I want to point out that the worst elements of our society don't keep Labs and Cockers for fighting and/or ridiculous status symbols of "toughness". Labs and cockers are also not subjected (by the same sort of people) to abuse, starvation, neglect, and flat out torture to make them vicious.
I'm not remotely denying news stories about them killing or maiming people. Given some of the irresponsible owners out there, I'm surprised that it's not worse.
I will point out however, that our media culture has it's "if it bleeds, it leads" mentality, and pit bulls are always a hot topic. Rightly or wrongly, they fit right into the "bogeyman" role and pit bull stories always make for good copy. Keep in mind that the same media that pushes sensational pit bull stories also pushes the hype of man-made global warming as pure, unassailable fact.
I didn't set out to be a pit bull defender on the forum. I just have a decent familiarity with the breed and have been researching them. What I've seen and read doesn't square with the negative image that is portrayed all too often.
Does all of this mean that I want to go out and find the next pit bull walking around my neighborhood and give it a great big kiss? Certainly not. I don't know anything about its breeding or upbringing. I just don't believe that the dog type is at fault. If breed-specific legislation bans pit bulls and similar dogs, I believe that the same thugs who currently have pit bulls will simply adapt and change to another powerful dog breed.
Thanks for your time.
Let me appeal to your reason...isn't that like saying you don't believe the type of vehicle is relevant to the severity of the accident?