It seems inconceivable that an Act of Parliament could stand for over twenty years has failed totally to recognise or understand the problems that the politicians attempt to address, worse still, has only served to confuse the public, discriminate against gorgeous animals, cause untold suffering to thousands of dogs, whilst bringing misery to loving owners.
 The issue, asalways, was the Politicians' determination to look like they are actually doing something, go ploughing ahead, devoid of any understanding or knowledge of the subject that are dealing with, which is commonly known as a 'knee jerk reaction'. They act in hast and the public and their pets become victims. I was recently told of a four year old dog that has been with its new family for just three months and to the delight of the new owners, this dog has been able to walk almost a hundred metres from their home, without trembling, panting or panicking. This dog now enjoys spending time lying on the floor with the family's eight year old daughter and loves to spend time in the garden when the roses are being pruned. His psychological scars are healing with the help of their dedication and 'Amichien� Bonding', almost as quickly as the physical ones, caused by a whip or thin bar although we all feel that it could take a little longer for him to climb into a car on his own. Understandable when you know that he had been hurled out of a speeding car just five months ago. Sadly, many people, seeing him for the first time, become tense and anxious, often ask if he is one of the banned breeds mentioned on the 'Dangerous Dog' list. I am certain that, like me, you would want to wish the new owners a wonderful life with their noble black and tan Doberman Pincher and amaze at the ability of dogs to forgive our species and build a brilliant friendship. I don't know if I could do the same. Until this Act is repealed innocent dogs will continue to be labelled, imprisoned and killed as a result of pathetic ignorance and fear, whether they are on the list or not is not the point, it is that whilst the authorities refuse to accept that they have got it all wrong that the beliefs and fears of the public will continue. There is no such thing as a intrinsically dangerous or deadly species. They only respond to the situation that they find themselves in and in all cases of dogs attacking people it is something that the dog is forced into, so people need to take control of the situation, recognise that it can happen and avoid it. Simple! Let's hope that one day, one person in authority will use their power properly and help to educate and defend those who continue to suffer. Jan Fennell 16th August 2011 | 
