The Globe and Mail, or Fiberal rag as I like to refer to it as, has a repulsive article in yesterday's paper.
Here is an excerpt which activated my gag reflex: Lean and muscular, Bryant is light on his feet in the ring, where he's
spent hundreds of hours since he took up boxing more than 30 years ago.
But he's also fierce-he squints his eyes and grits his jaw when he
takes a punch, a far cry from the genial and charming demeanour that
has made him such a popular cabinet minister. (He was appointed
attorney general in 2003 and became famous for banning pit bulls.)
Followed by retching...
Bryant took up boxing at the age of 10, after his small size (he's
under 5 foot 8) precluded most team sports. "In boxing, they match you
by weight, so I was sparring with the ittiest-bittiest boxers around,"
he says. Still, he considers his mother's willingness to let him step
into the ring a great sacrifice on her part. "It's hardly a parent's
dream for their child to go off and get hit," says Bryant, who grew up
near Victoria.
The above statement certainly explains a lot.. I was positive he has small man's syndrome but the proof is in the pudding.. or boxer shorts..
Now here is the excerpt that threw me into Exorcist type, head spinning revoltion.
FIGHTIN' WORDS
- Favourite boxer Muhammad Ali
- Favourite move "Not getting hit"
- Best bout ever Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier in the famous 1975 "Thrilla in Manila" -Ali was declared the winner after 14 rounds
- Worst hit you ever took "Trevor Tobias, right cross, first round, 1982-the rest is fuzzy"
- Best boxing movieRocky (1976)
- Toughest opponent "Pit bulls, so I banned them"
If you can stomach reading the rest, be my guest.. here is the link.
I stumbled across a new virtual pet called Foo Pets. Go check it out. I set up a cute little Rottweiler girl pup and named her Peppa. You have to feed, play with, water and take care of your virtual pet or it will be sent to the shelter to be looked after.
I looked around for some information about what it costs to own a dog per year. I know what it costs me since I keep track. The first year I had my youngest dog it cost me 15,000.00 for all three of my mid sized dogs (70 - 75 lbs). Now I had some expenses incurred that are part and parcel in having a pup. My other two dogs were senior dogs therefore there were some extra vet bills tacked on, but overall it isn't really that out of line.
According to one source I found:
Product/Service
Cost 1st Year
Yearly Cost
Low Cost
My Cost
High Cost
Low Cost
My Cost
High Cost
Purchase Price
0
50
1000
0
0
0
Food
125
300
500
125
300
500
Vaccines
20
75
150
10
60
100
Vet Bills
40
75
400
40
125
400
Spay/Neuter
35
120
200
0
0
0
Bed
25
70
150
0
7
15
Treats
20
20
100
0
20
75
Chew Bones
20
90
150
0
20
50
Bowls
5
8
25
0
1
3
Collars
8
5
20
0
1
2
Leash
5
7
20
0
1
2
Training
15
40
450
0
10
100
Fence
0
750
1500
0
0
75
Vitamins
15
20
75
2
15
8
Flea Control
20
20
200
20
20
200
Heartworm
50
52
100
50
52
100
Shampoo
6
6
25
6
6
25
Grooming
0
0
400
0
0
400
Grooming Tools
8
8
250
1
0
25
Dental Care
0
0
40
0
0
40
Stain Cleaner
8
30
75
5
5
75
Waste Disposal
0
0
50
0
0
5
Training Aids
25
25
300
3
3
30
Deworming
6
6
30
6
6
30
Boarding
15
150
200
15
150
200
Crate
40
50
150
4
5
15
Car Restraint
0
0
100
0
0
10
Totals
$511.00
$1977.00
$6600.00
$287.00
$807.00
$2485.00
Total over the life of a 14 year old dog
Low Cost
My Cost
High Cost
$4,242.00
$12,468.00
$38,905.00
The costs estimated by the author are based on a 50 pound dog living in the midwest US.
Maybe the thoughts of a "virtual" pet are more reasonable for some. Think about the downturn in the economy, all you need for your virtual pet is the cost of your internet. Hell no! What was I thinking.. I wouldn't give up my little snuggle bug for anything. I would eat KD as a steady diet to give my dog what he needs. It is still sort of fun to have a virtual pet too.. I'll see how long I can keep Peppa alive.
There is a great post over at Caveat this morning which gives you an update on our fundraising.
Excerpt:
I
await up-to-the-minute numbers from the Banned Aid treasurer who is
working hard to keep track. Our small cohort of people (including the
sole webmaster) is struggling to keep up with announcements. In other
words, we haven't got everybody on the website yet but you can click
the 'Who's Helping' box under the Bone-O-Meter, which I updated today
with a ballpark amount, to find out.
How do you spell relief? S-U-P-P-O-R-T.
We got it. Big-time.
Somehow,
the stars aligned for a lot of us across the continent within the past
couple of months. It's as if everybody woke up from a spell at the
same time and said WTF? We gotta save the dogs!
The DLCC wants to say THANK YOU to the Canadian Kennel Club, as they will be sending Clayton Ruby a cheque for $8,000!!!!!!
Those folks deserve a HUGE ROUND OF APPLAUSE, especially the Board of Directors, who gave it a UNANIMOUS 'green light'!!!
It looks as though we'll get our Supreme Court filing submitted on time - but we couldn't have without all of you. Now the wait will be to see if the SC of Canada will read the case; only time will tell so cross your fingers, rub your lucky rabbits' foot, light your candles...do whatever you have to do, but keep those positive thoughts coming!!!! For those who have donated to, and supported this legal challenge, our expressions of gratitude will never be enough. The outpouring of confidence from the purebred community has never been stronger, or more affirming - I don't know where to start, but we hope you all know what an enormous difference you ALL have made!!
Recently, a London
woman kindly took in a dog down on its luck. The dog in the picture above
(Faith), along with another dog, belonged to neighbors. The dogs were
disposable items and left behind when they moved away. The woman, I’ll call her Jane which is not her real
name, along with her 13 year old son willingly gave Faith a permanent home.
Here is an excerpt from her letter:
Faith has had her vaccinations, spayed
and chipped. When I got her she was starving for attention and pretty thin, she
had bonded instantly with my son who is thirteen. I loved her right from the
beginning, she is an awesome dog.
I have been laid off since Oct. so in the
morning I will be watching the news and she curls right up and sleeps for about
two hours. At around 12pm she will wait by the door for my son coming home for
lunch and also around 3:30 when he comes homes from school.
London animal
control got a tip from someone saying there was a “pitbull” at a certain
address. When AC showed up, they deemed her a “pitbull” and said Jane had 14 days to get Faith out of
province or Faith would be killed. Unfortunately the previous owners had her
micro chipped, and chip identified her as a “pitbull” and listed her age at approx
1 1/2 yrs old.
With choices running low, Jane contacted ANML RESQ.
The rescue has safely moved Faith out of the province where she has a chance to
find a loving forever home and second chance at life.
Here is
another excerpt from Jane’s letter:
All I ask and wish for is that someone
protects her and loves her.She did not
deserve to be taken away from a home with people who could find no fault with
her.Faith is so deserving of a good
wholesome family that will keep her and cherish her forever.
It is extremely difficult for me to let
go however it was this option or she was to be destroyed by those that are
enforcing a law with no merit.Faith did
nothing wrong other than being born a ‘type’ of dog.This law has destroyed many lives I am
certain, as my son and I are grieving this loss.I am uncertain if we will ever completely
heal.
Another dog has been ripped from its loving owner
for no reason other than how it looks.Thanks McGuinty Liberals for bringing
heartbreak to thousands of Ontario
dog owners for no reason other than political optics.
This has been an emotional roller coaster
for all involved I am certain. Even though I have been actively moving
animals in and out of both Quebec and Ontario - I never was
touched by this on a personal level. I have a strong feeling that no one
really does understand the magnitude of this ban until there is a loved one or
acquaintance that has been affected.
I am a personal friend of Faith’s owner. London
Animal Control (London
Animal Care Centre) arrived at her home. Faith was not involved in an
incident such as free at large, an attack or excessive barking. Faith was
outside on the balcony and someone said she was using this as her
bathroom. Animal control investigated and found no evidence - therefore
unfounded. When he was at the door Faith came to him and was licking his
hand and was being her friendly self. That's when he
said Faith was a pit bull. The owner said “no she is boxer mix”.
He looked at her teeth and said she was only approx. 1 year
old and Faith was to leave the province unless there was proof Faith
was 3.5 years of age.
I read the checklist from London
Animal Care Centre; which clearly indicates the 'proof dog is not a pit bull'
and 'proof dog is a 'restricted' pit bull. In reading this “checklist”
you can clearly see that it is impossible to keep any short haired mutt within London if there is no documents
almost from birth dated 2005.
On a side note from the personal friend/rescue worker: The owner who rescued
Faith has recently suffered tremendous tragic personal loss.
She only wanted to hold onto what is left and Faith played a huge part. She
suffers silently. She is a strong woman however this is one blow that she
could have done without. This is not only about a dog; but it is also
about a human being. Hopefully something good can come out of this.
Hopefully there is hope. I
have 'Faith'.
I would like to
remind dog owners to please not register your dog with your vet or license her as
a “pitbull”, “pitbull terrier” "stafford cross" or any similar term.
There is no such breed and you are only giving ammunition to those choosing to
enforce this law (which there is no obligation to enforce).
Remember:
Do not let Animal Control officers
enter your home or take your dog. Demand to see a warrant.
Know your rights and contact a
lawyer if you are in need of legal assistance.
Do not volunteer information. This
may be used against you!
For more information about what to
do if Animal Control comes to your door click here.
Before I get into the meat and potatoes of this offer, I would personally like to say that I have one of these collar racks that was given to me as a gift by the person who makes them. All items handcrafted by Dirk are exquisite quality. I highly recommend treating yourself to a wood crafted item by Dirk.
I sell shadow leash & collar racks, $19.95 each, now reduced to $15.00 +
shipping. Or pick up for free. <G>
I will donate the entire amount to the "fund".
I have on hand two Rotties, two Labs, one JRT and one APBT on hand.
I can make more, but at regular price, will donate that as well.
I would also need a profile shot of your dog if a mix.
If you're dreaming of spring, I have two Muskoka chairs ready at $99
each, will donate half of that.
Custom made you can order any outdoor wood product (white cedar) such as
a wishing well, bench, planter, whatever you can think of.
Price = Time and material. Donation half of that. Till April 1st.
I will grant 25% off my usual fees for any real estate transaction or will
provided that the client mentions that the DLCC or Banned Aid Coalition when
they call me.
I have two offices, one in Markham and one in the Beaches in
Toronto. It is best to call me at my Markham office on weekdays. I can handle
real estate transactions anywhere in Ontario with electronic registration, but
clients will have to come to one of my offices to sign documents.
I will donate 25% of any commission earned if it is referred to me by
someone who mentions Bill 132. This includes someone far away needing a
Realtor. Just email or call me and I will find one in your area who
specializes in what you are looking for. 25% of my referral fee for
that transaction will also go to the DLCC in their fight against Bill
132.
I basically work the GTA area and 905 and parts of 705.
You can reach me at Royal LePage Your Community (the #1 Canadian RLP Brokerage) at 1-866-880-6572
The donation from our Boston Pizza Restaurant in Peterborough North is being sent to Mr. Ruby's office. The total from the restaurant is $1,107.90 plus $25 that was collected in the jar.
Total $1132.90
Starr White
Windstorm Salukis
www.angelstonefarms .com/dogs
On behalf of Banned Aid Coalition, thank you Starr! You have been a guiding light in this fundraising effort. Huge hugs of thanks...
Having raised and paid a total of $650,000, only to loose the last
appeal, the Banned Aid Coalition (Advocates for the Underdog, Golden Horseshoe
APBTC, American Staffordshire Terrier Club of Canada, Staffordshire Bull
Terrier Club of Canada and the Dog Legislation Council of Canada) have not quit
and gone home! They will, through legal council Clayton Ruby, make one more
attempt to overturn Ontario's Bill 132
which banned 3 purebreds and untold mixes fitting the physical definition
of a "pit bull" in the province.
This has now truly become a valiant effort on the part of those individuals
involved to change the status of this Provincial breed ban. If unsuccessful in
their efforts, their failure will not be because of lack of effort and a
failure would clear the way for unchallenged legislation to be introduced
elsewhere in the country.
In less than 9 days, by January 23, 2009, an outstanding $67,000
must be paid (or guaranteed) before Banned Aid can proceed with an appeal to
the Supreme Court of Canada which is estimated to cost yet another $70,000.
"After raising and paying $650,000," said Cathy Prothro
treasurer for the Banned Aid Coalition "It would be a travesty for our
dogs to have come so far and have to stop now for the sake of $67,000 that we
just don't have in hand at the moment. This isn't much time and we need
help."
"So far, the majority of funds raised have come from individual
donors that are too many to list," said Prothro "but it would be
appropriate to thank the CKC clubs and related organizations who have come forward!"
The following have come forward with financial support
contributing a significant percent of the total $650,000 raised and paid so
far. For those who have been holding back...consider a contribution before the
January 23 filing date.
Your donations are critical today and can be sent RIGHT NOW using:
OR directly to Clayton Ruby (using the words “In trust for
Banned-Aid" in the subject line of your cheque)
11 Prince Arthur Avenue, TorontoON, M5R 1B2.
THE BANNED AID COALITION WOULD LIKE TO PUBLICLY ACKNOWLEDGE,
COMMEND AND THANK THE FOLLOWING CKC CLUBS WHO HAVE GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED THIS
COURT CHALLENGE. PLEASE IF YOU CAN...JOIN THEIR RANKS AND SUPPORT THE FIGHT
AGAINST BREED SPECIFIC LEGISLATION...
Barrie Kennel Club, Sydenham VDTC, Halifax Kennel Club, Dartmouth
Kennel Club, Border Terrier Club of Ontario, Forbidden Plateau Obedience and
Tracking Club, Valley Kennel Club, Canadian Manchester Terrier Club, NFLD Dog Club, Red
Deer & District Kennel Club, Ft. St.
John and District Kennel Club, CRDFS, New Brunswick Kennel Club, Afghan Hound Club of Canada,
Chihuahua Club of Canada, Temiskaming Kennel Club, Evelyn Kenny Kennel Club,
Association of Great Dane Fanciers, St. Catherine's and District Kennel Club,
Nova Scotia German Shepherd Dog Club, Border Terrier Club of Canada, Pug Club
of Canada, Great Dane Club of Canada, A.H.C. of Canada, Sudbury and District
Kennel Club, Boxer Club of Canada, Northern Ontario Boxer Club, Saluki Club of Canada,
Canadian Mastiff Club, Belleville and District Kennel Club, Mount Royal Toy Dog
Club, Scottish Terrier Club of Canada, Eastern Canada Dachshund Club, Atlantic
Terrier Association, Oshawa Obedience Association, Great Pyrenees Club of Southern
Ontario, Fort Saskatchewan and Area Canine Association, Victoria City Kennel
Club, Hub City Kennel and Obedience Club, Miniature Dachshund Club of British
Columbia, Brantford and District Kennel Club, German Shepherd Dog Club of
London, North Saanich Dog Obedience Training Club, Canadian Manchester Terrier
Club, Collie Club of Canada, Thunder Bay Kennel, Club, GEODIC, Collie Club of
BC, Bouvier Club of Canada, Schipperke Club of Canada, Oakville and District
Kennel Club, The Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Canada, The Rottweiler Club of
Canada, The Bull Terrier Club of Canada, C.O.R. Newfoundland Club of Canada,
Nickel District Kennel Club, Temiskaming Kennel Club, Lower Mainland Kennel Club,
Woodstock Kennel Club, Pine Ridge Kennel Club, Canadian Dog Judges Association,
Canadian Dog Obedience Judges Association, Aurora and District Kennel Club, Papillon
Canada Pacific Kennel Club, The Maple Leaf Silky Terrier Club, Canadian Briard Club,
Australian Shepherd Club of Ontario, Nipissing Kennel Club, CAANS, Woodstock
and District Canine Association, Grande Prairie Regional Kennel Club,
Association Of Rhodesian Ridgeback Fanciers of Western Ontario, The Rhodesian Ridgeback
Club of Eastern Canada, Erie Shores Kennel Club, Guelph Kennel Club, Kitchener
Waterloo Kennel Club, Thunder Bay Kennel Club, Alaskan Malamute Club of Canada,
Alberta Boxer Club, Bull Terrier Club of Alberta, Champlain Dog Club, Chinese
Shar-Pei Club of Canada, Chow Chow Fanciers of Canada, Algoma Dog Fanciers,
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Canada, Bull Terrier Fanciers, Canadian Cardigan
Corgi Club, DPCC, Ottawa Kennel Club, Rideau Terrier Club, Sault Ste. Marie
Kennel Club, SBTCC, The North East Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club, The
Weimaraner Association, Pomeranian Club of Canada, Vancouver IslandDog Judges Study Group and The Canadian
Kennel Club.
"PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME CONTRIBUTIONS FORWARDED
DIRECTLY TO CLAYTON RUBY, SBTTC, OR DLCC MAY HAVE BEEN
INADVERTENTLY OMITTED IN THIS LIST SO PLEASE ACCEPT OUR APOLOGIES SHOULD THIS
HAVE OCCURRED"
The Canadian Kennel Club | 200 Ronson Avenue | Suite 400 | Etobicoke | Ontario
| M9W 5Z9 | Canada
We have been saying for a while now, with this climate what we need is a feel good, positive movie about dogs.
I personally haven't seen this movie yet, but I may go tonight.. It looks like a fun movie.
In an article, Rescued Pit Bulls Make the Big Screen, film producer Ewan Leslie insisted that the movie Hotel For Dogs
include pit bulls. Leslie shares his life with two rescued pit bulls
Mack and Luka.
I'm an author with a book entitled Fox Hollow that features a Keeshond character
named Augie, who plays a central part in the resolution of this suspense story.
I think Augie would be thrilled to help raise funds to get before Canada's Supreme Court. This character is based on a real Kees, and the chance to be the featured dog in this story was auctioned off to raise funds for Kees rescue.
I'd be willing to donate 100% of my royalties from everyone who purchases this
book (as an ebook download or trade paperback) directly through my publisher's
website.
Here's a link to my page on my publisher's site -- they need to order directly
from the page --
If someone wants trade paper, order through the link below, NOT Amazon. Royalties cannot be tracked through Amazon.
Let's get the word out everywhere! Google has already taken notice ... let's keep the momentum going! There is not much time left!!
This affects all breeds across all borders, the Ontario Legislation is currently being used as a basis for a similar law in several States.
We have to make the Government hear us. Enough ... is enough! We Dog lovers of ALL breeds want our rights back!
The flurry of donations from around the world, from all walks of dogdom, has literally brought me to tears.
I was trying to catch up on some of the messages and this one caught my eye. I thought I would share it with you.
Sent: Friday, January 16, 2009 7:30 PM
Subject: [canadianshelties] Defending our rights to own dogs in Canada
The Dog Legislation Council of Canada (DLCC) is fighting the government of
Ontario on the constitutionality of breed specific legislation. While I am
not a fan of the bully breeds, when I heard that Shelties are now one of 96
breeds targeted on Italy¹s ³dangerous² dogs list, I had to get involved. We
must stop the erosion of our rights to own our dogs.
Whether you now own a breed that is banned in Ontario or not, imagine
visiting that province with your Labrador Retriever or other smooth haired,
wide skulled pure or mixed breed dog. If an RCMP officer or private citizen
decides that your dog looks "substantially similar" to one of the banned
breeds, they can have your dog confiscated and killed. There is no appeal.
There is no recourse. It's happening right here in Canada.
The DLCC is $67,000 short on legal fees to take this issue to Canada's
Supreme Court. They need the funds by the end of January yes this very
month. If each dog owner in Canada contributes $1, there would be more than
enough to sustain the fees for this case.
This week I donated $35 ($5 each for my six Shelties and one Pomeranian) to
the DLCC through its website: www.doglegislationcouncilcanada.org Will you
accept my challenge to donate at least $1 for each of your dogs? You can
donate as a club, as an activity group, as a company or you can donate in
memory of your dear companions who have passed on.
DLCC takes Paypal, Credit Card, direct email transfers or you can mail them
a check. More details are on the DLCC web site. This is not a hoax, an urban
legend or other SPAM. It¹s real. First the pit bulls, then our Shelties.
Let¹s get moving before it's too late! Let's send dollars for our dogs
TODAY!
I just wanted to announce that I am
donating any canuckdogs ad design fees for Feb. Advertising placement from ads
that I design this month will go to the DLCC to help in this great cause!
(scroll down for more info)
If you have booked a canuckdogs ad for
Feb and still need it designed and want to help out this great cause,
please contact me...and all my regular ad clients will be advised to
donate their money to the DLCC this month as well.
If you are looking to advertise on Canuckdogs, please contact Sue Coghlan for available spots:
sue @ canuckdogs.com (no spaces) Sue has advertisers donate the ad
placement fee to the DLCC as well so the whole cost of your ad
including design would be going to help in the BSL fight!
Right now there is no greater cause that I can think of in so much need!
Kelly's Canine Hotel in Grand Pre Nova Scotia pledges to donate 1.00 for every canine guest staying at the hotel this Saturday night and challenges other boarding
facilities and doggie daycare to do the same.
In light of the fund raising drive being undertaken by the DLCC I would
like to add my support to this enormous task. Canine Specialty Software
wouldn't exist without breeders and exhibitors like you and any effort
to restrict even one breed jeopardizes us all.
So, from now until the end of the month all proceeds on new software
packages will trigger a 25% donation to the DLCC. With programs ranging
from $50 to $250 that can generate a lot of cash for the fight against
the narrow minded and uneducated!
QuinnCarlin's Midwoof.com Announces a Donation of $5.00 for each order placed online from 13 January to 31 January 2009. These monies will be forwarded to the BANNED AID COALITION.
In addition, customers can choose to add their donation to Banned Aid to their order and we will forward their donations along with ours to Banned Aid at the end of January 2009. ________________________________
You can view it at www.midwoof.com
Judy N. Green CEO QuinnCarlin Distributors Ltd. judy@midwoof.com Rimbey AB,
I can also create a logo/graphic for print in 300dpi so that it can be used as a letter head or print.
OR I will take your favorite Rottweiler photograph and remove the background and/or merge it with family members or other dogs in a new setting.
Regardless of what you want, I will do it to your satisfaction for a donation direct to Banned Aid in Canada.
I have created many designs for folks over the years.
I challenge others to offer their talents to help our dogs....!!!
Jan Cooper jan 4 rott @ rott-n-chatter.com (no spaces)
ROTT-N-CHATTER.COM and BSL NOTIFICATIONS
Home of the oldest Rottweiler domain and BSL site in the world
"The Lord will never give us anything greater than He knows we can bear."
For anyone who has an advertising spot on Canuck Dogs or Best Dog In Canada, or anyone that wants a graphic for their website, or even a graphic to print and put on their home wall etc. I will design you a graphic, and will donate 100% of that to the BandAid coalition to FIGHT the "pitbull" ban in Supreme Court. They have only have till the end of the month and have raised $6000 in the past 2 days. For $25 I will do any graphic with the dimensions of 8 1/2" X 11" or under.
Send me the specs, pictures, and an idea of what you want, and I will be happy to oblige. Graphics can also be just pictures and no words, and are GRRRRRATE for framing or for gifts!
My e-mail is lauren@bellaclan.com and if you send me the info for the graphic, I will send an invoice/$ request to your e-mail.
Sample two
They have only till the end of the month to make the remaining $$ needed to fight the "pitbull" ban in supreme court. If you do not need the advertisement or do not want a graphic please still consider donating to them, the info can be found below!
Lauren Shaw
www.bellaclan. com
Bellaclan Border Collies
~Canada~
Thank you Lauren, On behalf of Banned Aid Coalition
Keep up the great work and get everyone you know involved. Send the link to the page or copy and paste with the link from this site. Who doesn't have a dollar or two for every dog they own? It's as easy as hitting the donate button. If you can possibly afford more, please give generously.
With your help we can continue on with our legal challenge. We must go to Supreme Court of Canada. We must overturn this ban!
The
constitutional challenge to represent the collective, national interest of
responsible dog owners is in dire straits.
We are
67,000 short of being able to get our voices heard in Canada's
highest court, the Supreme Court. We have been granted an extension to come up
with this amount, but just till the end of January 2009.
BIG
BROTHER, DAVID AND GOLIATH
On-SCARIO
( AKA Ontario Canada ) has flagrantly wasted tax payers dollars to act as
Goliath against our David ( Banned Aid Coalition ) to ban any
"substantially similar" dogs to the banned pure bred dogs, American
Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Pit Bull
Terriers.
NOW WHO
IS THE BULLY?
Over 4000
dogs dead, yes even puppies’ folks.
In
essence, the Ontario
government has taken over our Pedigree Act and has decided what breeds and
mixes thereof will live, drive through or visit within its boundaries.
It simply
doesn't matter whether you like the bully dogs. It is now a matter of sending a
message to government we are no longer willing to allow politicians to
sacrifice the lives of innocent dogs.
DOGS
for DOLLARS: IS YOUR DOG WORTH A DOLLAR?
ONE
DOLLAR, A LOONY TO FIGHT THE LOONS IN GOVERNMENT!
This post was originally published on Dec. 1/2008. We thank you for your support if you beckoned to our call; however we are still 67,000.00 dollars shy of our target. We need your help to continue our legal challenge. We don't have much time so please donate and forward this message to everyone you know.
Thanks from Banned Aid Coalition
If Looks Could Kill --- Urgent Message from Banned Aid Coalition
Remember the old saying, "If Looks Could Kill"?
These days In Ontario, they can and do.
Do you own a short-coated dog with a boxy snout? Is he brindle, white, brown or red? Then you may very well own an Ontario "pit bull".
Everything from Boston Terriers to Great Danes, purebred or mixed, have been identified by those enforcing the Dog Owners Liability Act (DOLA) as "pit bulls".
Due to the anxiety and confusion this law has created, many national breed clubs have asked for official exemptions from Ontario's Attorney General. In fact, people are writing to the Attorney General before they get a dog to make sure they are making a safe choice.
For owners of mixed breed dogs (in other words, most people), the confusion means that they are unaware of how this ban directly affects them. After all, there is no valid method to test the breeding of a mix and there is nothing the law that says how you prove your dog is not a "pit bull" - yet the onus is on you, the dog owner, to do just that.
The latest decision from the Ontario Court of Appeal states that if even a tiny risk exists, it is the responsibility of government to regulate it by whatever means possible - even if this means exterminating it.
In restoring the law to its original form, the Justices told all Canadians that despite credible research and evidence proving otherwise, the mythology surrounding the "pit bull" is taken at face value by our courts.
In other words, uneducated opinions, gossip and hearsay from any source (such as news reports) can be used to prove anything - and worse, such flimsy evidence can influence our rights and freedoms in all aspects of our lives.
Do you now see that this not just about dogs anymore?
In the words of Clayton Ruby, "According to the Court of Appeal, so long as the government puts forth some evidence in support of its legislative decision, regardless of its credibility, reliability or value, it cannot lose. And it's not just about dogs anymore. This ruling, if left unchallenged, will become case law and as such can be applied to anything, from dogs to donkeys."
Ultimately this means that the life of every dog and every breed is just a pen stroke away from extinction. All it will take is a little bad press.
We refuse to quit. We must take this case to the Supreme Court of Canada so that dog (and all property) owners can take back control of their and their dogs' lives.
But we have a problem.In order to move forward, significant financial obligations must be met. The Banned Aid Coalition must raise $100,000.00 within two weeks in order to pay for the outstanding costs to date and to finalize our application to the Supreme Court of Canada.
The DLCC and Banned Aid Coalition firmly believe in the importance of this cause. We are prepared to carry this burden farther but we need your help. Don't sit this one out because the future of dog ownership, if not all property ownership, is what's at stake.
Many have stepped up to help us along the way but we are again in a crunch for time and money. Please join dog owners and others from across our great country in standing up for fair and equal treatment for all.
Most of all, stand up for your best and only friend, your beautiful dog. He is depending on your help during his darkest hour.
Thanks to everyone for your ongoing support. Together, we can win.
Please donate today - every dollar counts.
"We must all hang together, or, assuredly, we shall all hang separately." - Benjamin Franklin
There are several ways you can donate.
You can mail your cheque payable to the DLCC to: Cathy Prothro 351 Pleasant Street Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2Y 3S4 Canada
For your convenience you can deposit from any bank directly into the Banned Aid Legal Fund by depositing to: Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Penhorn Mall, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia Account 00513 010 1526839
In a landmark event, the UK’s largest animal welfare charity the RSPCA has joined forces with DDAWatch and the Coalition For improved Dog Ownership Standards (C-fidos)
to publicly call for an end to the unfair law that results in dogs
being deemed ‘dangerous’ as a result of their physical appearance.
For the first time, the UK’s most prominent animal welfare
organisation has been prepared to publicly support calls for a repeal
of section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act (DDA) - Section 1 is the part of
the legislation which bans dogs based on their breed or type.
I spent my holidays hunkered down. 2008 was a year that seemed to deal out blow after blow. It felt great to have some days with very little contact with the outside world. I spent several days doing what I wanted, when I wanted. That sort of lifestyle could seriously get addictive.
I had a discussion with a friend the other day about animal welfare vs. animal rights. I wondered aloud how different we really are. I guesstimated likely 80 to 90% of people who support and follow AR or liberationists groups either have no idea what that means or that these groups have liberation as their main goal. I think the vast majority of followers and supports only see the warm and fuzzy side of things.
Let's face it, who wants to see animals suffer? Well, the small percentage of the population that are sociopath's and/or animal abusers; I guess.. I don't even think some who inflict suffering and pain actually know they are doing a disservice to the animal. People who use improper harsh corrections, tether animals for long and frequent periods without enough stimulation and basic needs met. Those are just a couple examples. I guess I am imposing my view of what is decent and correct in that statement as well; however I believe common sense goes a long way. Most of us have at least a good grasp on common sense, but there is a portion of the pop that haven't a clue and they are the ones who stand out in a crowd.
While having this discussion and talking about my views on treatment of animals raised for food and hunting etc... my friend reminded me:
Animal rights, also known as animal liberation, is the
idea that the most basic interests of animals should be afforded the
same consideration as the similar interests of human beings.
Animal rights advocates approach the issue from different philosophical
positions, but they agree that animals should no longer be regarded as
property, or used as food, clothing, research subjects, or
entertainment, but should instead be viewed as legal persons and members of the moral community.
AR groups such as Peta go the extra mile to imply animals are better off dead.
“There is no hidden agenda. If anybody wonders about -- what’s this with all these reforms -- you can hear us clearly. Our goal is total animal liberation. [emphasis added]” — “Animal Rights 2002” convention, Jun 2002
“I openly hope that it [hoof-and-mouth disease] comes here. It
will bring economic harm only for those who profit from giving people
heart attacks and giving animals a concentration camp-like existence.
It would be good for animals, good for human health and good for the
environment.” — ABC News interview, Apr 2001
“In the end, I think it would be lovely if we stopped this whole notion of pets altogether.” — Newsday, Feb 1988
I asked the question, but don't you think the general masses would never allow an end to pet ownership? Don't you think people will catch on before it is too late?
Anyone remember the second world war? Rwanda? Armenia? These examples are recent. If people can brainwash or manipulate humans into mass killing of entire races or demographics of people by the millions, what is stopping humans from killing animals by the millions? Aren't humans animals? Ok, now this is where I draw the line.
I want all animals treated with respect and dignity. I don't mind paying more for my food to allow for proper treatment of animals. What is proper? Healthy and safe environment. Healthy as in; clean, dry, well ventilated and no forcible feeding. Proper, appropriate and healthful nutrition. Does it not make sense that if what we raise for food is treated with a healthy environment; we will be healthier for it? It is called the food chain. Do we need meat? No, not really. Many people survive and flourish on vegan or vegetarian diets. Is it something I choose? No. I believe it should be a choice. I won't judge you if you don't judge me. The world balances itself if we let it, however this is where man's meddling comes in. When the world tilts and needs a V-8, you can bet there is a human behind the reason.
Here is my vision.
I would love to see an across the board, enforceable, common sense set of standards set for at least North America. Ok, Canada for now. Let's worry about home first.
If we can lead by example, hopefully others will notice. We have certainly paid attention to many European countries that have woken up to the smell of Nescafe. I would like to see a participation of as many different sectors as possible put together what is reasonable and enforceable. There are examples in effect that are proven winners. Let's use the model and get it in place across the country. Let's revamp the farming industry similarly to what was done for animal control in Calgary. Simply, concisely and use common sense. Let's join together as consumers, owners, breeders, animal lovers and those who can't be bothered. Let's negotiate what we can live with and what makes sense. Let's move ahead of the radicals and sociopaths and leave them to thrash around in their own bed of nails. Let's prevent another tragedy stemming from complacency and denial.
Let's catch this one before it's too late. Before it becomes something in a history book...
History class 2050. Pet ownership; a thing of the past. Remember when our parents and grandparents used to own dogs, cats, and other animals as pets? Imagine, a dog, cat or any other smallish animal living in your house, sleeping in your bed. Relying on a human for food, shelter and water... wow. What a foreign experience.
Sorry everyone, I can't imagine not having a dog/s in my bed.
The gang at Bad Rap have done some amazing work with good PR!
This months Sports Illustrated has the Vick dogs on the cover. It brings tears to my eyes seeing the faces of these dogs, smiling from ear to ear.
The dogs removed from Michael Vick's property were divided between Bad Rap and Best Friends. Most of the dogs have gone on to live with loving families.
Here is an excerpt from SI. Go out and pick up a few copies.
Since being rescued 20 months ago from the dogfighting ring financed
by Michael Vick, all but a few of the abused pit bulls have been
recovering in sanctuary, foster care and adoptive homes. Now even the
most traumatized of them can have a happy new year.
Below is a Christmas card I'd like to share with everyone.
My wish for the New Year is that we will continue to fight against bad dog laws and breed bans in particular. Remember, at the root of every bad dog law is a dog incident. Please obey the laws in your area, be considerate to others, and be a responsible dog owner in the New Year and always!
Here are some things you can do to help with our fight against bsl in the New Year:
Make a donation - obviously that will help us keep the fight alive. I have to tell you, I am worried about the financial part of this fight. It has been hard work getting the donations we have so far and we have done well, but without more we will not be able to continue our legal challenge. Please, send what you can. Every dollare matters.
Help change public image - get a CGC or a CGN on your dog or get him or her certified as a therapy dog. Compete in obedience and get titles. Get into parades and the public eye in a positive way. Be an ambassador, behave in an exemplary fashion and set a good example.
Continue to write to politicians and the media on this issue. Keep the tone informative.
Join the DLCC or other organizations fighting against the ban. Encourage friends to donate to the challenge fund.
We are right about this. We know that breed bans are wrong and do nothing to keep society safer from dog bites. Being right won't make it go away. Hard work, changing public opinion, and enough money to take DOLA to the Supreme Court are the only things that will. So please help us stand up for innocent dogs and owners, and for rights in this country.
I kind of like the title. That's exactly how it happens: Hype, panic, bad law to 'protect the public'. There are several examples in history of this being the method of passing laws, the US Patriot Act, a reactive law made in the heat of the moment, in hindsight is viewed as overly intrusive by many Americans. I digress.
I found it interesting to read the background to the Ontario law, even though it is information already known to me. Give it a read. Then, as always, I ask you to please donate. Tell people. Get the message out that this is a bad law that needs to be changed.
It truly was a sad day in Mudville today when I opened my issue of Dogs In Canada. I really miss all the stats that DIC used to print in their monthly ‘Official Section’ and because of this I look forward to the ‘Dog & Litter Registrations’ issue and this month was it.
It was (to me) so sad to read that in 2008, in all of Canada, there were absolutely no registered American Staffordshire Terrier litters. Zero, zilch, nada!!The smaller in stature cousin to the AmStaff, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, is still hanging in there with 21 registered litters in 2008, an increase from 20 in the previous year.
I wonder what’s going on with breeders across the country, in provinces where it’s still legal to breed AmStaffs?We need those breeders to keep their lines going, to help ensure that the breed doesn’t die off in Canada! We need actual breeders who know what they’re doing to make certain that temperaments are sound and stave off the backyard breeders that don’t care about temperament or the people buying their puppy mill puppies.
I enjoy reading statistics, but I’m really scared that my breed of choice, the AmStaff is on it’s way to becoming a statistic.
I wonder sometimes why people aren't in an uproar about the Ontario Court of Appeal's decision to uphold Ontario's Dog Owners' Liability Act. I guess it's because people can't get past the word "Pitbull". Since they can't get past that word and all of the preconceived notions they have about "pitbulls" people just don't seem to care. What is consistently being missed by the general public is the fact that if this decision stands, replace the word "pitbull" with anything.
Anything can now be banned with no real evidence that it is in the best interest of public safety. I find it absolutely astounding that people can't see that this is a huge erosion of rights in Canada.
Forget the word "pitbull". Not only because it isn't even a breed, or because people's perception of the breeds often referred to by this generic term are unfortunately biased due to a lack of accurate information about the breeds, but because if you can't get past that word, you can't see the larger issue at hand. The larger issue has huge implications for Canadians, and Canadians should be angry about this law and this ruling. To get an idea what I mean, try this exercise:
Replace "pitbull" with red cars. If there were several stories in the media covering accidents involving red cars would that mean that there were in fact more accidents involving red cars? Would it be expected that the government, before banning them, would be required to demonstrate with numerical data, not just the media reports, that red cars were more often involved in accidents? Would the argument, well, even if we can prevent one injury or death from a red car by banning them make sense? Is burgundy red? How about plum? Is it right for the government to choose which car colours you can have?
Replace "pitbull" with bicycle. If there were several stories about bicycle accidents in the media, would that be enough evidence to ban them? Would one automatically assume that cycling is too dangerous and should be banned? What if it was only a certain type of bicycle, like a mountain bike. Should mountain bikes be banned because there were some news reports of accidents involving them, without any other evidence showing that mountain bikes are dangerous?
I could go on forever, but you can fit in your own replacement words now, hopefully you get the point. With this precedent, anything from amplifiers to zippers can be banned. So why the hell aren't we Canadians more concerned about it. Think about your favourite item, animal, tool or whatever. If it were banned without appropriate evidence to show "reasoned apprehension of harm" how would you feel? Would you want others to help you stand up for your rights? Help dog owners stand up for theirs.
We need money. Lawyers don't work for free. Help us to stand up for our rights AND yours. Click the Donate button on the left of your screen. If a lot of people donate a little tiny bit - hey, I know it's tough financially right now, but these are your rights we're talking about - we can keep the challenge going. If not, we can't. It's that simple.
Somewhere on the Trans Canada highway between eastern Manitoba and the Ontario border a trek for the homeless has taken a slightly different path.
Kerry Pakarinen has walked over 2700 kilometres since July in his cross-Canada trek to raise funds and awareness for the plight of the homeless in Canada.
Accompanying him for the entire trip has been his faithful friend, his dog Preacher. Various news articles have described him as a "Mastiff" or "Bull Mastiff".
The DLCC is working alongside concerned dog owners and banding together to help Kerry and Preacher in any way they can, including clothes, food, blankets, etc, as the pair enter into the winter season crossing Ontario. Estimates suggest that they will be in that province for at least two months , on their way to Prince Edward Island.
Also of concern to dog owners countrywide are the often draconian anti-dog laws -- some of the worst in the country -- that Kerry and Preacher will encounter during his trek across Ontario. Both the vague provincial law enacted in 2005 and the bylaws of many cities and towns throughout the province may present a serious risk to both him and his dog. Dog owners would like to be there for him in case he runs into trouble.
We are currently in the process of contacting Kerry, but our best guess is that they will reach the border of Manitoba and Ontario (travelling eastbound) around November 12.
This Facebook group will keep people updated on the whereabouts of the adventurers, so that they can be greeted with assistance and kindness throughout their journey.
As soon as we contact Kerry, this site will be updated.
PLEASE help us locate this man and his dog.
We have set up a blog spot and facebook group for anyone to send in their information, should they be able to locate this team.
We need ALL dog owners to be on the look out. If you can find it in your heart to do up a care package for this couple, please do!
If you find him, please report back to this group as soon as possible.
Please join the facebook group HOMELESS PREACHER for the latest updates.
Kerry Pakarinen's dog Preacher resembles a pit bull, but no one seems sure exactly what breed he is. The duo are on a cross-country awareness walk for the homeless that will take them to Ontario, which bans pit bulls. (Nov. 12, 2008)
An article in the Toronto Star today explains the journey of a homeless man from Vancouver and his only friend, his dog Preacher. Kerry Pakarinen and Preacher are on a cross Canada awareness walk for the homeless and are due to cross through Ontario enroute to the east coast.
Here is an excerpt:
They've been welcomed everywhere and even received favourable coverage in print and on TV.
Unfortunately, the moment they cross into Ontario, one of them could face a death sentence.
Columnist Antonia Zerbisias also has a blog where she has written a kick butt article. To read that article click here. Please leave your comments.
Thanks Antonia for bringing this situation to light. It is imperative to warn Kerry of the dangers he and his dog Preacher face if he chooses to enter Ontario. This very well could save his dog's life! Preacher, like Rambo and hundreds of other dogs, are walking targets in this province (thanks to our incompetent government). A warning could save a huge heartache and tragic ending to a heartwarming story of courage.
Today is Remembrance Day, an important day. It's the anniversary of the end of WW1, 90 years ago this year. Canadians died, in that war and in others, defending freedom and democracy, and standing up against oppression and tyranny. As a country, we collectively remember those people who sacrificed their lives on this day each year. The lives of some given for the freedom of others. Dying so that others might have a brighter future. Entrusting those who remain to continue to defend freedom and democracy and oppose tyranny. We honour those soldiers on this day each year, but do we honour their legacy in our daily lives? Do we still defend freedom and democracy?
I believe that Canadians like to think that we do. We like to think of ourselves as a modern, peaceful, "nice", free and democratic, peacekeeping country. Yet it seems that in truth, Canadians are rather apathetic to giving up the rights and freedoms so hard fought for.
I don't know how many times those paying attention have to repeat that DOLA is not just about Pitbulls before it sinks into conscience the masses in this country. It is about rights and freedom, and it is just one of many examples of how Canadians are allowing governments to take away rights far too easily. It is actually an exceptionally good example of how this is happening, because it covers quite a few rights in one fell swoop, that have just been erased with DOLA and the Ontario Court of Appeal's decision to uphold it.
Search and seizure without a warrant. Guilty until proved innocent (reverse onus). Banning something due to "reasoned apprehension of harm" based not on evidence as one would expect, but based on media coverage. The inability to travel freely through the country as a Canadian citizen based on what the dog in the car looks like.
Here it is laid out once again for the masses: It's not about"Pitbulls" or even dogs! Of course it is to dog owners, but it's also about the rights and freedoms of Canadians.
Let me just clarify, for those of you who say that you have the right not to be attacked by a "Pitbull" (moot since the breed doesn't exist), of course you have that right. You have the right not to be attacked by ANY dog. What those of us challenging DOLA want, is to have fair laws that apply to ALL dogs, not bans. As the victim of a dog bite by a breed that was NOT one of the banned breeds or even "substantially similar", I'm quite insulted by breed specific laws, but I digress. Your right to not be attacked by one of the banned breeds or anything that looks similar should not trample my right to choose what kind of dog I own. Or my right to travel freely through my country. You can keep the right not to be attacked by a dog with short hair and a blocky head and NOT take away my right to own a dog with short hair and a blocky head. It is very possible for us to live in this country and not trample on each others rights, by following examples like Calgary's. There is absolutely no good reason to take away my right to own a dog of my choosing. It is completely unnecessary and does no good whatsoever and only serves power hungry politicians.
Okay, so back to how this isn't about the dogs, it's about rights and freedoms that were so hard fought for, ask yourself where do I see this heading? Can it be abused by the current or future authorities? Is it fair and enforceable? Does it offer a solution to a problem that doesn't interfere with the rights and freedoms of citizens? Before legislation is introduced, let alone passed, these questions should be asked.
When you have a law like DOLA, with reverse onus, search and seizure without a warrant, and the next to impossible task breed identification being left in the hands of unqualified Animal Control Officers, the answers to those questions should have been very clear: Down a dark path. Dogs will be killed based on appearance. Dog owners will be ostracized in their communities because forcing owners to muzzle to their dogs without reason will change how other people view the dogs. Dogs will be misidentified by ACOs and killed. Other breeds will be added as dog bites continue since evidence shows that bans are ineffective in reducing dog bites. It will be difficult and costly to enforce. It will not solve the problem of dog bites as irresponsible owners will simply choose other breeds or continue to own banned breeds in defiance of the law. Those were the answers to the questions that should have stopped DOLA. So why did it pass?
More answers to the question where is this heading? If we can ban breeds using media coverage of dog attacks and no other data, we can ban anything. If we can search and seize suspected "Pitbulls" without a warrant, we can do that with other things. We can ban cars that appear to have been modified for racing, whether they were racing or not and crush them. We can ban cellular phones and electronic devices in cars even though there are plenty of other laws covering undue care and attention while driving. What is next? Thin edge of the wedge I think, and I think the wedge could get pretty wide if this is allowed to continue.
Absolutely people need to be responsible with their dogs, their cars, and anything else that we do. We shouldn't ban golf clubs because some idiots use them to hit balls at cars. We shouldn't ban kitchen knives because some people use them for criminal activities. We shouldn't ban spray paint because some people use it to tag every surface they can find. Punish the action, not the item. Don't be quick to hand over your right to have golf clubs, cell phones, kitchen knives, baseball bats, spray paint or anything else because some people are irresponsible with those items.
Today, honour the soldiers. Think about all that they and their families sacrificed and why. Tomorrow, stand up for your rights as citizens of what should be a free and democratic country and continue to be vigilant about protecting those rights for future generations.
If the Ontario law stands, it could very easily spread like wildfire.Even if you don’t care about “pitbulls” ANYTHINGcan be banned if the courtdecision stands, with no evidence of “apprehension of harm”.
Warrantless Search & Seizure – Replace “Pitbull” with any other item or any breed of dog.Is it okay in Canada for authorities to be able to enter your home and seize it without a warrant?
Reverse Onus – Dogs are being misidentified every day by Animal Control Officers.If your dog is not a registered dog, and especially if it is short haired, it could be misidentified as a “Pitbull” and seized and killed.
In other parts of the world, LONG BACKED BREEDS, SHORT LEGGED BREEDS, SHORT FACED BREEDS, HAIRLESS BREEDS are on their way to being banned because the extreme Animal Rights movement is lobbying, saying it is cruel to continue breeding these dogs.I expect to see any breed with ANY genetic disease or fault added to that since the goal of this movement is for people to no longer have animals held in “slavery” domestic pets.
Breed Bans do nothing to keep people safe.In fact, in many areas where bans exist, bites have actually increased.The Netherlands rescinded their ban after 15 years because it was ineffective.Governments know that breed bans don’t work.They have been given the information by the experts, which leads one to believe that the only motive they have for a breed ban is the power to ban.
Non breed specific laws work.Calgary has a wonderful law.It works.Bites have decreased, licensing has increased.It is not breed specific and holds animal owners responsible for their pets.
I must say, I am breathing a sigh of relief today. The election south of the border is over and Obama slid in no problem. I was one of those who used to sort of like McCain (pre election campaign) but the choice of Palin as a running mate and selling his soul did me in. I was rather terrified that a potential candidate to run the good old US of A didn't seem to be able to get through an interview with Katie Couric never mind run the country.
I was rather fascinated by the Obama/Biden campaign. It is refreshing to see, rather brought me to tears several times to actually see a leader who has the ability to pull people together. To set an example that is so much larger than himself or his party. Hearing the familiar words spoken by Abraham Lincoln in the Gettysburg Address"that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth".
To hear the words chanted YES WE CAN.
HOPE SUCCEEDED..
I think I have been watching too much Newsworld lately because I have this ticker tape running in my head. There is but one line running across the bottom of the screen in my mind.... Equality and fairness under the law.... Equality and fairness under the law....
Discrimination comes in many forms. In my naivety, the thought never crossed my mind that I too would one day be a target of discrimination based on the shape of dog I own. I never dreamt that one day I too would be part of a civil rights movement to take back my rights to own what type/shape or breed of dog I choose to own.
Fear mongering fosters a blindness toward the removal of civil rights. Think about that statement for a moment. When is the last time you watched the "news" in the main stream media and didn't hear about something was either bad for you or would be certain to kill you? Ban this, ban that. Don't do this, don't do that.. The list is endless and circular. The intent is to keep you in a constant state of panic and anxiety so you will want to tune in to the next newscast or read the next newspaper to see how you will possibly stay alive to see your kids grow up.
Yesterday was a breakthrough in hope, unity and equality that reaches far beyond the borders of the US. What happens in the USA doesn't stay in the USA. We are effected north of the border whether we like/acknowledge it or not. I couldn't help but feel part of the party. Obama's speech, in fact McCain's speech renewed my hope that maybe - just maybe - some common sense will begin to shine through like the sun poking through the clouds on a rainy day.
Here is another question to ask yourself..
How difficult is change; in the face of resistance to change and complacency?
Change is more often than not, a painful undertaking. The sustenance for change is the belief it is possible and a vision for the future.
Like an unchecked cancer, hate corrodes the personality and eats away its vital unity. Hate destroys a man's sense of values and his objectivity. It causes him to describe the beautiful as ugly and the ugly as beautiful, and to confuse the true with the false and the false with the true. Martin Luther King Jr.
When I was a little girl, I thought that this country, Canada was fair, honourable, democratic, and a great place to live. I guess I'm a bit jaded now. I want to love my country; really I do. I was brought up that way, by parents and especially a father who loved this country, were fiercely proud to be Canadian, and believed there really was no where better to live.
Yikes! What happened to that fair and wonderful country? A court in Canada has ruled my dogs dangerous and unpredictable based on NO actual evidence, because of their physical characteristics. I am ashamed. Not of my dogs of course, my dogs are just dogs who happen to have short hair, blocky heads, and athletic bodies. They love everyone, and are responsible canine citizens. I am ashamed of my country.
The media in my country has betrayed me: They have gone from reporting facts to sensationalizing anything and everything that might sell more papers or increase ratings. It is no longer about news, it is about marketing.
The politicians have betrayed me: They don't want to pass laws that are effective and fair to everyone, they want to seize the spotlight in any way they can in order to attain or retain power. Given an option to do good with less attention, or create a buzz and do no good and a lot of harm, Ontario's politicians chose the latter: At the expense of the lives of puppies and dogs.
The court system has betrayed me: Allowing media reports to be used as though they were statistical data. Shameful and irresponsible. I can not use strong enough words to describe the sheer lack of diligence on the part of the court system in this country that allowed for the horrid, ill thought out and careless ruling in the Ontario Court of Appeal which has given governments of all levels the freedom to ban anything from Bullmastiffs to xylophones. I am absolutely disgusted.
For anyone who might think this doesn't matter because they don't care about "pitbulls" wake up. This isn't all about pitbulls. On the government side, it's about power and the ability to ban whatever they choose. The Ontario government must feel some euphoria from banning as it seems to be a favourite solution for them to cure whatever supposedly ails society. On the Animal Rights Activist side, it's about eliminating pets completely. Don't care about "Pitbulls", American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers? How about similar looking breeds? Think your breed will never be banned? Here's a news flash for some of you, there are movements out there to ban short legged breeds. Long backed breeds. Hairless breeds. Short faced breeds. How big of a leap is it to breeds that have had a history of genetic hip displaysia, or some other problem that can be largely fixed by careful screening? It isn't about one breed, or two or three. The movement pushing for "pitbull" bans is really pushing for the extinction of domestic pets. Canada, at least Ontario, is helping that movement along.
Another great unfair portion of this nonsense is financial. If we are to continue our fight against this unfair legislation, we need $ and we need it now. The government has deep taxpayer lined pockets - ironic being a have not province now - and we do not. We beg. We sell t-shirts and decals. We will not be able to see this through without more financial support. Please donate. Every penny counts. Help us see this through to the end, and maybe, just maybe, we can see some fairness come back to this country.
PEI Veterinary Medical Association The Farm Centre Building 420 University Avenue Charlottetown, PE C1A 7Z5
Thank you for your recent e-mail to the Prince Edward Island Veterinary Medical Association (PEIVMA) concerning elective surgeries such as ear cropping, tail docking, and dewclaw removal.
I ask that you bear with me with regard to this 'form' letter in response to your message. The PEIVMA council is comprised of volunteers with full-time careers and other commitments. Our e-mail address has been flooded with letters such as yours. It is not possible to answer all of them individually in a timely manner.
At present, a bylaw banning the surgeries mentioned above does not exist in the bylaws of the PEIVMA. However, because of the recent bylaw amendment in New Brunswick which makes performing these surgeries for cosmetic purposes "professional misconduct", this issue will be discussed at our upcoming annual general meeting.
There are no plans at this time for the PEIVMA to adopt such a bylaw. Should there ever be a proposed bylaw change by the members of the PEIVMA, all letters received will be considered.
I saw the subject title come up in my mailbox, “I Lost my Girlie” and I got chills. The AmStaff is one of the breeds included in the breed ban in Ontario; this title could mean one of two things, neither one good. To have your AmStaff wander off or escape the confines of a secure yard makes your blood turn to ice and panic starts to consume your mind. It is an extremely dangerous world out there now in “Onscario” for a missing AmStaff; owners and pets have been subjected to all kinds of atrocities since Bill 132 became law. Who knows what could happen to your pet all alone out there? If your dog is caught, she faces mandatory euthanasia or living out the rest of her life in a dog pound.
But to lose a beloved AmStaff to old age and ill health is heart-breaking and right now has a deeper impact on the owner left behind because of the ban that’s in place. A new Amstaff puppy would be a perfect solution to heal the pain of Tess’s passing; but with the current legislation this can’t legally happen.
Until Bill 132 is defeated, we AmStaff owners and lovers have no choice but to watch our breed of choice reduce in numbers one precious life at a time.
Tess is the lost girlie who lived a long 14 years and brought joy to her owner every day of her life. To her owner, she was one of the most beautiful souls she ever had the pleasure of knowing because she was extraordinarily gentle and loving. The last 6 months were hard on both Tess and her owner; old age is not for sissies no matter the species. She remained true to her breed to the bitter end, stoic and dignified and she still tried to play. She would grab at her canine sibling’s ankles as he passed by but didn’t get up from lying down. She would roll and do her snapping thing clicking her teeth together as if she were a land shark on crack but never made contact with anything but a pillow or blanket or any other benign object that wouldn’t scream ‘OW’.
So, we’ll say goodbye to Tess knowing that she’s at RainbowBridge, free to run and play, muzzle-less and know that there is no breed prejudice there.
Imagine the Attorney General of Ontario sees some news stories about red cars involved in accidents.Imagine that he notices that the news media seems to cover more stories about red cars being involved in accidents than any other car colour.Now imagine that he speaks to a mechanic who says that red cars are involved in more accidents than any other colour.The AG might decide to pass a law banning red cars.
If you currently own a red car, you can keep it under the new law, but you will face restrictions.You will have to specially license your red car with the Province and place a decal indicating this on the windshield.You will have to put a limiter on it to prevent it from reaching a speed above 50 kmh.You will only be allowed to drive it in approved areas and will have to put a special light on it so that at night when it isn’t obvious that your car is red, other drivers, pedestrians and police will be able to identify it as a red car.You will have to pay a higher insurance premium, and you will have to wear a helmet at all times when driving it.
Absolutely no new red cars will be allowed in the Province.No exceptions will be granted for visitors, tourists, those travelling through the Province on their way somewhere else or new residents.Anyone with an unregistered red car will be subject to fines and possible jail time, a criminal record, and the car will be crushed.If your car is substantially similar to a red car - that is, it might not be candy apple red, but maybe your brown car has a red hue to it, is orange leaning toward red, or it might have red trim on it – it can be identified as a red car by a police officer and impounded and crushed if not registered.It is up to you to prove your car is not red.
Now remember in this scenario, the only evidence the AG used to introduce this new law is that the media seemed to be reporting a number of accidents involving red cars, and he spoke to one person he considered an expert.At the public hearings for this law, imagine there is opposition.Insurance experts, other mechanics, experts in the collision industry inform the AG that the proposed law is flawed, because statistical evidence and expert opinion don’t support the hypothesis that red cars are involved in more accidents than any other colour.Auto makers are there too, and they inform the lawmakers that their red cars have the same features as cars of other colour, and that banning red cars will not make Ontarians any safer, and that instead laws need to be in place to prevent aggressive and dangerous driving in any colour of car, and that those laws need to have harsh penalties and must be enforced.There are also coroner’s inquest reports available at the hearings, with recommendations from previous auto accidents from all types of cars that recommend safe driving education programs as a key part of the solution to the problem of auto accidents.Owners of red cars are there, testifying to how responsible they are as drivers of their red cars, explaining that the vast majority of red car drivers are working people with families and that are not all red car drivers are aggressive young drivers, street racers or people who drive under the influence.
Now imagine that the AG and the government push the law through anyway, stating that they believe that red cars are a colour apart, and that it is in the best interest of the safety of Ontarians to ban them.They ban all red cars and don’t implement any safe driving education.They ignore the multitude of experts who oppose their idea in favour of listening to one who supports it.
As ridiculous as this is, it is very similar to what happened in Ontario with DOLA. Only dogs, unlike cars, are members of the family, with feelings. They notice when forced to wear a muzzle or when they are taken from their owners and held in prisons while their fate is decided. They miss the freedom they previously had to be a normal dog. They are living beings.
Not only that, but the Ontario Court of Appeal has ruled that something as flimsy as media reports can be used as reasoned apprehension of harm.
What this ruling has done has been to make the Ontario Government believe that they can ban anything they like.What will be next?My husband said today, only half joking, that we’d better hope the Ontario AG isn’t intimidated by three hundred pound men with more muscle than him, or he might ban those too even though they aren’t a threat to him. He was only half joking because how could the Ontario Government shock us any more than they have with how this boondoggle of an overly broad, overly vague, overly crazy law?It’s 2008.Appearance should not be a factor in lawmaking.Ontario missed that memo I guess.
So with the stroke of a pen, three years ago, rights were taken from Ontario’s dog owners.Now apparently Ontario’s government can take away more rights if it likes.All it needs is a few media stories and a determination to do the wrong thing.
All dog owners beware.When the Ontario Court of Appeal upheld the Dog Owner’s Liability Act, it also brought back the portions of the law that had been struck in the lower court ruling.Why does this matter to all dog owners?The substantially similar clause has been reinstated.
If you have an unregistered or mixed breed dog with short hair consider moving.At the turn of an Animal Control Officer’s head, your dog could be misidentified as a “pitbull”.The onus is then on you to prove that it isn’t. How do you prove that it isn’t if it isn’t registered as something else?You can’t. While you argue your case your dog will be impounded as though it were no more significant than an inanimate object.If you lose, your dog will be killed.One dog in Mississauga was in a 4’ by 3’ kennel for over nine months, more than half of his life, while his fate was decided.He was allowed fifteen minutes of socialization per day for nine months.This is one case, but there are many.In many cases, the dogs do not resemble at all any of the three rare, purebred dogs that are banned, not to an educated eye.The fourth banned breed is non existent.
If you own a Boxer, Presa Canario, Cane Corso, Vizsla, Pointer, Bullmastiff, Rottweiler, Doberman, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Catahoula, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, American Bulldog, Olde English Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Great Dane or a Lab mix be especially worried.Add to that Australian Cattle Dog mixes, Jack Russell mixes.Any dog with short hair and an athletic appearance could be misidentified.Any dog with a head that isn’t as narrow and pointed as a Collie could be targeted.Ironically I watched my husband get attacked by a Collie on the face and throat.He was extremely lucky to live, and needed an ambulance and a lot of stitches. If I were uneducated about dogs, I might jump to the conclusion based on my anecdotal evidence that all Collies are unpredictable and dangerous, but I know better.Incidentally it also didn’t make any news stories since it was a Collie, even though it was quite a serious attack.
If you think that your dog doesn’t look anything like any of the three banned purebred dogs, think again:Animal Control Officers have proven time and time again that their breed identification skills are weak at best.Add to this that you should be worried anyway, since when three breeds and anything that looks like it might be mixed with one are banned, it’s just as easy to add a fourth, a fifth, and a sixth, and so on.
The truth is, this isn’t even about dogs. It’s about rights.I agree with those who say that they have the right to be safe from dog attacks, but safe from any dog attack, not certain breeds.Breed bans actually do a disservice to victims of bites by other breeds.Yes we need responsible dog ownership laws, fines, even jail time if warranted.Not breed bans.Good people, family people are being punished.Good dogs, family dogs, are being persecuted and killed, while idiot owners go out and get other breeds and are still idiot owners, and it’s somewhat important to note that even if that doesn’t bother you, giving up rights should.Allowing warrantless search and seizure should.
Discrimination based on appearance is wrong, plain and simple.There are so many myths about these breeds, but physiologically they are just dogs.So put aside your preconceived notions and stand up for rights in your province, and tell your government you want them to stop killing puppies.
