ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, August 29, 1996 TAG: 9608290051
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-1 EDITION: METRO
COLUMN: What's On Your Mind?
SOURCE: RAY REED
Q: In view of two recent news reports about pit bull dogs that had to be shot by police officers, I wonder if I need to be concerned if one of my neighbors buys a pit bull?
G.D., Blacksburg
A: Posing this question to people who really know about dogs often brought these responses:
"What's a pit bull?" Or, "There's no such breed."
The name creates an image in our minds, but the animal's appearance has little to do with what you're really asking, which is: Is that dog dangerous?
The answer usually is found in three key things: the dog's behavior, the way people have treated it, and the care it gets from its owner.
If the dog lunges at the fence or gate with its fangs bared when people approach, assume that it's dangerous.
If it runs to the gate and barks, don't assume anything - either that the dog is vicious or that it's safe to turn your back on it. Speak kindly to the dog and see if it calms down a bit.
The next best move probably is to talk to the animal's owner. Find out how long he or she has had it, and observe the owner's relationship with the dog.
If the animal has a "record" of complaints, you may be able to learn something by calling your local animal control officers or the local humane society.
These authorities may offer a warning if one seems appropriate. They probably cannot share information from specific complaints because of privacy laws.
These tips apply for any dog, not just those with broad chests and big, powerful jaws.
"Pit bull" is a term that probably stems from illegal dog fights. It has also been perpetuated by the media.
"We do not recognize the breed," said the American Kennel Club in New York.
"There's no such breed," said Fred T. Miller, president of United Kennel Club in Kalamazoo, Mich., which does recognize a breed called the American pit bull terrier, dating back to 1898.
"People will call any mixed breed a pit bull," Miller said.
Currently, the two breeds with the worst reputation for biting are Rottweilers and cocker spaniels, he said.
Dogs that were originally a cross of bulldog and English terrier gave rise to the breed now called American pit bull terrier, and another recognized by the American Kennel Club, which calls it an American Staffordshire terrier.
Have a question about something that might affect other people, too? Something you've come across and wondered about? Call us at 981-3118. Or, e-mail RayR@Roanoke.Infi.Net. Maybe we can find the answer.
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