People are the problem, not dogs

Jun 30, 2008 Letters

DEAR EDITOR,
With the recent controversy about pit bull attacks, why don’t some owners understand that failing to enclose their dogs in a fence in a yard with a gate, or keeping their dogs on a leash, will prevent these terrible attacks on people?

Responsible ownership starts from the time your chosen breed of dog comes to live with you. Irresponsible owners are one of the major causes for all the problems any breed of dog faces today. By no means are dogs people haters or people eaters, but with the natural aggressive tendencies of some breeds, such as the pit bulls or rottweilers, it would require owners to learn to properly restrain such dogs.

As always, it is the animals that are defenceless when confronted with a charge of aggressive attacks on people, and owners do not admit their constant failure and empty don’t-care attitude to prevent their guard dogs from running loose and wild.

Pit bulls and other aggressive breeds of dogs are quality companions, but for quality owners only, who are well informed about the temperament of the breed.

A minimum of training, with certain habits of how to socialise with the good people and how to scare off the bad people, will produce an obedient dog and companion.

When our voiceless listen to commands, their ears straighten up and tails wag up and down to tell you: ‘My master, I am at your beck and call, to listen and learn, and because you take good care of me.’

In return, the owners will be able to manage and control their defenders by directing them with strict orders. All dogs are eager to learn, and willing to please and be obedient to their owners, if properly trained.

Dogs are not the problem, and people must recognise this fact. People are the problem; and until individuals stop ignoring their pets, leaving them to roam and run like wild, attacking people, then it becomes a serious issue for the law of the land. On the other hand, people become fearful of all dogs, because careless owners bring out the worst in pit bulls and every breed of dog.

Regrettably, though, is the sad fact worldwide that pit bulls pay the penalty of being destroyed because of selfish, uncaring people who undertake ownership without a clue of knowledge, and believing that only pit bulls can give them a safe haven of protection. Contrary to that theory, any breed of dog will provide security protection.

Zenobia Williams