The link below is to a post on the blog Pit Bull Attacks in Illinois, this post deserves to be widely read. The topic is the right, and duty, of a community to pass laws protecting residents from violent dog attacks, and how the policies and interference of a Utah based animal rights PAC impact Illinois residents.
Best Friends Animal Society, of Kanab Utah scorches the earth when their carpetbagger lawyers drop in to bully any community brave enough to consider the rights of residents above the rights of violent dogs. Please remember that Best Friends Animal Society wrote HB 14 in Ohio. In the first 4 1/2 months after the passage of that law, two Ohio residents were mauled to death by pit bull dogs. Anna's Law in Illinois was written by Ledy Vankavage, now of Best Friends Animal Society, formerly with the ASPCA. Anna's Law does not allow Illinois communities to pass any breed specific law, and makes it difficult/impossible to actually declare a dog violent.
http://pitbullattacksinillinois.blogspot.com/2012/07/it-is-time-elgin.html
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Ohio pit bull roundup, 7/28/2012
So many pit bull stories and so little time. We will post this batch and come back to this in a few days.
In a story that defies common sense, 50 pit bull owners in Xenia will get a $23 refund check in the mail. The critical mauling of a Xenia woman in 2010 prompted the City of Xenia to pass a law requiring registration of pit bulls, payment of a $30 registration fee and provide proof of liability insurance of at least $100,000. I quote from the whiotv article "in May the state of Ohio removed pit bulls from its list of vicious dogs, and that decision overturned community pit bull bans."
First, Xenia never had a pit bull ban, just registration and insurance requirements. Second, HB 14 does not impact a community's right to regulate dangerous dogs. Ohio is a home rule state and communities have every right to regulate dangerous dogs.
Community leaders simply catered to a vocal and well funded special interest group, they should be ashamed of this action.
http://www.whiotv.com/news/news/local/pit-bull-owners-will-get-refund-checks/nPthC/
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Changes to law in Ashtabula Ohio are reported in the Hispanic Business News. Ashtabula had a pit bull ban and did not have any desire to change that law after passage of HB 14. After long months of meetings and "emotional testimony" the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League board vice president Irene Fiala announces a compromise with Ashtabula City Council that would allow adoption of pit bulls in that city. Fiala states "It has been a challenge, but I have fought city hall and won."
The proposed law still lists pit bulls as "vicious dogs" but allows pit bulls to be adopted from the APL "if it has been determined by the APL as being neither people-aggressive nor animal-aggressive, has an APL microchip implanted and an APL tag on its collar, has current rabies vaccinations and has been spayed or neutered and has a current dog tag or license issued by the Ashtabula County Auditor" per City Solicitor Michael Franklin. Violations of these provisions could mean a third degree misdemeanor for the first offense and first degree charges on any subsequent offense.
It will be interesting to see how this works out. The microchip will clearly identify dogs that the APL places in the community, any victims of these dogs may have legal recourse against the APL.
The name Irene Fiala draws attention. Fiala, named as the negotiator, is far from unbiased on the issue of pit bulls. Links below are to Fiala's Examiner articles. It should be noted that the Examiner allows authors to post material, no fact checking is done, the author receives payment per page view. Pit bull advocacy has LOTS of Examiner bloggers.
http://www.hispanicbusiness.com/2012/7/16/pit_bulls_back_in_bula.htm
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-pit-bull-ban-debate-part-1
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-pit-bull-ban-debate-part-2-the-so-called-clifton-study
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-pit-bull-ban-debate-part-3-bsl-does-not-work
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This story, out of Lorain Ohio, is sad and may well become common now that there is no disincentive to breed pit bulls in Ohio. A lactating pit bull was tied to a pole in front of Animal House, a pet placement center. Surveillance video showed a sedan approaching the building and leaving 3 minutes later. This dog was not found until staff arrived the next morning. Staff was upset to see the dog whining for her pups and were concerned about the pups.
Media attention to the drop off brought an anonymous tip on a classified ad showing a photo of the abandoned dog in a kitchen, with smaller photos of the puppies. The price listed for the puppies was $250 each and an address was listed. A local Humane officer talked to the woman at the residence listed in the ad, the woman's photo was also seen in the ad. The woman made a statement that she was being "set up by someone who stole her photo from Facebook" but neighbors have seen the puppies and the abandoned dog with the couple at that residence. Per Dave Arnold of newsnet5 "The puppies are really cute," said one anonymous neighbor." Humane officers searched the house and found no evidence of any dogs, or dog food.
Deregulation of pit bulls is expected to bring an explosion of pit bull breeding and sales of puppies. These same puppies are likely to find a place in the breeding/shelter/euthanization cycle. How very sad.
http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_lorain/Mother-dog-left-tied-to-pole-overnight-at-Lorain-pet-clinic-puppies-cant-be-found
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Per the Middletown Journal, Middletown Police shot a pit bull after it attacked a Jack Russell Terrier. The JRT's owner, Eric Sorrell said his dog is "fighting for his life." Per published reports, neighbors came with objects to hit the pit bull, and police were called. A Middletown police officer responded to the call, received permission from his supervisor to shoot and kill the pit bull "due to the animal's dangerous behavior and injuries, I placed one shot behind the dog's head" killing the pit bull.
http://www.middletownjournal.com/news/news/local/pit-bull-killed-after-attack/nPxhQ/
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http://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=1496137140642653899&q=State+of+Ohio+v.+Anderson&hl=en&as_sdt=2,44&as_vis=1
The official opinion of the Supreme Court of the State of Ohio remains that pit bulls are inherently vicious, and the Court shares many reasons why they should be regulated for the safety of the public. Legislators may be influenced by well funded special interests, but the opinion of the Ohio Supreme Court is not changed by HB14. The Maryland Supreme Court just made a similar ruling. That ruling has bit bull advocacy in an uproar. http://scorchedearththepoliticsofpitb.blogspot.com/2012/05/pit-bull-politics-in-maryland-or-sky-is.html
Prosecutor Taylor and Highland Heights Police Chief James Cook suggest adding an appeals process to any new law proposed for Highland Heights for any dog accused of being vicious. Taylor and Cook appear to be unaware that there is an appeals process written into the new Ohio law, granted it is designed to protect dogs accused of vicious behavior and NOT designed to promote public safety, but it is already state law. Highland Heights "Council will revisit the issue and check on the progress of the new ordinance as it is being developed in September" per cleveland.com. One can hope that someone on the council actually reads the new Ohio law.
http://www.cleveland.com/hillcrest/index.ssf/2012/07/highland_heights_city_council_20.html
In a story that defies common sense, 50 pit bull owners in Xenia will get a $23 refund check in the mail. The critical mauling of a Xenia woman in 2010 prompted the City of Xenia to pass a law requiring registration of pit bulls, payment of a $30 registration fee and provide proof of liability insurance of at least $100,000. I quote from the whiotv article "in May the state of Ohio removed pit bulls from its list of vicious dogs, and that decision overturned community pit bull bans."
First, Xenia never had a pit bull ban, just registration and insurance requirements. Second, HB 14 does not impact a community's right to regulate dangerous dogs. Ohio is a home rule state and communities have every right to regulate dangerous dogs.
Community leaders simply catered to a vocal and well funded special interest group, they should be ashamed of this action.
http://www.whiotv.com/news/news/local/pit-bull-owners-will-get-refund-checks/nPthC/
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Changes to law in Ashtabula Ohio are reported in the Hispanic Business News. Ashtabula had a pit bull ban and did not have any desire to change that law after passage of HB 14. After long months of meetings and "emotional testimony" the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League board vice president Irene Fiala announces a compromise with Ashtabula City Council that would allow adoption of pit bulls in that city. Fiala states "It has been a challenge, but I have fought city hall and won."
The proposed law still lists pit bulls as "vicious dogs" but allows pit bulls to be adopted from the APL "if it has been determined by the APL as being neither people-aggressive nor animal-aggressive, has an APL microchip implanted and an APL tag on its collar, has current rabies vaccinations and has been spayed or neutered and has a current dog tag or license issued by the Ashtabula County Auditor" per City Solicitor Michael Franklin. Violations of these provisions could mean a third degree misdemeanor for the first offense and first degree charges on any subsequent offense.
It will be interesting to see how this works out. The microchip will clearly identify dogs that the APL places in the community, any victims of these dogs may have legal recourse against the APL.
The name Irene Fiala draws attention. Fiala, named as the negotiator, is far from unbiased on the issue of pit bulls. Links below are to Fiala's Examiner articles. It should be noted that the Examiner allows authors to post material, no fact checking is done, the author receives payment per page view. Pit bull advocacy has LOTS of Examiner bloggers.
http://www.hispanicbusiness.com/2012/7/16/pit_bulls_back_in_bula.htm
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-pit-bull-ban-debate-part-1
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-pit-bull-ban-debate-part-2-the-so-called-clifton-study
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-pit-bull-ban-debate-part-3-bsl-does-not-work
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This story, out of Lorain Ohio, is sad and may well become common now that there is no disincentive to breed pit bulls in Ohio. A lactating pit bull was tied to a pole in front of Animal House, a pet placement center. Surveillance video showed a sedan approaching the building and leaving 3 minutes later. This dog was not found until staff arrived the next morning. Staff was upset to see the dog whining for her pups and were concerned about the pups.
Media attention to the drop off brought an anonymous tip on a classified ad showing a photo of the abandoned dog in a kitchen, with smaller photos of the puppies. The price listed for the puppies was $250 each and an address was listed. A local Humane officer talked to the woman at the residence listed in the ad, the woman's photo was also seen in the ad. The woman made a statement that she was being "set up by someone who stole her photo from Facebook" but neighbors have seen the puppies and the abandoned dog with the couple at that residence. Per Dave Arnold of newsnet5 "The puppies are really cute," said one anonymous neighbor." Humane officers searched the house and found no evidence of any dogs, or dog food.
Deregulation of pit bulls is expected to bring an explosion of pit bull breeding and sales of puppies. These same puppies are likely to find a place in the breeding/shelter/euthanization cycle. How very sad.
http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/oh_lorain/Mother-dog-left-tied-to-pole-overnight-at-Lorain-pet-clinic-puppies-cant-be-found
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Per the Middletown Journal, Middletown Police shot a pit bull after it attacked a Jack Russell Terrier. The JRT's owner, Eric Sorrell said his dog is "fighting for his life." Per published reports, neighbors came with objects to hit the pit bull, and police were called. A Middletown police officer responded to the call, received permission from his supervisor to shoot and kill the pit bull "due to the animal's dangerous behavior and injuries, I placed one shot behind the dog's head" killing the pit bull.
http://www.middletownjournal.com/news/news/local/pit-bull-killed-after-attack/nPxhQ/
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http://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=1496137140642653899&q=State+of+Ohio+v.+Anderson&hl=en&as_sdt=2,44&as_vis=1
The official opinion of the Supreme Court of the State of Ohio remains that pit bulls are inherently vicious, and the Court shares many reasons why they should be regulated for the safety of the public. Legislators may be influenced by well funded special interests, but the opinion of the Ohio Supreme Court is not changed by HB14. The Maryland Supreme Court just made a similar ruling. That ruling has bit bull advocacy in an uproar. http://scorchedearththepoliticsofpitb.blogspot.com/2012/05/pit-bull-politics-in-maryland-or-sky-is.html
Prosecutor Taylor and Highland Heights Police Chief James Cook suggest adding an appeals process to any new law proposed for Highland Heights for any dog accused of being vicious. Taylor and Cook appear to be unaware that there is an appeals process written into the new Ohio law, granted it is designed to protect dogs accused of vicious behavior and NOT designed to promote public safety, but it is already state law. Highland Heights "Council will revisit the issue and check on the progress of the new ordinance as it is being developed in September" per cleveland.com. One can hope that someone on the council actually reads the new Ohio law.
http://www.cleveland.com/hillcrest/index.ssf/2012/07/highland_heights_city_council_20.html
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Ohio pit bull roundup 7/14/2012, second Ohio fatality since the passage of HB14
HB 14 is shaping up to be a disaster for Ohio residents. In the 4 1/2 short months since the passage of the bill two Ohio residents have been killed by pit bulls. This week there was another human fatality in Ohio, in the Cincinnati area to be exact, yes, the city that dropped their breed ban just a few weeks ago. This is a kind of big "oops" for the breed specific advocates who assured anyone who might listen "they are just like any other dog."
Ronnel Brown, age 40, the owner of a pit bull designer dog was attacked inside his apartment by a dog described as an Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog. Harold Dates of the Cincinnati SPCA explains this "rare breed" is a mix of bulldog and pit bull. Mr. Brown raised this dog from a puppy, the dog was 3 years old.
Ronnel Brown called the Cincinnati Fire Department stating that his dog had attacked him and that he thought he might pass out. Paramedics were unable to enter Brown's apartment because the dog was so aggressive. First responders were forced to wait for the arrival of police, who shot the dog. Ronnel Brown bled to death before assistance could be given. According to the Hamilton County Coroner's office, Brown was a dialysis patient with a dialysis access in his forearm and he suffered multiple bites to both arms. Brown's dialysis access was torn leading to profound blood loss.
Two puppies of the same breed as the attacking dog were found in the apartment. Unbelievably, there is a waiting list for adoption of these puppies.
http://www.wcpo.com/dpp/news/region_central_cincinnati/avondale/avondale-man-dies-after-attacked-by-dog
http://www.fox19.com/story/18997840/man-dies-after-being-mauled-by-dog
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More from Cincinnati. Now that pit bulls are no longer banned in the city they are being found running the streets. Cincinnati dropped its breed ban just a few short weeks ago. Good Samaritan Twon Johnson found a pit bull running loose and took it to the local Police Station. He was told to tie the dog to a pole outside the station and police would call the SPCA to pick it up. Per WLWT News, "Bringing the dog inside the station might have posed a threat to citizens." Police state they checked on the dog about every 20 minutes, bringing the dog water. The Cincinnati SPCA states that they received the call reporting the dog at 5:35 and a second call 90 minutes later reporting that the dog had died. This is not progress for Cincinnati.
http://www.wlwt.com/news/local-news/cincinnati/Dog-dies-outside-police-station/-/13549970/15435248/-/dthqgm/-/index.html
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From Dayton Ohio, County dog Warden and HB 14 advocate Mark Kumpf's territory. A woman walking her Jack Russell Terrier was charged by a pit bull running out of a house. The woman picked up her small dog to protect it. The small dog was bitten and the woman scratched. Per ABC22, "Despite a recent state law stating otherwise, pit bulls are still considered dangerous according to a city ordinance." Sgt. Paul Saunders of the Dayton Police said "In our mind, a pit bull is still a vicious dog. Regardless of the breed of dog, if the dog attacks another person, that in itself defines it as a vicious animal." The pit bull owner, who has two other pit bulls has been cited with failure to control and license a vicious animal. ABC22 also states that this is the second pit bull attack in two days. The first occurred the day before when a pit bull bit a toddler. That dog is under quarantine. See Pit bull roundup 7/5/2012.
http://www.abc22now.com/shared/news/top-stories/stories/wkef_vid_7493.shtml
http://www.whiotv.com/news/news/local/pit-bull-attacks-woman-her-jack-russell-terrier/nPnLP/
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More from Dayton Ohio. Dayton police were conducting an investigation of reported drug sales out of a house on Hulbert St. Kerry and Terry Pugh, twin brothers, were at the residence at the time of the raid, per WHIOTV. When police attempted to enter the home they were met by two pit bulls "that were in attack mode." Police attempted to subdue the dogs with a taser but this was not successful. "Police said one of the officers used a sub machine gun and shot both dogs multiple times." Montgomery County Animal Resource Center responded and picked up the dogs. Montgomery County Dog Warden Mark Kumpf stated the dogs were severely injured (by a sub machine gun? I would think so) and were euthanized. Dog Warden Kumpf will not have to go through the legal nightmare of HB 14 procedures to declare these dogs "dangerous."
http://www.whiotv.com/news/news/local/2-pit-bulls-shot-1-arrested-during-drug-raid/nPqNx/
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In Cleveland Ohio (where pit bull regulations were dropped late last year due to the efforts of a Cleveland Councilman who also owns a pit bull) Andrew Trefny dropped Molotov cocktails from a roof at police who were working another call. Possibly not a wise decision for Trefny, followed by yet another poor decision. Trefny became combative, then unleashed his pit bull on the officers. Per police reports, the pit bull bit an officer on the leg. Other officers opened fire on the attacking dog, killing it.
http://www.woio.com/story/18981909/cleveland-man-accused-of-using-his-dog-as-a -weapon
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Ohio pit bull roundup, 7/5/2012
This story is not what it appears at first glance. A pit bull owner tells a horror story about how her dog was stabbed by a stranger in a local park. Sounds outrageous, until you get the details.
http://fox8.com/2012/06/28/womans-dog-stabbed-in-euclid-metroparks/
Mary Burgett, owner of Max, a two year old pit bull mix, stated that she took Max to the Metroparks Euclid Creek Reservation for a walk. She describes another dog walker who spoke pleasantly as he passed her. Burgett goes on to state "Max got excited, wiggled out of his harness and went over to sniff the man's little white dog, in a playful manner." "He didn't bark, he didn't growl; he didn't anything and then the man started yelling he'll 'knife any dog that's not on a leash.' Next thing you know I saw his hand go down and he had the knife in his hand and just gushes of blood came out." Burgett claims that Max had already started walking back to her when the man stabbed him.
This story sounds pretty scary but it is not confirmed by any other witness, this is just Burgett's version. Burgett feels that the man with the knife may be mentally unstable and a danger to other park users.
Not so fast... Look at the video, it shows a very healthy and robust pit bull with three stitches. This dog is running easily without apparent pain. Contrast this with video of another small white dog, a victim of a pit bull attack http://youtu.be/XReDMeFEdxY. Please read the comments of owner of the small white dog.
Ms. Burgett apparently is not aware that pit bulls do not growl, bark, or show intention prior to an attack, but the owner of the little white dog knows this. Many men carry a pocket knife, this one used his knife to protect his canine companion. Burgett's off leash pit bull menaced another park patron's pet and he defended what was his.
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Moving on to Dayton Ohio, a two year old child was bitten in the face by the baby sitter's pit bull. The child required stitches in his face. The video on this story is interesting. The child's father is very forgiving but the pit bull owner appears in the news footage and her demeanor is very different. She is screaming that she had to have her pit bull, which she calls "my grandchild" put down. The reporter does her on-camera work in the lobby of the Montgomery County Shelter where the dog is clearly alive.
It is the duty of HB 14 advocate and Montgomery County Dog Warden Mark Kumpf to begin the legal process of declaring this dog dangerous. This pit bull owner only enjoyed a short respite from mandatory insurance on her pit bull. The containment requirements will be expensive.
http://www.whiotv.com/videos/news/dayton-2-year-old-bit-in-face-by-pit-bull/vcdmr/
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Cridersville Ohio is considering the possibility of adding legislation to continue to label pit bulls as potentially vicious. This legislation is supported by Police Chief John Drake, who stated "Seeing what I've dealt with, I think we need to designate pit bulls." Mayor Lorali Myers agrees "I think we need to be on the conservative side of the argument. I don't want blood on my hands." Myers said "I'm going to be very vocal on how I feel. I think we need to concentrate on the harm that can be done and not the likelihood of an attack." The common sense in Mayor Myers statement is breathtaking. The Ohio Legislature needs this kind of honesty and concern for the safety of the public.
Mayor Myers, please consider running for a State office!
http://www.wapakdailynews.com/content/pit-bull-talks-c%E2%80%99ville
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The final story for this blog is a surprisingly honest one. Two injured dogs were found in Elyria Ohio, their injuries consistent with dog fighting. A local veterinarian claimed that the female pit bull, called Diane, appeared to be a "bait dog" but an anonymous tipster said that Diane was "a fight dog and when she lost, she was abused and dumped."
Both dogs were taken in by Multiple Breed Rescue. Newsnet5 reporter Jen Steer writes "Just two days after her rescue, Diane appeared to be doing fine and was placed in a foster home. However MBR said rehabbing a fight dog is much different than rehabbing a bait dog." Spokesperson for MBR, Lauren Jacenty said "Her inner scars hurt too much and her fighting instinct was ingrained into her. MBR, with a heavy heart, had to let her go before someone was hurt or worse. It was not an easy decision, and by no means did we choose this lightly."
Diane did not deserve the suffering that her life brought her. Multiple Breed Rescue did the right thing, at the right time, without sensationalizing the issue. This organization deserves public support.
http://fox8.com/2012/06/28/womans-dog-stabbed-in-euclid-metroparks/
Mary Burgett, owner of Max, a two year old pit bull mix, stated that she took Max to the Metroparks Euclid Creek Reservation for a walk. She describes another dog walker who spoke pleasantly as he passed her. Burgett goes on to state "Max got excited, wiggled out of his harness and went over to sniff the man's little white dog, in a playful manner." "He didn't bark, he didn't growl; he didn't anything and then the man started yelling he'll 'knife any dog that's not on a leash.' Next thing you know I saw his hand go down and he had the knife in his hand and just gushes of blood came out." Burgett claims that Max had already started walking back to her when the man stabbed him.
This story sounds pretty scary but it is not confirmed by any other witness, this is just Burgett's version. Burgett feels that the man with the knife may be mentally unstable and a danger to other park users.
Not so fast... Look at the video, it shows a very healthy and robust pit bull with three stitches. This dog is running easily without apparent pain. Contrast this with video of another small white dog, a victim of a pit bull attack http://youtu.be/XReDMeFEdxY. Please read the comments of owner of the small white dog.
Ms. Burgett apparently is not aware that pit bulls do not growl, bark, or show intention prior to an attack, but the owner of the little white dog knows this. Many men carry a pocket knife, this one used his knife to protect his canine companion. Burgett's off leash pit bull menaced another park patron's pet and he defended what was his.
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Moving on to Dayton Ohio, a two year old child was bitten in the face by the baby sitter's pit bull. The child required stitches in his face. The video on this story is interesting. The child's father is very forgiving but the pit bull owner appears in the news footage and her demeanor is very different. She is screaming that she had to have her pit bull, which she calls "my grandchild" put down. The reporter does her on-camera work in the lobby of the Montgomery County Shelter where the dog is clearly alive.
It is the duty of HB 14 advocate and Montgomery County Dog Warden Mark Kumpf to begin the legal process of declaring this dog dangerous. This pit bull owner only enjoyed a short respite from mandatory insurance on her pit bull. The containment requirements will be expensive.
http://www.whiotv.com/videos/news/dayton-2-year-old-bit-in-face-by-pit-bull/vcdmr/
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Cridersville Ohio is considering the possibility of adding legislation to continue to label pit bulls as potentially vicious. This legislation is supported by Police Chief John Drake, who stated "Seeing what I've dealt with, I think we need to designate pit bulls." Mayor Lorali Myers agrees "I think we need to be on the conservative side of the argument. I don't want blood on my hands." Myers said "I'm going to be very vocal on how I feel. I think we need to concentrate on the harm that can be done and not the likelihood of an attack." The common sense in Mayor Myers statement is breathtaking. The Ohio Legislature needs this kind of honesty and concern for the safety of the public.
Mayor Myers, please consider running for a State office!
http://www.wapakdailynews.com/content/pit-bull-talks-c%E2%80%99ville
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The final story for this blog is a surprisingly honest one. Two injured dogs were found in Elyria Ohio, their injuries consistent with dog fighting. A local veterinarian claimed that the female pit bull, called Diane, appeared to be a "bait dog" but an anonymous tipster said that Diane was "a fight dog and when she lost, she was abused and dumped."
Both dogs were taken in by Multiple Breed Rescue. Newsnet5 reporter Jen Steer writes "Just two days after her rescue, Diane appeared to be doing fine and was placed in a foster home. However MBR said rehabbing a fight dog is much different than rehabbing a bait dog." Spokesperson for MBR, Lauren Jacenty said "Her inner scars hurt too much and her fighting instinct was ingrained into her. MBR, with a heavy heart, had to let her go before someone was hurt or worse. It was not an easy decision, and by no means did we choose this lightly."
Diane did not deserve the suffering that her life brought her. Multiple Breed Rescue did the right thing, at the right time, without sensationalizing the issue. This organization deserves public support.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Ohio Pit Bull Roundup 6/28/2012
Lima Ohio Police, assisting the Allen County Dog Warden in responding to a call regarding two pit bulls at large in a residential neighborhood, shot both pit bulls after the dogs lunged at police officers, and bit the dog warden. One pit bull was killed and one was wounded and remained at large. One of the bullets ricocheted and hit a neighborhood resident in the hand. Ronald Keller, 64, was transported to St. Rita's Medical Center and was listed in fair condition. Police later stated that they believe they have located the wounded pit bull but this has not yet been confirmed.
Ohio recently deregulated pit bulls but the City of Lima has retained their breed specific regulations. Lima residents are required to keep their pit bulls confined, leashed and muzzled while off property, and are prohibited from walking more than one pit bull at a time.
http://www.limaohio.com/news/dog-84939-pedestrian-one.html
http://www.limaohio.com/common/printer/view.php?db=limanews&id=84968
A Chillicothe Police Officer was attacked by a pit bull while he was investigating the theft of a cell phone. Officer Lucas Hansen was bitten on the face three times by the suspect's pit bull. Police Capt. Keith Washburn stated "He apprehended the guy and told him he was under arrest, and when he took him to the ground, the dog bit him." Responding officers used a stun gun on the dog in an atttempt to subdue it but the dog did not react, and eventually left the area. The Ross County Dog Warden found the dog at the suspect's home. The dog was taken as evidence and the suspect was charged with receiving stolen property, no liability insurance for the dog, obstructing, resisting, and dog at large. The liability insurance charge is expected to be dismissed, the Ohio Legislature recently changed state law and pit bulls no longer require insurance. According to the Chillicothe Gazette, local officials appear to feel that insurance is not required until there have been three or more convictions. Biting a police officer three times should earn this pit bull a dangerous dog designation and required insurance NOW.
http://www.chillicothegazette.com/article/20120621/NEWS01/206210308
In Youngstown Ohio, pit bull owner Delvin Williams is in Mahoning County jail. As the story goes, police were called to a South Side neighborhood by a man who stated he was bitten by a loose pit bull. The victim did not want to press charges but did request that the owner keep his dog tied up so no children in the area would be hurt. About a hour after the attack pit bull owner Delvin Williams approached the victim and asked why he called the police on the loose dog. The victim stated Willliams punched him in the face twice, and then pushed him off his own front porch, causing him to hit his head on the concrete pavement. The victim was taken to St. Elizabeth Medical Center for treatment, where he was listed in stable condition. Williams was arrested at his home and charged with felonious assault, and for two warrants, one for failure to pay child support and another for failing to appear in court on a traffic violation. This event should qualify Williams' pit bull as a dangerous dog.
http://www.vindy.com/news/2012/jun/26/beating-after-dog-attack-leads-to-charge/?print
Ohio recently deregulated pit bulls but the City of Lima has retained their breed specific regulations. Lima residents are required to keep their pit bulls confined, leashed and muzzled while off property, and are prohibited from walking more than one pit bull at a time.
http://www.limaohio.com/news/dog-84939-pedestrian-one.html
http://www.limaohio.com/common/printer/view.php?db=limanews&id=84968
A Chillicothe Police Officer was attacked by a pit bull while he was investigating the theft of a cell phone. Officer Lucas Hansen was bitten on the face three times by the suspect's pit bull. Police Capt. Keith Washburn stated "He apprehended the guy and told him he was under arrest, and when he took him to the ground, the dog bit him." Responding officers used a stun gun on the dog in an atttempt to subdue it but the dog did not react, and eventually left the area. The Ross County Dog Warden found the dog at the suspect's home. The dog was taken as evidence and the suspect was charged with receiving stolen property, no liability insurance for the dog, obstructing, resisting, and dog at large. The liability insurance charge is expected to be dismissed, the Ohio Legislature recently changed state law and pit bulls no longer require insurance. According to the Chillicothe Gazette, local officials appear to feel that insurance is not required until there have been three or more convictions. Biting a police officer three times should earn this pit bull a dangerous dog designation and required insurance NOW.
http://www.chillicothegazette.com/article/20120621/NEWS01/206210308
In Youngstown Ohio, pit bull owner Delvin Williams is in Mahoning County jail. As the story goes, police were called to a South Side neighborhood by a man who stated he was bitten by a loose pit bull. The victim did not want to press charges but did request that the owner keep his dog tied up so no children in the area would be hurt. About a hour after the attack pit bull owner Delvin Williams approached the victim and asked why he called the police on the loose dog. The victim stated Willliams punched him in the face twice, and then pushed him off his own front porch, causing him to hit his head on the concrete pavement. The victim was taken to St. Elizabeth Medical Center for treatment, where he was listed in stable condition. Williams was arrested at his home and charged with felonious assault, and for two warrants, one for failure to pay child support and another for failing to appear in court on a traffic violation. This event should qualify Williams' pit bull as a dangerous dog.
http://www.vindy.com/news/2012/jun/26/beating-after-dog-attack-leads-to-charge/?print
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Ohio's breed specific advoacte, Jean Keating
One constant in seven years of FOI documents relating to HB14, and previous attempts to remove regulation from pit bulls in Ohio is Jean Keating. There is never a point where Keating introduced herself by letter, no "Dear Legislator, my name is Jean Keating and I would like to share my thoughts with you." She turned up regularly with letters, pit bull advocacy material, and forwards of news stories on attacks by any other breed, but never comments on actual pit bull mauling deaths. Keating is a tremendous favorite of the Toledo Blade, she is frequently quoted and photographed. It is impossible to conceal her identity by simply calling her "the breed specific advocate" her public profile has been too high for too long. Keating is a co-founder of the Ohio Coalition of Dog Advocates and President of the Lucas County Pit Crew.
Keating is friendly with Barbara Sears, this is clear. Keating addresses Sears in letters as "Dear Barb." Some letters begin with business and end with status updates on Keating's children and mother. From the correspondence, it is not clear whether these two women have been friends in the community or their friendship is purely political. Keating wrote on several occasions "I will do anything to get this law passed." She pretty much did just that.
A letter to Representative Garrison, dated April 10, 2009 gives insight into what drives Keating. "I am a law abiding citizen and responsible dog owner, as such, I should have the right to own any breed of dog I believe I can properly care for. The failings of others should not restrict my rights. People can smoke and drink alcohol, even while pregnant. Those things have been proven to kill at alarming rates. There are millions of dogs in this country and less than 30 deaths per year from all breeds combined. That makes dogs remarkably safe. So why can't I own the dog of my choosing? I recognize that even though I am a responsible dog owner, others may not be. Why does their behavior destroy my rights?"
A letter to Sears dated April 13, 2009 gives additional thoughts. "Where does all this leave a responsible dog owner? Personally, it infuriates me and causes me to look through the real estate pages of neighboring Michigan. My own family dog has been Canine Good Citizen certified, has a microchip and is never taken into Toledo for fear he would be killed. As an AKC registered American Staffordshire Terrier, he isn't even a pit bull. (note - An AKC American Staffordshire Terrier may be double registered as a UKC American Pit Bull Terrier, obviously they are one and the same) However, according to the ORC he is vicious, he has never displayed a single aggressive behavior and yet I am subjected to restrictions that other owners aren't. My own son was bitten by a dog a few years ago and that dog's owner has no restrictions. Where is the sense in that? I think that is the nonsense that has caused Ohio citizens great grief. The experts know why dogs bites (sic), why aren't we listening?"
Early 2009 is the start of advocacy overdrive for Keating. Many letters and forwards of information taken from breed specific advocacy websites, comments on attacks and bites from different breeds, but no mention of serious pit bull maulings or deaths. It should be noted that in the United States there were 14 pit bull mauling deaths in 2009, but Keating had no comment on them. See notes below for an update on pit bull fatality statistics since 2009.
In a letter to Sears dated February 21, 2009 Keating wants the removal of the designation of vicious for pit bulls (which removes insurance and containment requirements). Due process was not a concern for Keating. (A bit later we will get to the reason for the due process addition to proposed changes in Ohio law.) Keating complains that despite the strong breed specific law in Toledo at that time, bite counts are going up so obviously the law is not working. A document provided by Lucas County and found in Barbara Sears records showing dog bite counts from 2001 to 2008 gives a different perspective.
In 2001 there were 697 dog bites recorded by the county
in 2002 there were 617 bites
in 2003 there were 550 bites
in 2004 there were 526 bites
in 2005 there were 432 bites
in 2006 there were 428 bites
in 2007 there were 329 bites
in 2008 there were 403 bites.
The trend is steadily downward for the period with a single year, 2007, as an outlier with a more significant drop in bites. In the setting of County dog bites, Keating's complaint looks dishonest. It must be noted that during the entire period covered by the table, Tom Skeldon was Dog Warden in Lucas County. Tom Skeldon was driven into retirement by personal and professional attacks from the Toledo Blade, and Keating's organizations. Attacks and service calls increased dramatically in the first year after Skeldon's retirement, as reported in the Toledo Blade. A January 31, 2011 Blade article by reporter JC Reindl states Dog Warden service calls increased to 5,427, up 162 from 2009. Dog attack investigations increased to 434, up from 357 in 2009.
In an additional letter to Sears, with the same date 2/21/2009, Keating gives her thoughts on changes to Ohio law. "There are also some states, like Virginia, that require "vicious dogs" to be registered differently and they pay higher license fees. I don't believe that people are going to like that, but it could be a concession later to appease some folks. If you search the Virginia Vicious Dog site, it lists the address, owner, breed, and offense the dog committed. That is harsh but it has created a safer state."
Keating does not think "people" will like to pay higher license fees for legally declared vicious dogs and a public listing of those dogs is "harsh"? What does Keating think about the medical bills generated by those legally declared vicious dogs? Without insurance the victims paid them, not the dog owner. A public listing of the dogs is "harsh"? That public listing allows neighbors to be aware of dangers in their neighborhood, it helps protect children. This is "harsh" for the dog owner? Has breed specific advocacy ever considered the rights of the peaceful public?
In a letter dated 3/19/2009 from Keating to Sears, Keating announces statements of support for HB79 (an earlier version of HB14) from Best Friends and the AKC. " I have put out requests to about 15 more national organizations asking for support. I should be able to give you a list by the end of the week of the responses I receive." It stuns me that a private citizen has taken it upon herself to negotiate Ohio law with special interest groups.
On April 2, 2009 Keating writes to Sears Legislative aide about a "letter writing party." "Annie, we had the first of our scheduled "letter writing parties" tonight. We had a great turnout and got coverage from two TV stations. I have about 150 letters to stuff in the mail." Were legislators made aware that the letters that were turning up in their mail were not spontaneous letters of support, but were generated wholesale, at the request of Keating?
A revealing letter from Keating, undated, but the letters she supplies were dated April 2009, gives additional insight into Keating's unbounded advocacy. "Some of the kids at the school where I work are doing a government project. They are upset that I don't bring my dogs to school anymore. I explained why to them and they wanted to help. Their teacher helped them but didn't understand that Barb introduced the bill. They worked so hard on their letters I said I would send them. Thanks, Jean" Jean Keating is using her job at a school to influence children to write to legislators in support of her own pet project. Were the children's parents aware of the manipulation of their sons and daughters?
Keating is the connection between Representative Sears and Best Friends Animal Society's Senior Legislative Attorney, Ledy Vankavage. In a Toledo Blade article dated 11/6/2009, "Dog Advocate says 'pit bulls' are unfairly demonized. Canine Profiling cited as ineffective approach" Blade writer Carl Ryan states that "Vankavage is Senior Legislative Analyst for Best Friends, the group that rescued disgraced NFL player Michael Vick's approximately 50 "pit bulls" which have been rehabilitated and adopted out." This statement is clearly not factual, Best Friends had little to do with the seizure of Vick's dogs. Best Friends took 22 of the dogs, most were to be lifelong sanctuary dogs. Reporter Ryan goes on to say "Ms. Vankavage was in Toledo at the invitation of Jean Keating and her organization The Ohio Coalition of Dog Advocates." Barbara Sears attended this meeting at the invitation of Keating.
I am going to digress a bit here, Please hang in there with me. Best Friends signed a contract as part of the process to receive the 22 high profile Vicktory pits bulls. One of the terms of contract stated that the dogs were not to be used for fund raising purposes but Best Friends has used these dogs in shameless solicitation of donations. A 2012 revision of Best Friends Terrier Initiatives page has removed acknowledgement of their agreement with the Federal Government not to use the Vick Dogs for fundraising and has removed the "Donate Now" button. The contract may be read here, the non fundraising clause is located on page 5 under Indemnification and Publicity, section H. Records are difficult to come by but it appears that only a few of the dogs taken by Best Friends have been placed but Best Friends has a new marketing program for some of the aging Vick pit bulls. Best Friends has put the Vicktory pit Layla on Petfinder. In the Petfinder ad Best Friends states that Layla is aggressive, should be the only "pet" in the household, and that she has Babesia, a communicable disease common in fighting pit bulls. Just what every neighborhood needs. The contract between Best Friends and the United States Government has this stipulation "The Rescue Organization will be prohibited from transferring the dog or dogs to another rescue organization without the written consent of the United States Department of Agriculture. This stipulation is located on page 8 of the document. Has Best Friends obtained the consent of the Federal Government to offer an acknowledged aggressive dog with a communicable disease on Petfinder? But I have strayed too far from my original story.
A letter dated 11/30/2009 from Vankavage to Representative Sears begins "It was a pleasure to meet you at the presentation on canine profiling...... As promised, here is a first draft of an amendment for HB79 (an earlier bill introduced by Sears to deregulate pit bulls) that might enable you to garner more support from urban legislators. (The addition of due process) Lauren Gallagher, our new public service attorney crafted the amendment. ... Please let me know if you need any more help. If you need me to come to testify at any hearings do not hesitate to call me." The attached document is an early form of HB 14. The article, letter, and document make it clear that Representative Sears worked with the Utah based animal rights PAC as early as 2009. Sears allowed an out-of-state animal rights PAC to write Ohio law, to suit the agenda of that PAC.
Keating was also the go-between to pass on the 2011 version of Ohio law, as written by Best Friends Animal Society to Barbara Sears. On February 17, 2011 Keating sends this to Sears "Barb, I am attaching comments from Laura Allen on Best Friends draft of Ohio's Dangerous Dog law for your review. Laura Allen is the founder of Animal Law Coalition and is an attorney who specializes in animal issues. She is also reviewing the due process language. Thanks, Jean Keating" Keating, a private citizen, appears to be working independently of the Ohio Legislature to negotiate changes to Ohio law.
We have looked at a great deal of background on the major forces behind HB 14. I will close this post with the story of Wendy the "Service Pit Bull in Training." Wendy made a personal appearance at the December 6, 2011 Senate hearing on HB 14. She was brought into the hearing room by Jean Keating. There was nothing subtle about Wendy's entrance, it was "enthusiastic" for lack of a better word. The white pit bull made a bee line for the row of seated pit bull advocates. She was welcomed by each one of them, it appeared that each one of them had food for the dog. Keating began to speak, Wendy paid no attention to her whatsoever.
"I have brought Wendy with me today. Wendy is being trained as a service animal for a young child with post-traumatic stress disorder, sensory integration dysfunction, low muscle tone, and panic attacks. Wendy was chosen because she has the temperament and physical characteristics to perform the work needed to assist this child in leading a more normal life. Those same physical characteristics currently identify Wendy as a vicious dog under Ohio law. The American Staffordshire Terrier, which is a breed commonly referred to as a pit bull type is a popular choice for a service animal because of some unique qualities. They are hardy, athletic, and very socially connected dogs. They are also very easy to train as they are eager to please."
During Keating's testimony Wendy stood at the end of her leash and looked about the room, wandering a bit and returning to her line of friends, and their handsful of food. Wendy proved to be such a distraction that Keating was unable to remain in the hearing room after her testimony. She took Wendy out into the hall, where Wendy killed time by barking.
Interestingly, this was not Wendy's first appearance at a Statehouse hearing. Wendy accompanied Keating to a hearing in the Ohio House in June of 2011. Actual service dogs in training are taught to remain quiet, lay down upon command, not seek attention or food from strangers, and focus attention on their handler. Wendy had none of these skills in December, what kind of "training" did she receive in the previous six months? This dog was chosen because she was "easy to train and eager to please?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Updated fatality statistics.
In 2009 there were 32 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 14 were due to pit bulls, 44%
In 2010 there were 33 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 22 were due to pit bulls, 67%
In 2011 there were 31 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 22 were due to pit bulls, 77%
In 2012 there were 38 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 23 were due to pit bulls, 61%
In 2013 from January 1st to March 1st there have been 5 fatal dog maulings in the United States. Of this total 5 were due to pit bulls, 100%
Keating is friendly with Barbara Sears, this is clear. Keating addresses Sears in letters as "Dear Barb." Some letters begin with business and end with status updates on Keating's children and mother. From the correspondence, it is not clear whether these two women have been friends in the community or their friendship is purely political. Keating wrote on several occasions "I will do anything to get this law passed." She pretty much did just that.
A letter to Representative Garrison, dated April 10, 2009 gives insight into what drives Keating. "I am a law abiding citizen and responsible dog owner, as such, I should have the right to own any breed of dog I believe I can properly care for. The failings of others should not restrict my rights. People can smoke and drink alcohol, even while pregnant. Those things have been proven to kill at alarming rates. There are millions of dogs in this country and less than 30 deaths per year from all breeds combined. That makes dogs remarkably safe. So why can't I own the dog of my choosing? I recognize that even though I am a responsible dog owner, others may not be. Why does their behavior destroy my rights?"
A letter to Sears dated April 13, 2009 gives additional thoughts. "Where does all this leave a responsible dog owner? Personally, it infuriates me and causes me to look through the real estate pages of neighboring Michigan. My own family dog has been Canine Good Citizen certified, has a microchip and is never taken into Toledo for fear he would be killed. As an AKC registered American Staffordshire Terrier, he isn't even a pit bull. (note - An AKC American Staffordshire Terrier may be double registered as a UKC American Pit Bull Terrier, obviously they are one and the same) However, according to the ORC he is vicious, he has never displayed a single aggressive behavior and yet I am subjected to restrictions that other owners aren't. My own son was bitten by a dog a few years ago and that dog's owner has no restrictions. Where is the sense in that? I think that is the nonsense that has caused Ohio citizens great grief. The experts know why dogs bites (sic), why aren't we listening?"
Early 2009 is the start of advocacy overdrive for Keating. Many letters and forwards of information taken from breed specific advocacy websites, comments on attacks and bites from different breeds, but no mention of serious pit bull maulings or deaths. It should be noted that in the United States there were 14 pit bull mauling deaths in 2009, but Keating had no comment on them. See notes below for an update on pit bull fatality statistics since 2009.
In a letter to Sears dated February 21, 2009 Keating wants the removal of the designation of vicious for pit bulls (which removes insurance and containment requirements). Due process was not a concern for Keating. (A bit later we will get to the reason for the due process addition to proposed changes in Ohio law.) Keating complains that despite the strong breed specific law in Toledo at that time, bite counts are going up so obviously the law is not working. A document provided by Lucas County and found in Barbara Sears records showing dog bite counts from 2001 to 2008 gives a different perspective.
In 2001 there were 697 dog bites recorded by the county
in 2002 there were 617 bites
in 2003 there were 550 bites
in 2004 there were 526 bites
in 2005 there were 432 bites
in 2006 there were 428 bites
in 2007 there were 329 bites
in 2008 there were 403 bites.
The trend is steadily downward for the period with a single year, 2007, as an outlier with a more significant drop in bites. In the setting of County dog bites, Keating's complaint looks dishonest. It must be noted that during the entire period covered by the table, Tom Skeldon was Dog Warden in Lucas County. Tom Skeldon was driven into retirement by personal and professional attacks from the Toledo Blade, and Keating's organizations. Attacks and service calls increased dramatically in the first year after Skeldon's retirement, as reported in the Toledo Blade. A January 31, 2011 Blade article by reporter JC Reindl states Dog Warden service calls increased to 5,427, up 162 from 2009. Dog attack investigations increased to 434, up from 357 in 2009.
In an additional letter to Sears, with the same date 2/21/2009, Keating gives her thoughts on changes to Ohio law. "There are also some states, like Virginia, that require "vicious dogs" to be registered differently and they pay higher license fees. I don't believe that people are going to like that, but it could be a concession later to appease some folks. If you search the Virginia Vicious Dog site, it lists the address, owner, breed, and offense the dog committed. That is harsh but it has created a safer state."
Keating does not think "people" will like to pay higher license fees for legally declared vicious dogs and a public listing of those dogs is "harsh"? What does Keating think about the medical bills generated by those legally declared vicious dogs? Without insurance the victims paid them, not the dog owner. A public listing of the dogs is "harsh"? That public listing allows neighbors to be aware of dangers in their neighborhood, it helps protect children. This is "harsh" for the dog owner? Has breed specific advocacy ever considered the rights of the peaceful public?
In a letter dated 3/19/2009 from Keating to Sears, Keating announces statements of support for HB79 (an earlier version of HB14) from Best Friends and the AKC. " I have put out requests to about 15 more national organizations asking for support. I should be able to give you a list by the end of the week of the responses I receive." It stuns me that a private citizen has taken it upon herself to negotiate Ohio law with special interest groups.
On April 2, 2009 Keating writes to Sears Legislative aide about a "letter writing party." "Annie, we had the first of our scheduled "letter writing parties" tonight. We had a great turnout and got coverage from two TV stations. I have about 150 letters to stuff in the mail." Were legislators made aware that the letters that were turning up in their mail were not spontaneous letters of support, but were generated wholesale, at the request of Keating?
A revealing letter from Keating, undated, but the letters she supplies were dated April 2009, gives additional insight into Keating's unbounded advocacy. "Some of the kids at the school where I work are doing a government project. They are upset that I don't bring my dogs to school anymore. I explained why to them and they wanted to help. Their teacher helped them but didn't understand that Barb introduced the bill. They worked so hard on their letters I said I would send them. Thanks, Jean" Jean Keating is using her job at a school to influence children to write to legislators in support of her own pet project. Were the children's parents aware of the manipulation of their sons and daughters?
Keating is the connection between Representative Sears and Best Friends Animal Society's Senior Legislative Attorney, Ledy Vankavage. In a Toledo Blade article dated 11/6/2009, "Dog Advocate says 'pit bulls' are unfairly demonized. Canine Profiling cited as ineffective approach" Blade writer Carl Ryan states that "Vankavage is Senior Legislative Analyst for Best Friends, the group that rescued disgraced NFL player Michael Vick's approximately 50 "pit bulls" which have been rehabilitated and adopted out." This statement is clearly not factual, Best Friends had little to do with the seizure of Vick's dogs. Best Friends took 22 of the dogs, most were to be lifelong sanctuary dogs. Reporter Ryan goes on to say "Ms. Vankavage was in Toledo at the invitation of Jean Keating and her organization The Ohio Coalition of Dog Advocates." Barbara Sears attended this meeting at the invitation of Keating.
I am going to digress a bit here, Please hang in there with me. Best Friends signed a contract as part of the process to receive the 22 high profile Vicktory pits bulls. One of the terms of contract stated that the dogs were not to be used for fund raising purposes but Best Friends has used these dogs in shameless solicitation of donations. A 2012 revision of Best Friends Terrier Initiatives page has removed acknowledgement of their agreement with the Federal Government not to use the Vick Dogs for fundraising and has removed the "Donate Now" button. The contract may be read here, the non fundraising clause is located on page 5 under Indemnification and Publicity, section H. Records are difficult to come by but it appears that only a few of the dogs taken by Best Friends have been placed but Best Friends has a new marketing program for some of the aging Vick pit bulls. Best Friends has put the Vicktory pit Layla on Petfinder. In the Petfinder ad Best Friends states that Layla is aggressive, should be the only "pet" in the household, and that she has Babesia, a communicable disease common in fighting pit bulls. Just what every neighborhood needs. The contract between Best Friends and the United States Government has this stipulation "The Rescue Organization will be prohibited from transferring the dog or dogs to another rescue organization without the written consent of the United States Department of Agriculture. This stipulation is located on page 8 of the document. Has Best Friends obtained the consent of the Federal Government to offer an acknowledged aggressive dog with a communicable disease on Petfinder? But I have strayed too far from my original story.
A letter dated 11/30/2009 from Vankavage to Representative Sears begins "It was a pleasure to meet you at the presentation on canine profiling...... As promised, here is a first draft of an amendment for HB79 (an earlier bill introduced by Sears to deregulate pit bulls) that might enable you to garner more support from urban legislators. (The addition of due process) Lauren Gallagher, our new public service attorney crafted the amendment. ... Please let me know if you need any more help. If you need me to come to testify at any hearings do not hesitate to call me." The attached document is an early form of HB 14. The article, letter, and document make it clear that Representative Sears worked with the Utah based animal rights PAC as early as 2009. Sears allowed an out-of-state animal rights PAC to write Ohio law, to suit the agenda of that PAC.
Keating was also the go-between to pass on the 2011 version of Ohio law, as written by Best Friends Animal Society to Barbara Sears. On February 17, 2011 Keating sends this to Sears "Barb, I am attaching comments from Laura Allen on Best Friends draft of Ohio's Dangerous Dog law for your review. Laura Allen is the founder of Animal Law Coalition and is an attorney who specializes in animal issues. She is also reviewing the due process language. Thanks, Jean Keating" Keating, a private citizen, appears to be working independently of the Ohio Legislature to negotiate changes to Ohio law.
We have looked at a great deal of background on the major forces behind HB 14. I will close this post with the story of Wendy the "Service Pit Bull in Training." Wendy made a personal appearance at the December 6, 2011 Senate hearing on HB 14. She was brought into the hearing room by Jean Keating. There was nothing subtle about Wendy's entrance, it was "enthusiastic" for lack of a better word. The white pit bull made a bee line for the row of seated pit bull advocates. She was welcomed by each one of them, it appeared that each one of them had food for the dog. Keating began to speak, Wendy paid no attention to her whatsoever.
"I have brought Wendy with me today. Wendy is being trained as a service animal for a young child with post-traumatic stress disorder, sensory integration dysfunction, low muscle tone, and panic attacks. Wendy was chosen because she has the temperament and physical characteristics to perform the work needed to assist this child in leading a more normal life. Those same physical characteristics currently identify Wendy as a vicious dog under Ohio law. The American Staffordshire Terrier, which is a breed commonly referred to as a pit bull type is a popular choice for a service animal because of some unique qualities. They are hardy, athletic, and very socially connected dogs. They are also very easy to train as they are eager to please."
During Keating's testimony Wendy stood at the end of her leash and looked about the room, wandering a bit and returning to her line of friends, and their handsful of food. Wendy proved to be such a distraction that Keating was unable to remain in the hearing room after her testimony. She took Wendy out into the hall, where Wendy killed time by barking.
Interestingly, this was not Wendy's first appearance at a Statehouse hearing. Wendy accompanied Keating to a hearing in the Ohio House in June of 2011. Actual service dogs in training are taught to remain quiet, lay down upon command, not seek attention or food from strangers, and focus attention on their handler. Wendy had none of these skills in December, what kind of "training" did she receive in the previous six months? This dog was chosen because she was "easy to train and eager to please?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Updated fatality statistics.
In 2009 there were 32 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 14 were due to pit bulls, 44%
In 2010 there were 33 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 22 were due to pit bulls, 67%
In 2011 there were 31 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 22 were due to pit bulls, 77%
In 2012 there were 38 dog mauling fatalities in the United States. Of this total 23 were due to pit bulls, 61%
In 2013 from January 1st to March 1st there have been 5 fatal dog maulings in the United States. Of this total 5 were due to pit bulls, 100%
Monday, June 18, 2012
Ohio pit bulls in the news, 6/18/2012, and United States pit bull mauling deaths so far this month
In Oberlin Ohio, home of very expensive Oberlin College, an Oberlin Police officer shot a pit bull while he was attempting to arrest 20 year old Lewis Wade. Wade originally had one loose pit bull and was given a warning by the Police Officer. Wade did not see the warning as a positive and responded with obscenities. He told the Officer "I got something for you" and turned two more pit bulls loose. The Police officer attempted to draw his taser but was bitten on the hand, he was forced to shoot one of the pit bulls. Wade was charged with assault on an officer, resisting arrest, obstruction of official business and animals at large. Biting and menacing a Police Officer merits a dangerous dog designation per new Ohio law.
http://morningjournal.com/articles/2012/06/13/news/mj6345926.txt
In Sandusky Ohio, a twelve year old boy was 'bitten at least five times." Bites were found on the boy's chest, arms and legs. The boy was treated at a local hospital, the pit bull is still at large.
http://www.sanduskyregister.com/sandusky/news/pitbull-bites-sandusky-boy
In Dayton Ohio, a two year old pit bull named Louis Vuitton killed a chihuahua named Mr Socks, in full view of the chihuahua's owner, Melissa Clark and her seven year old son. Clark stated "I turned and looked and out comes this big (expletive) brown and white pit bull. He comes charging at my chihuahua and he didn't even stop." Louis Vuitton dragged the little dog into the woods behind the apartments and killed it. The pit owner, Jerrica Lewis, apologised and offered to replace the Clark's pet, stating "He's never attacked any other small dog."
Louis Vuitton has now killed a small dog in an unprovoked attack. Will County Dog Warden Mark Kumpf take appropriate action to protect Dayton residents from further "accidents," per Ohio law? Dog Warden Kumpf strongly supported HB 14 as a way to take action against dangerous dogs.
http://abc.daytonsnewssource.com/shared/newsroom/top_stories/videos/wkef_vid_7094.shtml?wap=0
Just south of the Ohio state line, in West Virginia, two year old Jack Redin was killed by pit bull mix dogs contained by an underground electric fence, on the property of a neighbor. Jack wandered into the yard and was quickly missed by his family. Jack's father Lonnie found his son's body. Funeral services were scheduled for June 16th in Parkersburg. The owner of the property claims that the dogs do not belong to him, he was taking care of them for his brother. The death of this beautiful child is a tragedy. Electric fences are inappropriate for containing pit bulls, and for protecting small children from them.
http://www.wvmetronews.com/news.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=53261
An eight month old California infant was killed by 3 pit bulls. The dogs have a history of killing cats and have now killed a baby boy. Pit bull advocates continue to defend the breed, per their comments posted on news sites. Details are not clear, the mother may own the dogs or they may be owned by a roommate.
http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/8-Month-Old-Infant-Attacked-By-Dog-in-Lemon-Grove-159146105.html
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/jun/15/baby-dies-after-dog-bite-in-lemon-grove/
http://morningjournal.com/articles/2012/06/13/news/mj6345926.txt
In Sandusky Ohio, a twelve year old boy was 'bitten at least five times." Bites were found on the boy's chest, arms and legs. The boy was treated at a local hospital, the pit bull is still at large.
http://www.sanduskyregister.com/sandusky/news/pitbull-bites-sandusky-boy
In Dayton Ohio, a two year old pit bull named Louis Vuitton killed a chihuahua named Mr Socks, in full view of the chihuahua's owner, Melissa Clark and her seven year old son. Clark stated "I turned and looked and out comes this big (expletive) brown and white pit bull. He comes charging at my chihuahua and he didn't even stop." Louis Vuitton dragged the little dog into the woods behind the apartments and killed it. The pit owner, Jerrica Lewis, apologised and offered to replace the Clark's pet, stating "He's never attacked any other small dog."
Louis Vuitton has now killed a small dog in an unprovoked attack. Will County Dog Warden Mark Kumpf take appropriate action to protect Dayton residents from further "accidents," per Ohio law? Dog Warden Kumpf strongly supported HB 14 as a way to take action against dangerous dogs.
http://abc.daytonsnewssource.com/shared/newsroom/top_stories/videos/wkef_vid_7094.shtml?wap=0
Just south of the Ohio state line, in West Virginia, two year old Jack Redin was killed by pit bull mix dogs contained by an underground electric fence, on the property of a neighbor. Jack wandered into the yard and was quickly missed by his family. Jack's father Lonnie found his son's body. Funeral services were scheduled for June 16th in Parkersburg. The owner of the property claims that the dogs do not belong to him, he was taking care of them for his brother. The death of this beautiful child is a tragedy. Electric fences are inappropriate for containing pit bulls, and for protecting small children from them.
http://www.wvmetronews.com/news.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=53261
An eight month old California infant was killed by 3 pit bulls. The dogs have a history of killing cats and have now killed a baby boy. Pit bull advocates continue to defend the breed, per their comments posted on news sites. Details are not clear, the mother may own the dogs or they may be owned by a roommate.
http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/8-Month-Old-Infant-Attacked-By-Dog-in-Lemon-Grove-159146105.html
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/jun/15/baby-dies-after-dog-bite-in-lemon-grove/
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