Streetwise Streetwise (July 08, 2005)

What should be done about pit bulls? Asked Amador Valley Community Park.

Keith Carney
Santa Cruz
I'm not sure what should be done, but they can be inherently dangerous. I had an experience where a pit bull jumped up and put his jaws around my neck. It surprised me and I didn't anticipate it. I have a greater respect for the animal now.

Sandi Baron @occupation Cupertino
Well, I think we have some history showing that we've got a lot of pit bulls injuring and even killing people. There are certain breeds of dogs not meant to be penned up and I think that's one of the problems. People live in urban areas, and the dogs don't have a place to run, so when they get out, they get over-excited and end up hurting people.

Kate Coughlin
Mairmont Drive
I think that's the responsibility of the owner. There are plenty of great owners and great dogs that are pit bulls. I don't have a pit bull, but I've met nice ones before. I don't think there needs to be a law outlawing them

Barbara Crump
Vineyard Place
I don't think the government should be legislating what animals we keep. When people don't properly keep their dogs, then pit bulls are dangerous. They need to be properly restrained, and if they are escaping from the yard, then they don't deserve second chances.

Bryan Wright
Livermore
Pit bulls need to have well-thought out, stringent regulation. I don't think they should be eliminated, but some very enforceable regulation that ensures public safety needs to be in force. -Compiled by Sandy Christman

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