Dear Editor,
Pit bull terriers have a terrible reputation and are feared for their vicious nature. They are banned in parts of Canada and Australia.
Over the years in the UK, they have attacked people for no apparent reason. Their favourite targets seem to be small children and youngsters. Once these dogs have attacked and bitten people, they are immediately taken into custody by the authorities, then to the vet to be put down. Never are they given a reprieve, for the view is held that, once they have tasted blood, no one is safe from them.
In the UK, under the Dangerous Dogs Act, first enacted in 1991, updated in 1997, four different breeds of dogs (and their cross breeds) are restricted – the American Pit Bull Terriers, the Japanese Tosas, the Dogo Argentinos and the Brazilian Mastiffs.
One dog lover, in the defence of these animals, has said “It is important to mention the role of the owner in a dog’s behaviour…” In other words, there are no bad dogs, only bad owners (and handlers)! Try telling that to the traumatised victims of serious attacks by such dogs. It comes as a surprise to learn that in Guyana so many of the same beasts are still around after attacking and injuring people. One hopes the Forshaw Street victim recovers sufficiently to lead a productive life.
Yours faithfully,
Geralda Dennison
