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Steps to fighting Breed Specific Legislation
(This is adapted from an article I wrote sometime ago regarding how to start fighting BSL)
1) Notify the big all breed registries - at least both the AKC and the UKC have departments to tackle BSL.
In the United States
UKC: UKC Scan
AKC: Canine Legislation Dept,
In Canada
Canadian Kennel Club
If you are in another country, do an internet search or check out the FCI web site if your country is a member country and this will give you ways to contact national breed registries. FCI member countries.
2) Contact the national breed clubs for each breed listed (again, do an internet search for these - there are so many they cannot all be listed).
3) Contact local all breed clubs. If you are in the United States, check out: http://www.Infodog.com for a great list of upcoming shows (all AKC but some clubs members also do UKC, ARBA, etc.) by state and through it you can get lists and addresses for hosting clubs. This is easier than a general search of the Internet for lists of clubs. Also go to various registries and look for local kennel clubs.
4) Organize a letter writing campaign and get information out to local newspapers, animal control, legislators, etc.
5) Do not use abusive language or call names. It undermines your credibility and gives ammunition to those who insist only thugs own these breeds. Be professional.
6) If possible, go and testify. Remember #5 and when you go, dress professionally as if you were going to give a lecture or presentation. Do nothing to fuel the fire of those who insist only tough guys own these breeds.
7) Get involved with the community and try to keep abreast of happenings. Sadly, many of us find out about breed legislation after it is too late to effectively get involved. It is amazing how quietly people will try and enact laws and the public may not know about it until too late.
8) Encourage broad based dog bite laws that cover all breeds or crosses and take in to consideration:
- who owned the dog and under what conditions was it kept
- was the dog being used as a weapon?
- was the dog properly under control?
- Was the dog "justified" in the bite? (Like was the dog being teased or protecting property from intruders, was the dog injured - and note under protecting property, know your local laws.)
9) Communities also need to enact:
- Stiffer penalties for animal cruelty - most now are a slap on the wrist.
- Mandatory jail time and heavy fines for anyone convicted of using a dog as a weapon.
- Mandatory leash laws with stiff fines for breaking them - many communities - even suburbs - do not have them. (There will be exceptions for dogs actively participating at a dog show, working farm dogs and livestock protectors, etc.).
- Public education of breeds, safety around ALL dogs and what signs to look for if you suspect someone is using a dog for illegal things.
And of course, be the most responsible dog owner you can! Teach by example!
Please read here for tips on effective letter writing and finding local government officials.
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