Aug 15, 2006 2 min read

Let me start by saying a local ordinance cannot supercede a state law. But yet here in Fayette County some of our local officials still consider themselves above the state. Breed specific ordinances is exactly that, regulating you on what to own or not.

Some of our local municipalities are proposing and passing breed specific legislation on their own.

Pennsylvania is a state that prohibits breed specific legislation. This is an act of prejudice and is a violation of the constitution.

As dog bite statistics show, any breed of dog will bite. Local officials should focus more on implementing and enforcing non-breed specific dangerous dog laws. These laws should deem a dog dangerous based on vicious acts, not on the breed of the dog. The irresponsible owner should be held accountable for the actions of their dog, not the entire breed of canines.

These breed bans do not work. They target all dogs of a certain breed including the innocent. District judges, if these cases come before you please look into Pennsylvania’s non-breed discrimination law. Bad owners will simply move onto another breed until you say “breed ban” again.

Did you know there are 25 breeds that are commonly mistaken for pit bulls? Who’s going to be your expert and what’s their credentials for knowing all breeds of dogs? Can you tell them apart, municipality officials? Can you also say “lawsuit?”

The underlying problem is irresponsible owners, not a certain breed of dog. Has not experience taught us that? Good dangerous dog ordinances place the owner in the position of ensuring that they comply with all state and local requirements. But not local requirements superceding state law. Don’t we need stricter regulations on owners, no matter what breed?

Over the years we went from the German Shepard in the 1970’s to the Doberman in the 1980s, and then the Rottweiler in the 199’s to now the pit bull. All these dogs were targeted by breed specific prejudice. Italy passed restrictions against 92 breeds. So, if you are in Italy and want to walk your border collie, you have to have him muzzled.

We live in Pennsylvania; our state says there will be no breed discrimination.

Wake up, municipal officials.

If anyone comes to your home wanting to take your dog away please email me at begin robinmoore1961@aol.com robinmoore1961@aol.com end

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Robin Moore

East Millsboro