Letter: Clarifying information on pit bulls, owners

Dear Editor:

The main problem with pit bulls, their owners and the general public alike, is lack of education and understanding.

A prime example of this lack of education is Tina Brewer's letter to the editor ('Pit bulls can be scary animals') published Oct. 3, 2008. I'll take it upon myself to educate you.

Diane Whipple of San Francisco was fatally mauled by Presa Canarios not pit bulls. Presa Canarios are almost triple the weight of an average pit bull. These Presa Canarios were previously owned by Pelican Bay Prison inmates Paul Scheider, and Dale Bretches, who are members of the Aryan Nation, and both are known for running illegal dog-fighting rings.

Marjorie Knoller was charged with second-degree murder and sentenced to 15 years because she knew these two dogs had a history of aggression.

It is up to the owner to make sure their dog is not a threat to public safety. This pit bull Ms. Brewer spoke of, if in fact it even was a pit bull, was raised from a pup, and when it began to age, it began to bite. Here is the perfect case of an irresponsible owner.

At first bite, this dog should have been euthanized. There is no excuse for keeping a dog that is showing aggression. Because of owners that do this, people get hurt, mauled or killed and then state 'the dog was always nice as pie.' Because of these people, and their dishonesty, the dogs end up paying the price.

There is no difference at all in failing to educate yourself, and choosing to remain ignorant. The letter to the editor you wrote has proven the point I have been trying to make for months. Thank you, Tina.

Barbie Turner

Libby