Sunday, March 8, 2009

Facing BSL with american pitbulls as well as all breeds of dogs

I must admit that I never expected it but the dreaded day came were we would actually have to face BSL. I remember very distinctively picking up a copy of the Denver Post and turning to a page that announced that pit bull legislation was up for discussion in several Denver metro communities. As I scrolled through the listing I as struck with grief as I came across my own city on the list. Sick-hearted at the thought of my own dog’s welfare was at stake, I had no choice but to call my wife with the sad news. It is truly a gut-wrenching feeling to think that a loyal member of your own family may be taken from you. At first I felt depressed, then I became angry that a handful of people on a council could decide my pet’s fate. For a brief few moments I even felt a bit of shame come over me for owning a dog that seems to be on everyone’s bad list; However, my common sense fortunately returned and I realized that I needed to remain strong and remain positive out the wonderful breed that I chose to have for a pet.

Recently, the city of Denver has been on a record breaking pace to banish pit bulls from within its jurisdiction. Following in its steps has been a number of cities within its suburbs. Although not enforcing an all out ban like Denver, a number of these cities are placing heavy restrictions or future bans on pit bulls. It seems that there has taken place in the metro area of Denver a pit bull type hysteria or phobia. A domino effect scenario has taken place following Denver’s ban where as other communities feel pressured into addressing the issue. The whole state of Colorado has become a hotbed issue for pit bull discussion. I only hate to think of all the negative publicity this sad affair is bringing this otherwise beautiful state.

Faced with the realization that BSL was coming fast down the pipeline, we had to decide what to do. The options were to do nothing and hope for the best or do something that might make a small difference. Doing nothing was totally out of the question, even though it would be the easiest thing to do, so I began discussing with my wife how we could make a difference. The question was what could we do?