1. How old are you?     45
2. Have you ever owned a dog ? yes

3. Have you ever owned a pit bull ? No, my brother and  two cousins owned and bred them, but got out of the breed realizing the liability of owning Pit bulls.  I've seen nice pit bulls with their owners, but their behavior changed when owners were not around or if they escape from their pens.

4. Do you think banning pit bulls will decrease the number of attacks on people by dogs? Of course, banning will decrease the number of dogs It lowers the population and less contact with people. If one dog group gets banned, then it opens the door for other breeds.

 However, I think PIT BULL should be banned from SCHUTZHUND as they are in Europe. 

5, 6, and 7 Yes

8. Do you think it would be more fair to the public to instate requirements for pitbull ownership?

Don't know. Ownership of any dog is now being challenged by Peta and animal rights organizations. I believe the approach should be make sure our Schutzhund clubs protect our sport. Both USA and the WDA are sanctioned for holding Schutzhund trials from the SV in Germany. We should follow their requirements for entree into trials.

The Schutzhund title, tracking, obedience and protection phases was initiated as tests of breedworthiness. We have been able to continue our sport, because we can show a direct corilation between Schutzhund and the need to develop the GSD.  It's a part of our breed requirements.

We enjoy Schutzhund competition as a sport by showing the skill of our dogs and handlers. I would hate to see the protection phases watered down or eliminated, if some animal rights group starts monitoring our sport. It's better to be forwarned than having to justify ourselves after the fact.

The pit bull's reputation whether true or exaggerated attracks some people, who like to fight dogs. This is a given! No amount of denial or trying to revese the pit bull's immage will change this reputation as viewed by the public.  The dye is cast!  There are good owners and nice pit bulls, but I'm afraid those who breed and keep pits, will have to deal with this reality.