Calls for a pit bull ban following Wednesday’s attack that left a woman dead is garnering backlash among animal lovers and pet owners.
Among the proponents of a Quebec-wide ban are members of Christiane Vadnais’ family.
On Sunday, the SPCA held its annual Walk Against Animal Cruelty, which attracted owners with dogs of all shapes and sizes. Many said they would oppose such a ban and blamed aggression on negligent owners.
“I adopted a pit bull almost five years and it was the perfect match because I considered her behaviour, her needs and my needs,” said Josee Dandurand of her dog Juju. “She loves humans more than anything else.”
Dandurand added that she thinks pit bull owners should take courses on how to train their dogs.
While the issue of dog bans is currently a municipal one, the Quebec government is forming a working group to look at new regulations.
“It’s really sad, actually,” said pit bull owner Odette Lours. “In the last few days, I’ve noticed some people would give me a side glance when I was walking my dog.”
In 2005, Ontario passed a province-wide ban on the breed. Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard has said his province could do the same.
Montreal SPCA spokesperson Alanna Devine said new legislation is important, but a ban would not address the real issue.
“There are certainly people who should not have a dog, that have dogs for the wrong reasons, that are irresponsible with their dogs,” she said. “Quite frankly, if we prohibit a certain type of dog, these people are simply going to switch to another type of dog.”
Veterinarian Sarah Annie Guenette advised potential owners to be aware of what each breed is capable of.
“If you are nice to your dog and treat it respectfully, there’s going to be a mutual relationship that’s going to be good,” she said.
