BSL In Quebec:
How you
can help
Breed Specific Legislations (BSL) aren't the answer, so let's get to know the facts behind the Pitbull ban
How does BSL work?
BSL is legislation that restricts ownership or prohibits certain types of dogs on the sole basis of physical appearance or breed. The SPCA West Island opposes BSL because it discriminates against responsible dog guardians and well-behaved dogs simply because of their physical characteristics. Further, the facts show that BSL does not assist in reducing incidents of dog aggression or dog bites.
What are the penalties?
Starting Jan. 1, any dog on the list of banned breeds:
- Bull terriers
- Staffordshire bull terriers
- American pit bull terriers
- American Staffordshire terriers
- Any mix with these breeds
A Real Solution:
-
Prevention
- Enforce existing laws requiring dogs to be on leash in public places
- Enforce existing laws relating to the mandatory licensing and identification of dogs
- Adopt laws that prohibit aversive training methods
- Adopt laws that prohibit the use of guard dogs
- Adopt laws that prohibit the permanent chaining of dogs
- Adopt laws to regulate the breeding and sale of dogs
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Clear and Fair Procedures
- For defining dogs as dangerous on the basis of behaviour and expert opinion
- For filing a complaint or reporting a dog bite
- For seizing, handling, and assessing dogs involved in dog bites or displaying aggressive behaviour
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Strict Penalties
- Large fines for owners of dangerous dogs and repeat offenders
- Prohibition on animal ownership for owners of dogs deemed dangerous and for those who fail to comply with mandatory standards of care
- Possibility of imposing conditions on owners of dogs deemed dangerous, including: mandatory sterilization, mandatory muzzling, mandatory behavioural consultation and training, or euthanasia