In all the hubbub over the recent dog attack in Lion’s Park, the breed was misidentified as the much maligned pit bull.
While some people believed it was a pit bull terrier, it was actually a mixed breed. According to local officials, “Storm” or “Stormy” is a Boxer/Rottweiler cross. Although she might have a bit of pit bull in her, that hasn’t been confirmed.
The fact is people are quick to think the dog is a pit bull, therefore are quick to blame the breed for any wrongdoing.
I personally visited Storm and her six puppies at the pound. Storm wagged her tail and was never once aggressive to this strange new visitor with a camera. Her puppies were all over me as I was taking photographs. I actually got the feeling that Storm was relieved that her pups were taking so much interest in me because it gave her a break from motherhood. She wanted to be alone with her chew bone and would growl a warning at any pup that invaded her “me time” space.
After she finished her chew session, she sauntered over to her pups and started playing again, forgetting all about the prior scolding she gave them.
I had to be careful not to trip over these cute little sacks of energy, biting my camera bag and nipping at my trousers. And I secretly hoped they would find a good home after all was said and done.
I quickly determined that Storm was not an aggressive dog and not a pit bull, although I can see why some people might mistake her for one by looking at her face.
The woman who was bitten by Storm was justified in her concerns since the dog apparently was not under control at the time. However, it stands to reason that Storm was only protecting her puppies when the victim walked by with her three dogs.
The victim made accusations against the police and bylaw enforcement officials for hiding behind rules and regulations. But what many people fail to understand is that protocols must be followed in every case, and these officials can’t invent the laws as they go. And they can’t just resolve the matter to the complainant’s satisfaction by the end of the day.
This incident was a good learning experience for everyone – dog owners, victims, the authorities . . . and journalists.
And finally, to all dog lovers – please be responsible and keep your pet on leash and under control at all times. Your dog might be the friendliest canine on the planet, but strangers don’t know that.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
Storm. (Lyonel Doherty photo)
