Dubai Joins the Breed Ban Party - and names the usual suspects...but for rather unusual reasons.
Gulfnews.com reports that due to 'complaints' from the public about the risk of disease the following breeds of dogs must be restricted in residential areas, public places, markets and shopping centres from January 1, 2008:
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Bull Dog
Bull Terrier
Old English Bull Dog
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Tosa
Husky
Rottweiler
Doberman
Shar Pei
Perro de presa mallorquin/Bull Dog
Neapolitan Mastiff
Argentinean Mastiff
Miniature Bull Terrier
Canary dog fila brasilerio/ Brazilian Mastiff
The Dubai Municipality states: "All pet owners are hereby requested to keep their dogs on a leash on streets and beaches and not to walk them without muzzles.
"Owners shall be responsible for any damage resulted from their non-compliance. Dubai Municipality will confiscate dogs if they cause harm or pose a threat to people, animals and property."
Dr Hesham Fahami, head of veterinary services at Dubai Municipality yesterday said the directive has been issued keeping in mind public welfare.
He said: "One of the main reasons for the circular to be brought out is to protect the public from animal-related diseases. The breeds that have been brought under question are the ones that are not suitable to be raised in apartments. They can pose a danger to children. We have acted on numerous complaints received from the general public."
(AHA!! Apartment dogs. Anything bigger than a beagle. So small dogs don't carry diseases or threaten children?)
K9 Friends Jackie Ratcliffe said "What we would like to know is why those breeds are targeted. Does it mean they will be banned from being bred here. The circular surprised me. If dogs are living in a situation where dog fighting takes place or are not looked after properly any dog can turn bad. For example a Husky should not be brought into this country because the climate is unsuitable for them but they are not dangerous."
K9 Friends had been bombarded with calls from dog owners.
"People who have these dogs are worried somebody will come and confiscate them. We should understand that every dog is an individual."
Yes, indeed Jackie, and also that the idealogues don't let fact get in the way of their idealistic future fiction.
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