It seems like not a day goes by when a dog attack is not front page news. What is going on? Many will tell you it is the breed of dog that is the problem – some breeds of dog are simply too dangerous for owners to control. I tend to believe that the opposite is true: that the owner is too dangerous for the breed.
When acquiring a pet you must make your choice wisely. The wrong choice could put you in jail. Many states have criminal penalties associated with dangerous dogs and the pain inflicted by them. You could be found guilty of a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the severity of the attack. Charges could include, but are not limited to, keeping a dangerous dog, criminally negligent homicide, involuntary manslaughter, criminal recklessness, and second degree murder. Read more about cases involving criminal convictions for dog bites.
Today, because of the enormous amount of press coverage involving dog attacks, prosecutors will convict you if they feel you are responsible for the dog attack. Inadequate enclosures, failure to control your dog or training your dog to fight or attack will end you up in jail. For example, check out the California Penal Code sections involving criminal liability for dogs.
Now I know that you think this article is strictly about Pit Bulls but this simply is not the case. Criminal liability is not breed specific. True, many reported dog maulings are associated with Pit Bulls or dogs such as the Presa Canario but I associate this with the fact that these dogs are extremely strong and have the ability to inflict damage. Dogs like a Yorkshire Terrier simply do not have the bite or body strength to kill a grown man.
Socialization and training are imperative in any breed. Getting to know your breed is also important prior to taking on the responsibility of dog ownership or during the ownership period. Read Choosing the Right Dog. I know many Pit Bulls who are very friendly and loving and I would bet money that I will never read about them in the paper. I attribute their demeanor to their owners. Yes, pit bulls are often associated with the seedier parts of society but there are many owners who lives revolve around their animals and it shows.
Be good to your animal. Don’t ignore signs of aggression and know the breed before taking on the responsibility. Every animal has a special talent or function. If you believe your dog’s special talent is to attack other dogs or people, you may be biting off more than you can chew.
If you are being charged with possessing a dangerous animal, you will need an attorney. If you are a victim of a dog attack, read more about cases involving criminal convictions for dog bites.
By Lisa Zanassi
