Pitbulls Should not Be Banned

Introduction

The pitbull breed has often been associated with aggression and violence due to its history as a fighting dog. However, this essay argues against the banning of pitbulls, asserting that it is not the breed itself that is the problem, but rather irresponsible breeders and owners. The responsibility lies with owners to properly train and socialize their dogs, as any dog can exhibit aggressive behavior if not properly cared for. The essay also emphasizes the importance of purchasing pitbulls as puppies to assess their temperament and potential for aggression.

The notion of punishing "the deed and not the breed" holds true when it comes to pitbulls. It is the actions of owners who intentionally breed for aggressive traits that lead to the violent behavior often associated with the breed. Unfortunately, countless pitbulls are unjustly taken from their owners and euthanized simply because of their appearance. Previous attempts to ban pitbulls have been deemed unlawful, as animal rights organizations consistently oppose such measures and successfully challenge them in court. It is important to remember the saying, "Get a knife, get a dog, but get rid of guns." This means that it is more effective to implement stricter laws and regulations rather than resorting to extreme measures like shooting pitbulls.

In response to the concerns surrounding pitbulls, several states have implemented laws that hold pitbull owners accountable for their dogs' behavior. These measures have proven effective in promoting responsible ownership and reducing incidents of violence. Some states have even mandated that pitbull owners obtain insurance for their pets or face criminal charges. These actions ensure the safety of society by discouraging irresponsible ownership and promoting responsible training. If the issue of pitbull aggression is not addressed properly, it will result in the elimination of the gentle and loving pitbulls, leaving only the dangerous ones in society. It is crucial to recognize that there is a small group of responsible pitbull owners and a larger group of irresponsible ones, posing a significant danger to society.

Contrary to popular belief, not all pitbulls are inherently dangerous. With proper and responsible training, any dog, including pitbulls, can coexist peacefully in society. As mentioned before, the problem lies with bad and irresponsible breeders, not the breed itself. Stricter laws and regulations should be enacted to ensure that pitbull owners are competent and knowledgeable in handling and training their pets. Passing tests of competency and obtaining proper training and certifications should be requirements for owning a pitbull.

In conclusion, pitbulls should not be banned. Instead of resorting to extreme measures such as shooting pitbulls, it is more effective to hold owners accountable for their dogs' behavior. As Gail and Golad (2000) suggest, implementing generic non-breed-specific dangerous dog laws that emphasize owner responsibility can be effective in addressing the issue. Owners who fail to meet these responsibilities should face hefty fines or be prohibited from owning pitbulls, rather than banning the breed altogether. It is important to recognize that the fault lies with irresponsible and untrained owners, not the pitbulls themselves. All the evidence presented supports the argument that pitbulls should not be banned.

Work Cited

1. Monti, Dean & Gail, Gonad. "Responsible ownership the alternative to breed banning, other restrictions." American Veterinary Medical Association (2000): Web.