Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) is a law telling citizens what breed(s) of dog they can and cannot own. In Minden, American Pit Bull Terriers and any dog/breed resembling them are not allowed in town for more than seven days. In the eyes of many pet owners, dogs can be considered a form of speech and expression. In the eyes of some, BSL could be considered unconstitutional. Any breed of dog can be trained to attack and any breed of dog will bite if it feels threatened or harmed. In place of the law, education on dog behavior can help prevent any type of bite or attack.
The breed ban has been in place in Minden for multiple years, but is never truly enforced. There are multiple dogs in city limits that could be considered Pits. Ignorance and media have given many people the wrong idea about the bully breeds. Many different bully breeds serve as service dogs and therapy dogs. If a responsible owner were to bring an American Pit Bull Terrier into town, the dog could be taken away or it could be left alone.
All in all, the law seems to be unenforced and seemsto have been put in place only in fear and ignorance. Tell the mayor of Minden that this law needs to be repealed!
