A proposed animal control law has angered Mississippi residents and animal lovers nation wide. The law introduces a list of breed-specific dogs that would be classified as dangerous, as well as legislation that determines who may own a “dangerous dog.” The law would also permit police authorities to shoot and kill any dog that is deemed to be a dangerous animal. No questions asked.
House Bill 1261 designates that pit bull dogs in the breed of American pit bull terrier, Strattfordshire terriors, American bulldogs, or canines that are a mixed breed of any of these dogs would be deemed as a dangerous dog.
The legislation proposes that convicted felons could not own any of the specified dog breeds. In addition, owners of these pitbull breeds would be required to leash and muzzle their pets if they choose to leave their property with the animal.
The law would allow for police authorities to shoot any pitbull breed that is found to be running at large, unrestrained even in the presence of the owner, or if the animal is not properly tagged.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has stated that while the law may intend to help prevent dogs from attacking humans, that pitbulls are not the only dog breed to hurt humans.
“Breed specific laws are costly and ineffective,” a spokesperson said. “They are also inhumane.”