At their last meeting, officials in Jurupa Valley, California, decided against a proposal that would require the pediatric mandatory sterilization of dogs deemed to be pit bulls.
The proposal was brought forward by Councilman Micheal Goodland. Goodland made it very clear that this was not about shelter numbers, or population issues. He is quoted in local reports, calling “pit bulls” wild animals and has stated openly that he would like to see a breed ban in place.
This follows what we have seen in California communities, where one council member makes extremely strong claims about “vicious animals” or “wild animals” and “protecting the community,” while at the same time saying that it is a shelter issue.
There were 2 votes for the proposal, and 3 against.
Two of those who voted against the proposal stated it was an issue of rights for them. Johnston and Roughton said they could vote to take away the right of dog owners to keep their animals intact.
The other vote for the proposal, aside from Goodman who sponsored it, cited dog attacks as the reason for voting for it, claiming the spay/neuter law would reduce attacks.
As more and more research into the issue of dog attacks and the dogs sexual status emerges, we are seeing stronger correlations to the way the dog is generally cared for, sexual status being an indicator of that.
The 2 part proposal contained the mandatory sterilization of “pit bulls” as well as a proposed marketing campaign urging responsible dog ownership, including voluntary sterilization, licensing and microchipping of pets.
These sorts of campaigns have proven to be incredibly successful, but only when the municipality provides information on how to access these resources.
We hope that the council revisits the campaign, as well as looking into providing resources to low income communities, which are the most impacted in these situations.
Fred M. Kray
krisdiaz9
Stop BSL 