Stop BSL

BSL is an ethical failure. BSL is a public safety failure.

Description

Breed-specific legislation (BSL) bans or restricts certain types of dogs based on their appearance because they are perceived as “dangerous” breeds or types of dogs.

A breed ban usually requires that all dogs of a certain appearance (”targeted breed”) be removed from the area wherein the BSL has been implemented.

Breed-specific restrictions may require an owner of a targeted breed do any of the following or more, depending on how the law is written:

• Muzzle the dog in public
• Spay or neuter the dog
• Contain the dog in a kennel with specific requirements (6′ chain link walls, lid, concrete floors, etc.)
• Keep the dog on a leash of specific length or material
• Purchase liability insurance of a certain amount
• Place “vicious dog” signs on the outside of the residence where the dog lives
• Make the dog wear a “vicious dog” tag or other identifying marker

Breed-specific legislation applies only to dogs of a certain appearance, not to any and all dogs. It does not take into account how the owner has raised, trained, or managed the dog. It does not take into account the dog’s actual behavior.

Why Is BSL Wrong?

• BSL does not improve public safety or prevent dog bites.
• BSL ignores the plight of victims and potential victims of non-targeted breeds.
• BSL is costly.
• BSL requires each and every dog to be identified as a breed—something that has proven impossible to do accurately and objectively.
• BSL makes targeted breeds more desirable to irresponsible and criminal owners.
• BSL does nothing to make irresponsible dog owners accountable.
• BSL punishes responsible dog owners.
• Not a single canine welfare organization supports BSL.