Responding to the threat of breed specific legislation

Responding to the threat: What you can do to prevent a breed ban in your state

While the legislative machine generally runs slowly, it can turn into a
freight train when the public demands legislation. The upcoming
presidential election is turning the eye of the country to politics.
This is prime time for a high profile issue like a pit bull ban. Those
interested in maintaining the right to own bull breeds need to know how
to respond.

Vote
Politicians are influenced by those who elect them. If you haven't
voted, register today. As a voter you have more power than you know.
Three or four direct contacts from voters can change a vote. Contact
from any person in the district of a legislator has an influence, but
voters have the most power.

Be aware
Know your state representative and state senator. Follow legislation
that has been introduced in your state legislature. Most states have
excellent web site that allow the public to follow every move the
legislature makes. Tell your elected officials how you feel about what
they do. Don't send form letters to every legislator. Contact YOUR
legislator in a personal manner. The best methods for contact are a hand
written letter or a visit (form letters and e-mail often get ignored).
Most legislators visit their district for office hours. This is an
excellent opportunity to meet your legislator in person and let them
know how you feel.

Establish relationships
Get to know your local animal control officers, media representatives
and local politicians. Join a kennel club. These relationships will be
vital if a breed is threatened by a ban.

Be a responsible owner
As the owner of any dog, you have a responsibility to keep your dogs on
a leash in public, confined at all times and under control. If you
breed, place puppies responsibly and educate those getting involved in
bull breeds.

Make noise
Silence implies consent in politics. If a breed ban is discussed in your
state, write a letter to the editor, contact your animal control
officers, and talk to local politicians. Make people aware that the
threat of a breed ban can impact every dog owner, not just those owning
bull breeds. Do anything but be quiet.

A politically aware public can prevent poor legislation from hitting the
books in any state. We live in a democratic nation. Our politicians are
our representatives in the legislature. They are accountable to the
people who elect them. Our voices and action can prevent a breed ban and
many other poor laws from being passed.