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Why breed-specific legislation is not the answer
Lori begins the show by discussing why breed-specific legislation is not the answer and the various laws and regulations which restrict ownership of certain dog breeds, collectively known as breed-specific legislation (BSL). Many cities and municipalities have enacted such restrictions, believing they will decrease dog bites and promote public safety, or out of misplaced fear. Lori explains Why breed-specific legislation is not the answer and the various ways such regulations are flawed, even though they may be well intentioned. More and more people and their elected officials are learning why BSL is not effective. Consequently, many such regulations are being reversed, being replaced by ones that put the burden on the dog owners to keep their pets under control.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association:
” The issue of dangerous dogs, dog bites and public safety is a complex one. Any dog can bite, regardless of its breed. It is the dog’s individual history, behavior, general size, number of dogs involved, and the vulnerability of the person bitten that determines the likelihood of biting and whether a dog will cause a serious bite injury. Breed-specific bans are a simplistic answer to a far more complex social problem, and they have the potential to divert attention and resources from more effective approaches. “
Being a foster parent for animals
To conclude the show, Peter’s guest is Brian Fitzburgh, a Los Angeles based real estate agent who heads up Real Estate Agents to the Rescue (ReRescue.org). This non-profit organization spreads the positive message about being a foster parent for animals and the value of being a foster parent to animals in need. Since real estate agents are accomplished networkers, there are many opportunities to spread the message on the value of fostering.
[…] while the move to save lives is commendable, we need not forget that keeping a pet is an emotional issue. Most parents who enjoy cordial relationships with their pets would not easily give up despite BSL. […]