Proposed Ontario Pit Bull Ban

Honourable Michael Bryant, M.P.P.
Attorney General of the Province of Ontario
Toronto, Ontario

Dear Minister,

The Canada Safety Council is aware that the Ontario government, in the aftermath of a serious incident, is considering a province-wide ban on pit bull dogs, which you have described as nothing less than four-legged “dangerous weapons.”

Breed bans are highly controversial. As a preventive measure they may or may not work in the short term. In the long term, they do not address the underlying problems. Authorities should beware that breed bans may provoke people who want aggressive dogs to seek out other breeds or animals, and breed or train them to become vicious. Dogs trained or bred to attack are often owned by drug dealers, criminal groups, and violent or irresponsible individuals who wish to intimidate others. These dogs — and their owners — present a serious threat to community safety.

Currently, Canada has no national data on canine population, dog-related deaths and injuries, or which breeds cause the most harm. Based on available statistics, the Canada Safety Council estimates there may be about 460,000 dog bites annually. Some are very serious, requiring extensive surgery, and there have been fatalities. Statistics do show that certain breeds, including those in the pit bull family, are more likely to be involved in violent attacks. However, dangerous dogs may exist in any breed or breed cross. Many factors contribute to a dog’s temperament and behaviour, not the least of which is responsible ownership.

Good animal control by-laws, well enforced, are part of the solution. Breed bans are a reactionary measure. They should not be used as a quick fix. The solution lies in a combination of effective animal control measures, reputable breeders, responsible owners and public education, backed up with enforcement and based on reliable data.

The attached document, Reducing the Incidence of Dog Bites and Attacks: Do Breed Bans Work?, dated March 2004, from the National Companion Animal Coalition, will be of interest.

It is high time irresponsible dog owners faced real consequences. For far too long, a person whose dog(s) mauls someone is subject to insignificant penalties, such as a fine or an order to confine or destroy them. Vicious dogs are the product of irresponsible owners. Criminal negligence charges must be laid against owners in cases of vicious dog attacks. Horrific dog maulings are not isolated events. Irresponsible dog owners exhibit reckless abandon and total disregard for public safety. It’s about time they are held accountable for their actions! Civility, public safety and injury prevention are the issues at hand.

If you require more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely

Emile Therien
President, Canada Safety Council

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