Vernon

Photo: Amy Jackson-Shelling Vernon RCMP Corporal Richard Gingras introduced Molly Jensen, age 8, to his retired police dog Sultan

Pit bull and bully breeds are under scrutiny these days in British Columbia. Proposed Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) aims to ban the dogs, which encompasses several breeds under the general term pit bull.

There has been support for the ban after attacks like the one on a four-year-old Kelowna boy nearly two weeks ago. The legislation has even found support from Sahar Biniaz, Miss Universe Canada, who has received significant backlash for her decision to support the ban.

Photo: Amy Jackson-Shelling

Hug A Bull info table

But Pit bull and Bully breed advocates, including the SPCA, are claiming the bylaws won’t make communities safer. The society is focusing on public education, in hopes to dispel some of the myths that are propelling the BSL.

“I think when dogs are properly raised, trained, socialized and cared for they are wonderful dogs. If they’re neglected, abused, that’s when you’re going to see problems in them,” said HugABull volunteer Vanessa Robert.

“There are no bad dogs just bad owners.”

Bosely’s Pet Food Plus hosted a fundraising BBQ this Wednesday for the HugABull Advocacy and Rescue Society and will continue the event ‘Breaking Bad’ Thursday from 11am to 5pm. Vernon RCMP joined the cause providing on-site canine demos.

Vernon RCMP Corporal Richard Gingras introduced Molly Jensen, age 8, to his retired police dog Sultan, hoping to show aggressive breed types when properly trained are safe and good with people.

“I have no problem (with pit bulls). It’s not the dog,” said Gingras. “It’s usually the owner. How do I feel about German Shepards, pit bulls or aggressive dogs? We’re in the same boat sometimes. They all think they’re aggressive, but as you saw earlier with my dog, anyone can pet him.”

Gingras says he’s never been bitten or had a problem with Pit bulls in the Okanagan, stating the only bite he received on duty was from a Jack Russell Terrier.

“I think the RCMP K9 unit and Pit bulls, both kind of have had some bad press. 'Breaking Bad' is all about raising awareness and correcting misconceptions,” said Bosely’s manager Lacy Donald.

“I’ve always owned pit bulls my whole life, and I think they’re great family dogs.”

A petition opposing the BSL is gaining support throughout the province.