I  WHY DEBATE WHAT THE EXPERTS HAVE ALREADY CONCLUDED?

"It seems patently obvious to me that the problems of dog aggression, dog bites, and serious human injuries will not be satisfactorily addressed by a breed specific ordinance. City authorities have to target that small group of dog owners who own vicious animals and actively enforce strong penalties (heavy fines or felony charges) against owners whose dogs are known to be dangerous, but who do not take adequate measures to protect their families or others from the dogs."

Andrew N. Rowan, Ph.D.
Director, Tufts Center for Animals
Pit Bull Seminar
Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, October 1987

"An often-asked question is what breed or breeds of dogs are most 'dangerous'? This inquiry can be prompted by a serious attack by a specific dog, or it may be the result of media-driven portrayals of a specific breed as 'dangerous.' Although this is a common concern, singling out 1 or 2 breeds for control can result in a false sense of accomplish-ment. Doing so ignores the true scope of the problem and will not result in a responsible approach to protecting a community's citizens. Dog bit statistics are not really statistics, and they do not give an accurate picture of dogs that bite."

A Community Approach to Dog Bite Prevention
Task force on Canine Aggression and Humane-Canine Interactions
Journal of American Veterinary Medicine Association, June 1, 2001
(This task force included representatives of the following organization)
American Veterinary Medical Assn. Executive Board
American Academy of Pediatrics
American College of Emergency Physicians
Professional Liability Insurance Trust
American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
American Medical Association
National Animal Control Association
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Humane Society of the United States

II   WHAT CAN WE CONCLUDE FOR OURSELVES?

Sound dogs, whatever the breed, with responsible owners, make good companions. The American Temperament Test Society (as of December 2000) reports that American Pit Bull Terriers scored above the average of all dogs tested. (The test simulates a casual walk through a park or neighborhood where everyday life situations are encountered.)

III   WHAT DECISION DO WE REALLY HAVE TO MAKE?

Any organization must make a realistic assessment of its resources (staff, facility, and financial capacity) in light of its mission and of its community's needs. It should help the dogs it can, and when it can't, should make sure not to further victimize dogs that must be turned away.

Fad breed dogs will always present special challenges to the sheltering community. The breed may change, but the problem will remain.

Adopters must become familiar with the breed and recognize and appreciate its virtues and challenges, while honestly evaluating their desire and their ability to provide an appropriate life time home. When you adopt an American Pit Bull Terrier you have an obligation to the reputation of the breed.