In Aurora, Colorado this past week the city council lifted the broad, onerous breed ban on 7 breeds and dogs that are mixes or resemble these breeds: American Bulldogs, Cane Corsos, Dogo Argentinos, Fila Brasileiros, Presa Mallorquins, Presa Canarios, Tosa Inus.
Yet, pit bulls and dogs that look like pit bulls remain banned in the city.
The city council also failed to pass any exception for persons with disabilities who want pit bulls for service dogs. This despite federal regulations that prohibit breed discrimination against service dogs.
Of course, the onerous ban has not reduced the number of bites in the city. But then, dogs don’t bite because of their breed or their appearance. They bite because they are afraid, whether as a result of isolation, lack of socialization and training, chaining, neglect or abuse.
A lawsuit challenging the ban is pending. One judge has upheld the ban.