[familyop]

"1. The vagueness of the term "pit bull type". There are a number of breeds that get lumped into the "pit bull type" and 2. A percentage should not guide public policy. If pitbulls were magically to disappear, lo and behold some other breed/type would become the new ~61% dog."

I had a puppy described as a lab/mastiff mix by the previous owner. As he grew, he looked a little more like a lab/pit mix. He was cared for well, taught good manners around the house, very securely fenced and very polite with people--even the mailman. He was a "pit bull type." One day, at about 2 years old, he acted aggressively toward kids outside the fence. He was a liability dog. I put him down.

"Given the reported number of deaths linked to "pit bulls"..."

Include mauling incidents. Pit bulls perpetrate a far greater percentage of maulings and deaths for their total number than other dogs. The ban against pit bull type dogs (several similar breeds) in the UK greatly lowered the number of serious attacks.

The problem will be taken care of one way or the other in the States. You folks up north will continue to make your own choices on feeding defenseless people to dogs and bears as you wish. People--especially children--shouldn't be required to try to defend themselves against vicious animals with pocketknives or less. And no one should be caused any fear by any coward's animal while walking by a house on a public road.

[kanawa]

Pit bulls perpetrate a far greater percentage of maulings and deaths for their total number than other dogs.

Sorry, when both the numerator and the demoninator are in question your statement reflects only your personal opinion.

You folks up north will continue to make your own choices on feeding defenseless people to dogs and bears as you wish

You're an idiot, have a nice day.