THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Monday, February 10, 1997 TAG: 9702080009
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A8 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 28 lines
It has come to my attention that we in Virginia are joining the forces of other states to label as ``dangerous'' certain dog breeds.
I have owned 14 dogs of various breeds. Some of those are now considered dangerous. It used to be the German shepherd; then came the Doberman, the pit bull, the Rottweiler and the Akita. My prediction for 1997-2000 is the boxer. It's the new ``dog to have.''
There are no bad dog breeds, only bad dog owners. Any dog can become a ``bad or dangerous dog'' in the hands of ignorance. To some people, their dog is an extension of their hostility. In such hands, Lassie could become a ``dangerous killer.'' Didn't we all love ``Peaty,'' the pit bull in ``The Little Rascals''?
Legislation should be passed to make all dog owners, of all breeds, responsible pet owners. Basic obedience training should be part of the ownership/licensing requirement. The American Kennel Club has a wonderful training program called ``AKC Canine Good Citizen.''
Please, if you have ever owned a dog, don't be fooled by legislation that would turn ``man's best friend'' into an outlawed criminal.
JOANNA BENKA
Virginia Beach, Feb. 2, 1997