are reported in the U.S.;16,000 of them requiring plastic surgery.
Yet despite the immense number of physical and psychologicalscars from dog bites, the public seems largely unaware of aserious problem that could exist; literally; in its own backyard.
"Many people have been frightened by the growing media reports ofdog attacks," says Randall Lockwood, vice president of traininginitiatives for the Humane Society of the United States. "Butmost don't see their own dog as a threat."
Dogs may be "man's best friend," but they may also bite the handthat feeds them. Lockwood, considered one of the country'sforemost authorities on dog behavior and dog bites, hasinvestigated more than 3,000 dog bite cases, including 150 fatalattacks.
This is truly a serious public health problem that requires much greater attention and investment in resources.
"Dog attacks are occurring at epidemic levels," he says. "This istruly a serious public health problem that requires much greaterattention and investment in resources."
The financial and emotional costs of dog bites are staggering. In1984, an 11-year-old girl was awarded a record sum of more than$1 million for physical and mental trauma caused by a dog bite,which has left her permanently disfigured. According to U.S.insurance industry estimates, $1 billion in dog-bite liabilityclaims were paid in 1994. State Farm Mutual Automobile InsuranceCo., the nation's largest home and auto insurer, paid out $58.7million for dog-bite claims that year.
This is not a dog problem; it's a people problem. The major cause of dog bites is irresponsible owners.
But the cost in pain and suffering is even greater. "The tragic part is that these cases are almost 100 percent preventable,"says Lockwood. "This is not a dog problem; it's a peopleproblem. The major cause of dog bites is irresponsible owners."
The Humane Society has dispelled many of the common mythsassociated with dangerous dogs. The typical perpetrator isusually the family pet; not a stray; and the victims are usuallychildren under the age of 10. Most bites occur while the dog isleashed, fenced, chained, or indoors. Another revealingstatistic: nearly one half of all attacks occur on the street,sidewalk, or alley adjacent to the dog owner's property.
"You are most likely to be bitten by your own dog, or a dog ownedby a friend or neighbor," says Lockwood.
Two other groups most susceptible to attacks are the elderly andthe proverbial postman. In 1994, dogs attacked 2,782 U.S. mailcarriers making their rounds. The Humane Society and U.S. PostalService have joined forces to sponsor "National Dog BitePrevention Week," a public information campaign heldeach June. Last year, the postal service spent $15 million tomail educational material to 125 million households with adviceon how to prevent dog bites.
The other major indicator is whether the dog has been properly socialized and trained.
Over the years, a spate of sensational media reports has focusedon two breeds; the pit bull terrier and the Rottweiler. While itis true that these breeds can be aggressive, CDC statistics showthat the best predictor of whether a dog will bite is whether ithas been neutered. An unsterilized male dog is three times morelikely to bite than a neutered animal. The other major indicatoris whether the dog has been properly socialized and trained.
It's not the breed that makes a dog dangerous, it's the attitude of the owners. . .
"It's not the breed that makes a dog dangerous, it's the attitudeof the owners," says Lockwood. "A well-trained, neuteredRottweiler will probably make a much better pet than a poorlysocialized dachshund."
Since large dogs are capable of bone-snapping jaw pressures of200 to 450 pounds (91 to 204 kilograms) per square inch (6.45square centimeters), it is critical that they be properlysocialized and trained. (Pit bulls, renowned for their courageand aggressiveness, can clamp down with steel-trap jaws capableof exerting nearly 1,500 pounds [680 kilograms] of pressure;several times that of a German shepherd).
"It is important to set limits with a larger dog, because theycause more damage when they bite," says Lockwood. "Some of thesmaller breeds can be just as aggressive, but they will tear upan ankle instead of someone's face."
It is important to set limits with a larger dog, because they cause more damage when they bite...
In an effort to take the bite out of escalating costs, the U.Sinsurance industry has listed nine breeds that liability claimsshow are at "high risk" for biting, and may require additional homeowner's insurance: American Staffordshire terrier, boxer, pitbull terrier, chow chow, Doberman pinscher, German shepherd,Great Dane, Rottweiler, and Siberian husky.
But Lockwood points out that the overall number of bite cases hasremained constant over the years; only the breeds have changed."In 1974," he says, "we saw more German shepherd, collie, andcocker spaniel bites. Today it's the Rottweiler, chow, and pitbull. The dogs are a victim of their own popularity."
...the overall number of bite cases has remained constant over the years; only the breeds have changed.
One of Lockwood's major concerns is that people today are buyingdogs for the wrong reasons. A USA Today newspaper poll shows that38 percent of all households have a dog because of fear of crime;up from 20 percent in 1981.
"An increasing number of people are buying dogs as weapons,either offensive or defensive," says Lockwood. "In response tothe threat of crime, people are buying dogs for protection,rather than for companionship. That's like having a loaded gun inyour home."
The "Rambo" of the dog world is currently the Rottweiler, a once-rare breed whose popularity has increased by 70 percent inthe last five years. Originally used to herd cattle and pull milkcarts in Germany, the dog almost went extinct in the early 1900s.Today, American Kennel Club (AKC) figures show it is the secondmost popular breed in the U.S. (The labrador retriever is thefirst.) Another guard dog, the German shepherd, is third inpopularity, while the American Staffordshire terrier has doubled its numbers since 1990.
Breeding protection dogs has become big business. Advertisementsabound for the "world's ultimate guard dog" and "the perfectweapon." Many people are willing to pay as much as $1,500 for these breeds and $7,000 for professionally trained "guard dogs."Ironically, drug dealers, gang members, and gun runners have also turned to these same breeds to protect their illicit interests.
But CDC figures show that dogs may do more harm than good inprotecting the family home. "Over the last 20 years, I've studied150 fatal dog attacks," reports Lockwood. "Only one was an attackon a burglar."
If a homeowner wants protection, the Humane Society recommendsgetting an "image" or "alert dog"; one that appears intimidating and barks at strangers, but is not aggressive in nature. "This kind of dog will be just as effective in protecting property and deterring criminals," says Lockwood.
Journalists once referred to the popular expression "when dogbites man, it's not news"; but today, prime-time television hasbrought dramatic eyewitness accounts of savage dog attacks into people's living rooms. These stories often make front-page news,resulting in public panic, outrage, and million-dollar lawsuits.In response, communities in various countries are imposing what'sknown as "dangerous dog" laws, which ban or impose restrictionson vicious dogs and even on specific breeds.
In England, following a rash of pit bull terrier attacks, thegovernment implemented the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991. Somebreeds, originally bred for fighting and aggression, have been deemed "dangerous" and banned from import to the U.K. Theseinclude the American pit bull, the Japanese tosa, and two South American breeds, the argentine dogo and filas brasileiro.
Many of these ordinances have been ruled unconstitutional and are under fire from owners who feel their dogs are being unfairly singled out because of their breed.
Since the ban, British pet owners are required to have thesebreeds muzzled in public, registered, insured, tattooed, and sterilized. Owners who do not comply with these regulations risk fines and having their dogs destroyed, regardless of their behavior. Other countries with similar breed-specific bans include Australia, Denmark, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
In the U.S., some communities still require the owners of certain"high-risk breeds" to have additional liability insurance and muzzle their dogs in public. Many of these ordinances have been ruled unconstitutional and are under fire from owners who feel their dogs are being unfairly singled out because of their breed.
Most recently, the mayor of Washington, D.C., fueled the controversy by approving legislation that classifies all pitbulls and Rottweilers as "dangerous dogs," mandating that they bemuzzled and leashed in public. In addition, owners must be atleast 18 years old and have a minimum liability insurance policyof $50,000.
"Never punish the breed; punish the deed."
Nearly 300 communities in the U.S. have implemented "dangerous dog" laws that do not single out specific breeds, but are more generic in nature. A popular credo of dog clubs has become:"Never punish the breed; punish the deed."
"I think it is more important to educate the public onresponsible dog ownership than to target certain breeds," saysStephanie Robinson, who tracks canine legislation issues for theAKC. "We have to address the root of the problem."
... it is more important to educate the public onresponsible dog ownership than to target certain breeds...
The author, Cary Silver, owns a three-year-old Rottweiler and is senioreditor of THE ROTARIAN.
- Joined
- Mar 13, 2006
- Messages
- 850
I have a 6.5lb baby. I love her so much it's sick. I often think about how much I'd do to protect her. She IS a part of my family, and my Parents even love the dog and refer to themselves as grandma and grandpa when they keep her. She's NEVER unattended, but my wife takes them for walks up around my parents land. There's a buttload of dogs up there and coyotes. She won't carry a pistol and she keeps loosing the pepper spray I buy her. So I did what any sensable man would do, I bought her this.
He's only 5 months old and he's 50lbs. I would like for him to top out at 85 or 90 but his dad was 110 and his mom 100. He's full breed German Shepherd Dog. He's so brilliant and he thinks the little one is his girl friend. His name is Sig. I carry a SigSauer 226. My wife carrys a sig too. lol
My little baby for reference: Dixie
He's only 5 months old and he's 50lbs. I would like for him to top out at 85 or 90 but his dad was 110 and his mom 100. He's full breed German Shepherd Dog. He's so brilliant and he thinks the little one is his girl friend. His name is Sig. I carry a SigSauer 226. My wife carrys a sig too. lol
My little baby for reference: Dixie
Esav Benyamin
MidniteSuperMod
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- Apr 6, 2000
- Messages
- 90,915
Sig will assassinate anyone threatening his little friend. Two good-looking dogs.
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- Mar 13, 2006
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- 850
why thank you.
- Joined
- Aug 3, 2004
- Messages
- 971
Yep beautiful dogs you have there!
Bungwrench
Banned
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Ming65,
I wondered if there was ever any backlash regarding this and the dog you sliced up to save your dog?
Is Puff still doing ok?
I wondered if there was ever any backlash regarding this and the dog you sliced up to save your dog?
Is Puff still doing ok?
- Joined
- Oct 22, 2002
- Messages
- 701
sorry to jump on this thread so late in the game
but wrt a sweeping ban on breeds of dogs, why not impose strict penalties on the owners who own them BUT don't keep good tabs on them?
give it a while and im pretty sure the random idiot who likes to have power on a leash will get the idea after 20 years in prison
but wrt a sweeping ban on breeds of dogs, why not impose strict penalties on the owners who own them BUT don't keep good tabs on them?
give it a while and im pretty sure the random idiot who likes to have power on a leash will get the idea after 20 years in prison
ming, glad the dog made it. I don,t like dogs but the pics of yours almost made want to get one. Almost 
.
And returning to the previous hijack,
Since when are full autos illegal?
Next you'll say that civillians can't own silencers. Jeez!!!
.And returning to the previous hijack,
Since when are full autos illegal?
Next you'll say that civillians can't own silencers. Jeez!!!
- Joined
- Nov 17, 2006
- Messages
- 1,124
who dug up this dinosaur lolz