Debate swirls around pit bull ownership | Local & State | Macon.com

Two highly publicized pit bull attacks in Bibb County since March have stirred new debate about the dogs, which some communities across the country have restricted or banned altogether.

Are pit bulls inherently dangerous? Or are they unfairly targeted because of a few high-profile attacks?

Bibb County Animal Welfare Director Sarah Tenon said because of the high number of pit bulls in Macon and the county, a dog attack here is more likely to be committed by a pit bull.

“They are the predominant breed in Macon,” she said. “You see a lot of pit bulls and pit bull mixes (involved in biting cases), but we also get bites from dachshunds and schnauzers. … I’ve seen some really nice pit bulls and some really bad Chihuahuas. We go case by case. That’s how you have to look at it.”

Tenon and pit bull advocates say their bites or attacks tend to get more media attention than other dogs in similar situations, which distorts people’s views.

“Because of what people hear, that makes them afraid,” she said.

But pit bull critics say they’re dangerous based on their genetic makeup and should be regulated under the law. And still others dispute that philosophy, saying no breeds are more dangerous than others. They contend how the dogs are raised contributes to any antisocial behavior.

via Debate swirls around pit bull ownership | Local & State | Macon.com.