It’s easy to bash pit bulls, but sometimes the breed makes it too easy when they attack people in public places.
Last week a pit bull charged out of the bush in Lion’s Park and bit a lady walking her dogs. (While some officials may categorize the incident as a bite, it was an attack – a dog that bites you is attacking you.)
Granted, the dog may have been protecting its pups, but it was aggressive nonetheless and attacked a human. If the victim had not thrown her little dogs into the hedge prior to the attack, they may have suffered a grave fate – a pit bull versus a Chihuahua is no contest. We wonder what would have happened if that Good Samaritan had not have pulled the dog off the victim.
Bylaw enforcement says the pit bull in question does not have a history of biting, but it does now.
It’s true that the breed has a “bad rap.” But many will argue that it’s warranted.
There are countless incidents on record where pit bulls have attacked other dogs and humans with little or no provocation. Keep in mind there are just as many pit bulls that do not say “boo” to anyone or anything, thanks to their owners. But given the choice, would you leave your child alone with a pit pull or a border collie?
Judging from their history, pit bulls are more aggressive than most breeds. And their history is a fascinating read.
In Europe they were used to bait and control bulls as the beasts were led to slaughter. Any bulls that stepped out of line would find a powerful set of jaws clamped around its nose.
Many English towns had their own “baiting” rings where pit bulls would harass bulls for entertainment purposes. Even bears were put into the ring with these little juggernauts.
The breed was later introduced to pit fighting, where it gained most of its fame.
Many pit bull supporters will tell you that the breed is only as good as the trainer. But you can debate that until the cows come home.
Question: Should the Town of Oliver ban pit bulls in the community? We’d like to hear from you.
As far as the suggestion to have the hike and bike trail as an off-leash area, we would err on the side of caution and say it’s not a good idea. All dogs, regardless of breed, should be leashed and under control at all times in public places.
A clarification
In last week’s editorial, it was stated that a former councillor (known as Dave Mattes) criticized Public Works director Shawn Goodsell for disagreeing with council’s direction.
But Mattes did not directly criticize Goodsell, only Town staff’s “inability to come up with positive solutions.” He does note that Public Works does a great job in the community, but says staff are not part of the council debate, yet they often seem to debate the issues when it is not their role to do so.
