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City of Montreal’s decision to adopt by-law targeting pit bull type dogs denounced

Categories: News

August 18, 2016
City of Montreal’s decision to adopt by-law targeting pit bull type dogs denounced
By-law harms families, dogs and community
Humane Society International/Canada
The City of Montreal has revealed its misguided proposed by-law regarding animal management to address the issue of dangerous dogs. It targets specific breeds, namely by prohibiting the ownership of certain ones that fall under the definition of pit bull type dogs. Ewa Demianowicz, campaign manager or Humane Society International/Canada, issued the following statement:

“We are disappointed by the City of Montreal’s decision to adopt breed-specific legislation, a decision that goes against experts’ advice and credible scientific data. No documented data support these types of laws, and no jurisdiction with laws targeting specific breeds have ever been able to demonstrate an increase in public safety. The research is clear: dogs are individuals and no single breed of dog is inherently dangerous.

“Responsible animal management laws should be neutral, and not include any breed-specific language, while focusing on owner accountability. Unfortunately, Montreal’s draft by-law includes many measures specific to certain breeds or types of dogs, while outright banning the possession of certain breeds or types of dogs. The latter, while creating only an illusion of safety for the public, will have concrete and heartbreaking consequences for many dogs and their families. For example, families moving to Montreal with dogs with no behavioral issue, but fall under the ban, will be forced to leave their pets behind. Moreover, many dogs abandoned in shelters due to no fault of their own will have to be euthanized if they are identified as pit bull type dogs, regardless of their behavior.

“It is highly disturbing that an otherwise progressive city like Montreal would adopt such archaic and ineffective laws, based on myths and misinformation. Humane Society International/Canada calls on municipal representatives to reject breed-specific legislation and adopt laws that are humane, efficient and enforceable.”

Help stop breed-specific legislation in Quebec.

Media contact: Christopher Paré, 514 395-2914, cpare@hsi.org