A Letter to Chew on for the Weekend — 4/27/07

Below: A post from Lynn Swanbom of A Matter of Opinion, the SR Opinion Page blog

Excerpts from another entry in the pit bull conversation (the writer did not include contact information for verification):

Today when we were walking we came upon a 20 something young man and his unleashed pit bull. The pit bull immediately started to bark and get aggressive. I stopped and so did my wife. The young owner put the leash on and smiled in such a way that he appeared amused that we were a little scared. I carry a very sharp box cutter with me almost always for just such occasions, occasions that happen too often. I had it pulled out ready to slice this dog open and battle the owner too if need be.

When I heard about the person that felt threatened today and shot two pit bulls, I completely agree and understand. Every time I pass one of these “dog people” that don’t use the leash they say Hi. I feel like saying “Hi Lawbreaker.” They always say how nice their dog is. How the heck am I supposed to know that he’s nice?

By the way, I called 911 at first to report the owner. They asked me to call the Spokane animal control and I got the answering machine. I left a message but have heard nothing. You can call 911, I think, once the pit bull has your neck in its mouth.

Several of our writers have made a similar point, that certain types of owners are the ones who own certain types of dogs. Some will take it as far as saying that for some reason most pit bull owners are irresponsible and dangerous.

Is this true? If so, is a citywide ban the answer or should owners like the one described be held responsible?

(Photo by Jesse Tinsley, The Spokesman-Review)