Madisonville Changes Mind on Pit Bull Ordinance

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Posted: 9:46 PM Jul 17, 2008
Last Updated: 10:39 PM Jul 17, 2008
Reporter: Joe Brown
Email Address: brown@kbtx.com

94 comments

A | A | A

The city of Madisonville created a fire storm of controversy last February when it passed an ordinance banning pit bulls. Now, city leaders have had a change of heart.

The city council amended the ordinance Monday to remove the ban on pit bulls. The ordinance now more closely resembles vicious animal ordinances found in other cities.

The changes include the elimination of all references to a specific breed, namely pit bulls. Also gone are restrictions and fees placed on pit bull owners who were grand fathered under the ordinance. Plus, the prohibition on new pit bulls being introduced into the city was eliminated.

The city came under fire from dog lovers across the country when the breed-specific law was implemented last winter.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 02:10 PM
Texas Stats http://www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/TexasStats.asp Worried about kids? [quote]Furthermore, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: In 2005, one hundred and ninety-seven (197) Texas children died as a result of maltreatment (abuse or neglect). In a SINGLE YEAR, 2005, nearly FIVE TIMES as many Texas children died from maltreatment (abuse or neglect) than the TOTAL from ALL dog attacks in Texas over the past 43 years. [/quote] They should be supervised around ALL dogs and really,really supervised around their parents/Caretakers.

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 02:06 PM
A few of the "thug" owners and their dogs Detection K9`s http://www.lawdogsusa.org/lawdogs.html SAR Dogs http://www.forpitssake.org/sar.html Therapy Dogs http://www.forpitssake.org/therapy.html Purina 2007 IDC National Champion http://wallacethepitbull.com/ Therapy Dog-Rescued from Vick now certified http://www.ourpack.org/leo.html Dogs with Titles-CGC,TDI,Agility http://www.badrap.org/rescue/hall_of_fame.cfm http://www.understand-a-bull.com/DogSurvey.htm More Wallace http://ca.youtube.com/user/wallacethepitbull Just plain old Pets http://server.inalbum.com/show/jodipreis/Message_to_the_Media2.html?296033009 Those "killer dogs" rescued from Vick http://www.badrap.org/rescue/vick/ Hang in there Alisha Those that know nothing, make ridiculous statements and cite Newspaper Stories as "proof" Yeah they`re credible http://www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/media1.asp

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:52 PM
For those actually interested in learning about "Pit Bulls" Check out http://www.animalfarmfoundation.org/section.php?id=5

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:50 PM
[quote] Pitbull Jaws are made for crushing, ripping, and tearing.Inflict much more damage than other dog breeds.[/quote] Really? http://www.sconet.state.oh.us/rod/docs/pdf/6/2006/2006-ohio-975.pdf [quote]Dr. I. Lerh Brisbin, Ph.D as well as other experts, testified (See Page #7) that pit bulls do not have locking jaws. Based on actual dog dissections and measurements of their skulls, the evidence demonstrated that pit bull jaw muscles and bone structure are the same as other similarly sized dogs. No evidence was presented to demonstrate that a pit bull’s bite is any stronger than other dogs of its size and build. Dr. Brisbin testified that contrary to information relied upon and perpetuated by earlier case law and law review articles, assertions that a pit bull can bite with a “force of 2,000 pounds per square inch” have absolutely no basis in fact or scientific proof.[/quote]

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:44 PM
[quote]Maybe you should sign up for statistics 101....IF a million kids play on monkey bars today and 10 of them get seriously hurt, and 100 kids are in close contact with pits today and 2 of them get seriously hurt, which is the most dangerous? Answer: the pits, by 2000 percent.][/quote] Very good & that`s why there are NO REAL Statistics on Dog bites! Now maybe you should sign up for Statistics 201 before spouting off about Statistics that don`t exist!Clear enough? Dog Bite Statistics: Science or Junk Science? http://www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/dogbites1.asp [quote]There is currently no accurate way to identify the number of dogs of a particular breed, and consequently no measure to determine which breeds are more likely to bite or kill."[/quote] There is also NO National Organizations in the U.S. or Canada that collect dog bite info on a systematic basis.

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:33 PM
[quote]Bryan Resident - ...been mauled but he probably would not be alive. That's the difference - don't ya'll get it yet.[/quote] How about you try getting it! Match the fatal injuries to the Breed. http://www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/canineaggression.asp [quote]It is virtually impossible for anyone to match the breed of dog with the fatal injuries listed above - as such - claims that one breed of dog inflicts injuries unlike other breeds have no merit. [/quote]

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:27 PM
[quote]Hey fools, another baby was mauled by a pitt bull, read the news. It sure wasnt a poodle.[/quote] Hey Fool! Don`t believe everything you read in Newspapers. The Media: A Reliable Source of Information on Dog Attacks? http://www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/media1.asp Oh yeah the latest retraction that won`t make it into 200 Newspapers around the World. http://www.wpxi.com/news/16983248/detail.html [quote]Investigators said an American bulldog, not a pit bull as originally believed, mauled Rocco Doman Saturday.[/quote]

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:21 PM
[quote]Other dogs attack, yes, but the pitbull attacks with the intnetion of killing ....[/quote] More nonsense. Dogs don`t form intent.Dogs react 36 Breeds have killed in the U.S. 50 worldwide. Fatalities are VERY rare. "Pit Bulls" do NOT cause injuries unlike other dogs! http://www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/canineaggression.asp Match the fatal injuries to the 15 Breeds listed. All Breeds on list involved in more than 1 fatality. Note the cute,little,big,fluffy,etc etc Breeds on the list. Bites and/or fatalities are NOT Breed Specific.

Posted by: Dawg Location: U.S. on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:13 PM
[quote] What needs to be in the law is the recognition that the pitbull and pitbull type dog constitute the greatest threat--the fact is that pitbulls are the dogs that do a huge majority of fatal dog attacks).[/quote] The Fact is,is that your statement is absolute Nonsense. http://www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/dogbites1.asp [quote]Each year, 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs. These bites result in approximately 16 fatalities; about 0.0002 percent of the total number of people bitten. These relatively few fatalities offer the only available information about breeds involved in dog bites. There is currently no accurate way to identify the number of dogs of a particular breed, and consequently no measure to determine which breeds are more likely to bite or kill." http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/biteprevention.htm[/quote]

Posted by: Rampage Location: Austin on Aug 3, 2008 at 11:38 PM
Lots of ignorant simple minded people leaving comments here. If we end up banning pit bulls, lets also ban guns. I am pretty sure they kill several times more kids than pit bulls do. I don't care about your rights to own a gun, just as you don't care about my right to own a pit bull. So if we ban one, lets ban the other. Cheers.

Posted by: Mike Location: Sugar Land on Jul 30, 2008 at 08:01 AM
I have two instances of Pit Bulls getting loose from their owners. One time I saw a pair on going to work and let them go about their business and found out that day they attacked my neighbor. The next I had one come in the yard and attack our dog. Next one that comes on my property will be shot and ask questions later.

Posted by: Sue Location: Madisonville on Jul 29, 2008 at 07:23 AM
Today, July 29th, 2008-- a judge in College Station ordered "Polar Bear", a pitbull his owner says he bought "for protection", to be euthanized after he bit a CS policman, put another CS policeman on the roof of a car, and had previously bitten off a little girl's finger thru his fence. Thank God this pitbull, described as one of the most visious dogs ever seen by the animal control officer, will be killed before he has another chnace to kill someone. But, hey, it is not that sweet pitbull's fault. The fault lies with that irresponsible pitbull owner, right, Alisha? No matter whose fault, you still endup with mauled and dead people where pitbulls are involved.

Posted by: John Location: Madisonville on Jul 27, 2008 at 12:50 PM
The law is already in place for dangerous dogs. What needs to be in the law is the recognition that the pitbull and pitbull type dog constitute the greatest threat--the fact is that pitbulls are the dogs that do a huge majority of fatal dog attacks).The pitbull is the greatest dog threat to humans, and should be labeled as such a threat, with a legal consequence in the law for owning this type dog. I personally would ban all pitbulls --destroy them all--as too dangerous to take the chance they will kill humans. We need to find a way to legally prevent this dog from ever having the chance to kill. Not an easy task when we have folks that love these dogs and will never see what a danger they can be to others and to themselves. Pray these beloved dogs never have the opportunity to kill or injure anything or anyone.

Posted by: Alisha Location: Madisonville on Jul 25, 2008 at 11:22 PM
If you have a problem with these dogs, then you all should have gone to the city council meetings and said your opinion on the matter. I stood up for my beliefs... you should have stood up for yours!! Can't complain if you didn't let your voice be heard! My neighbors don't have a problem with my dogs, and that's all that matters to me.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Madisonville on Jul 25, 2008 at 03:49 PM
So when Alisha's pet pitbulls eventually kill something or someone--and they will---Alisha will be labeled one of those irresposible pitbull owners? Sadly, you Gotta love it.

Posted by: David Location: Madisonville on Jul 25, 2008 at 03:46 PM
Alisha: The problem is not me owning apitbull--I would not have one! The problem is you owning a pitbull or two! That pitbull owned by you might never harm you or your family but would more than likely kill me or my family or an innocent child or anyone who gets into their space. I say kill them all so no one can have them and no more maulings or fatal attacks will ever happen again by a pitbull. Other dogs attack, yes, but the pitbull attacks with the intnetion of killing whatever it is attacking, another dog, a horse, a calf, a cat, a baby, a child, an adult. Doesn't matter what it is, the pitbull intends to kill it.

Posted by: Bryan Man Location: Bryan on Jul 24, 2008 at 06:04 PM
Go to pitbulllovers.com and you will see in plain English that Jason, the blogger, says that in every instance of a fatal pitbull attack it is the irresponsible owner at fault..it is never the pitbull that is at fault for attacking and killing someone!!! What crap! The pitbull is bred to kill and will kill animals and humans if the opportunity arises. Even this website says you cant trust pitbulls! What a hypocrite!

Posted by: Informed Location: Madisonville on Jul 24, 2008 at 05:34 PM
July 23, 2008--Jackson Mississippi--Police efuse to name the three-year-old child that was killed by a pitbull, saying it is not a criminal matter. The child was killed by the pitbull when he wandered into a carport when the pitbull was chained. You can google this to verify. So, I already know what pitbull defenders are going to say: The little child should not have entered the dog's area; the little child got what he deserved for entering the dog's area; The little child should have known better. What I say is all pitbulls should be killed and not exist on the face of the earth. No need EVER!!!! for anyone to have a vicious pitbull and no chance should be taken as even the "sweet nice" pitbulls can become vicious and kill at a moments notice. It is inbred in them.

Posted by: Alisha Location: Madisonville on Jul 24, 2008 at 05:29 PM
If you don't like these dogs, you don't have to own one. I love my two... They are family to us, including my two children. I am one that went to city council to fight this, and I am happy with the decision. And whoever said dogs chained to trees is a sign of drug use is crazy. I do not believe in chaining a dog, but I do not believe that is a sign of drug use or dog fighting. Sometimes people just can't afford to build a fence. But like I said, I do not agree with chaining a dog up. And the reason why they had to change the law is because it was illegal in the first place!!!!! I LOVE MY PIT BULLS!!!

Posted by: Julie Location: College Station on Jul 23, 2008 at 02:30 PM
Breed Discrimination that's what it is.

Posted by: Once again Location: Iola on Jul 23, 2008 at 10:52 AM
Hey fools, another baby was mauled by a pitt bull, read the news. It sure wasnt a poodle.

Posted by: paw Location: Madisonville on Jul 22, 2008 at 07:14 PM
Informed in Madisonville, seems you got my point. However, I didn't defend anyone. I simply gave more information.

Posted by: DLC on Jul 22, 2008 at 04:47 PM
Bryan Resident - Luckily it was not a pitbull that attached your brother - not only would his face have been mauled but he probably would not be alive. That's the difference - don't ya'll get it yet.

Posted by: Informed Location: madisonville on Jul 22, 2008 at 01:53 PM
Hey, Paw: You said "pitbulls are not the only breed to turn on their masters." That's true. Why didnt you say: "Pitbulls are not the only breed that turn on and KILL their masters?" You cant say that because it is not true. Pitbills are the breed that MOST DOES turn on their masters and KILL. You pitbull defenders try to keep it to "attacked", "agressive". or "turned on", rather than "killed", "ripped to pieces", "shredded to death" as that is what the result is when a pitbull attacks. The pitbull not only attacks, HE ATTACKS TO KILL!!!! That is what pitbull lovers don't get!All you pitbull defenders are in denial that they attack and kill people more than any other breed.

Posted by: Bryan Resident Location: Bryan on Jul 22, 2008 at 12:24 PM
cs resident, you are so misinformed and worthless and scared yourself. I have raised Pit-Bulls for 15 years and have never had one turn. Put that in your pipe and smoke that!Not to mention I have children too! Pit Bull owners are far from scared so you need to know a little something before you bump your gums! There are idiots out there, like yourself, who do not know how to raise a dog that CAN be capable as can LOTS OF OTHER DOGS of attacking or turning. Stupidity is a common thing and unfortunately because of big mouth individuals that have probabley never owned a Pit they ALL get a bad rap. My brothers entire face was mauled by a German Sheppard. You don't hear about that though do you? They are what you make them and if you get a bad one that can't be tamed, euthanize them. The "GOOD PITBULL" gets a bad rap again!

Posted by: AG Location: Texas on Jul 21, 2008 at 11:39 PM
So why not just ban the pit bull owners? See, problem solved.

Posted by: Amy on Jul 21, 2008 at 01:33 PM
"Pit bull hater" that is a horrible story I can't believe that happened to your horse. But I am glad that he made it. You know it's possible that the dog tasted blood and that is why he became so vicious. Once these types of dogs get that taste in their mouths then they quickly turn on you and start attacking everything in sight. It is a blessing that your grandkids just happened not to be home at the time God knows what could have happened had they been there. I have no doubt that that dog would have mauled them. It's a good thing it's dead!

Posted by: paw Location: Madisonville on Jul 21, 2008 at 01:33 PM
This ordinance did not become an issue in Madisonville because a human had been harmed. It seems it was nothing more than an attempted political alliance. Someone’s Chihuahua had been bitten by a pit bull, and that person promised to swing votes in return for passing the ordinance. Since the politician who was allegedly involved is no longer in the political arena, the ordinance was deemed no longer of any value. It seems, pit bulls are not the only breed known to turn on their masters. PS: It's unclear if the chihuahua started the fight or not

Posted by: cs resident Location: cs on Jul 21, 2008 at 12:14 PM
Pit bulls are all worthless just like all of there owners..it should be illegal to own them. I don't want to hear this sweet dog nonsense...they are killers!! There owners are chicken thats why they have them to hide behind!

Posted by: Abe Conesa Location: Princeton New Jersey on Jul 21, 2008 at 12:02 PM
get informed http://www.lawdogsusa.org/home.html

Posted by: Lindsay,BadMath Location: Coll.Sta. on Jul 21, 2008 at 09:17 AM
Lindsay, Of course children in general are more likely to die from falling off play ground equipment than from bit bull attacks. That's because millions of children play on play ground equipment every day (called a baseline rate). You can not directly compare the number of injuries/deaths due to play ground falls vs pit bulls attacks because a much, much, much smaller number of children are around pit bulls. Maybe you should sign up for statistics 101 before you do any more spouting off. [Here's another way to look at it in case it's still not clear: IF a million kids play on monkey bars today and 10 of them get seriously hurt, and 100 kids are in close contact with pits today and 2 of them get seriously hurt, which is the most dangerous? Answer: the pits, by 2000 percent. (I made up these numbers to demonstrate the math.)]

Posted by: Amy W. on Jul 21, 2008 at 08:36 AM
Dave you are right, any dog does have the potential to be aggressive. But the truth is pit bulls are extremely temperamental animals. It's just in there nature; I have seen it first hand. Not to say that they are not good dogs, I agree that they can be very loyal. You just have to be very careful and take precautions especially when they are around your kids.

Posted by: Lizzy Location: CS on Jul 20, 2008 at 10:26 PM
Get a clue Dave!

Posted by: Jackie Ray Location: Bryan on Jul 20, 2008 at 04:39 PM
"A dog is as good as its owner"?????? Wonder what all those dead owners of pitbulls that were killed by their own sweet pitbulls would think about that statement--- or the owners whose children were killed by the pitbull that was the family pet?

Posted by: Deryl Location: CS on Jul 20, 2008 at 04:26 PM
Ole Dave must own a pit or two and can't read what is writen factually and truthfully about the danger of pitbulls. Many dog breeds are agressive, yes, and many dogs attack people, but don't kill those people. It is the pitbull and that type dog that attack and kill people the most. Pitbull Jaws are made for crushing, ripping, and tearing.Inflict much more damage than other dog breeds. Originally Bred to kill animals many years ago. Inbred in the pit to kill and not just attack. Have your pitbull if you want,Dave, but be aware it can be a killer at a moment's notice. Could easily kill you. Unpredictable and dangerous dogs whose attack is usually life-threatening. A good way to get rid of fools is let them all have a pitbull. Only remove all children and other innocent people. Dave, hope you and your family stay safe.

Posted by: Abby Location: Bryan on Jul 20, 2008 at 04:17 PM
Ok, Dave, we are not talking about agressive dogs here--we are talking about dangerous dogs that committ murder.Pitbull is leading dog that commits murder --kills people and lots of animals too. Why is that so hard for you pitbull lovers to admit when it is the truth? Hope your kid is one that is not killed when your pit turns on them or you. Read up on it and you would know it was many times the FAMILY PITBULL THAT KILLED the child or old person in the family.

Posted by: Observer Location: Bryan on Jul 20, 2008 at 04:13 PM
To Dave: Give you a break? All dogs can be aggressive is a true statement. However, not all agressive dogs kill---killer dogs are mainly pitbulls or pitbull types--by a very wide margin-- then Rottwielers...all of you in denial that pits are dangerous need to Google fatal dog attacks in the USA to get to the truth. I DARE YOU! You defenders of the pitbull won't like what you read.

Posted by: dave Location: CS on Jul 20, 2008 at 03:02 PM
People are so ignorant. Any dog has the potential to be agressive, just like any person or any other animal has the potential to be agressive. It's like saying that one race of people is more likely to be violent because of their race. C'mon, give me a break.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: BCS on Jul 20, 2008 at 01:32 PM
If I lived in a city like this I would have a dog like this. Madisonville Hearne Navasota and Bryan are the pits.

Posted by: Loser Police on Jul 20, 2008 at 08:16 AM
Dear Pit Bull Hater: The deputy should have also shot the dog owner! Loser!

Posted by: Pitbull hater Location: Bryan on Jul 19, 2008 at 10:59 PM
Hey Tim M. --Sorry to disappoint you but the horse story is true! Pitbull was born and raised right across road from us..a 2 year old male..real pretty dog but not all that friendly. To my knowledge he had never been out of his yard except on a leash,wasnt kept tied up, and had not been mistreated in any way. My horse survived--just barely--after a $1,600 vet bill and months of wondering if going to make it or not. Vet said it was a miracle Skipper survived as never saw such horrific injury and loss of blood. I truly believe if my grandkids had been out in the yard playing or at the barn, that pitbull would have attacked them! And I am not willing to take the chance he might not have attacked them. I tolerate no pitbulls or pit bull type dogs around my place or near my family. I take no chances. BTW, I hit the pitbull in the head with a metal pipe and had to knock him almost unconscious to get him to let go of my horse's nose. I was trying to kill him! A miracle he didn't get me, too!

Posted by: Julie Location: College Station on Jul 19, 2008 at 01:53 PM
According to Cesar Millan's latest book "Be The Pack Leader" Pit bulls have been the latest victims of breed prejudice the same way we do racial prejudice both are based on fear and ignorance. Our history has blamed the Irish, Native Americans, African Americans for all our problems. And the latest victims our the Latinos. Of course all thinking people realize that it's not race, b/c we have great people in every race. All Italians are not mafiosi, all Irish are not drunks, all African Americans are not all criminals, and Latinos are not lazy. But every decade or so, a new group of people come along for people to blame for their unhappiness. It's the same with dog breeds. In the seventies it was the German Shepherds, that were the vicious breed. In the eighties it was the Dobermans. In the nineties, everybody feared the Rottweiler, and since the nineties it's been the pit bulls that everyone blames. The more educated people become the more owners of powerful breeds take it seriously

Posted by: m.e. Location: madisonville on Jul 19, 2008 at 11:34 AM
tim m, all you have to do is google 'horse killed by pitt bull' and you will see numerous stories from across the nation of this taking place, so the story is true.....

Posted by: jf Location: madisonville on Jul 19, 2008 at 10:06 AM
lb, is that better, i will use my initials. just as good as anonymous, dont ya think. and statistics dont lie. pits tied to the trees are a very clear sign of heavy drug use and illegal dog fighting in madisonville. i live there, right in the middle of it. see it every day. so, lb, jf has spoken and revealed his identity. every on knows there is a big drug problem in madisonville, if you dont know it, you are dont live there. plus i am not saying anything negative about the pits, because a dog is as good as its owner.......

Posted by: Carrie Location: Texas on Jul 19, 2008 at 08:35 AM
Wow reading some of these posts really makes me sad.. some people are really unfamiliar with the "pitbull" breed. These are wonderful dogs and I believe if anything happens with any breed of dog the owner should be held responsibe. I don't know what I would do if a ban was placed on my town. Im guessing the childrens ministry that has been started around my Pitbull Flip would stop and the therapy that my pitbulls to at the nursing homes would also stop. it is scary to think that some people can have so much anger about things that they don't understand. I pray that this situation gets resolved and that the people of this town work hard to understand this very misunderstood breed. I also pray that other cities don't decide to ban animals when the real problem lies in the owners who are not responcible to handle any breed of animal.. God bless and just like people where scared of Jesus because they didn't understand him, doesn't mean they were right either..

Posted by: Snoopy Location: Doghouse on Jul 19, 2008 at 06:34 AM
Do you know how to tell a pitbull from an attorney? It's easy, pitbulls rarely carry cell phones.

Posted by: kingpin Location: rock city virgin islands on Jul 19, 2008 at 01:02 AM
straightup pitbulls are dog agressive not human agressive anyone with a sobby story was probably attacked by a pit mix or american bully

Posted by: I love my babies on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:53 PM
I have 2 pitbulls myself and they are the most loving dogs in the world. I have had my two since the day they were born and I have yet to see a mean bone in their body. My 6 year old loves our babies and they love her seeing them play together is one of the best things.

Posted by: Loser Police on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:53 PM
Pit bulls should be illegal. Period.

Posted by: jo jo Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:33 PM
I have raised pitbulls for over 30 years. I have had some wonderful dogs that have been great with children and have been wonderful family pets. I have also had some that turned vicious after about a year old for no good reason at all. All of this talk about it's how you raise the dog is bull. Yes i do believe that some dogs are taught and trained to fight and that those dogs become more aggresive, but the bottom line is that you have naturally aggresive individuals in any breed of dog. And to the people that defend the pitbull by saying that dachsunds are more aggresive, this may be true. But a dachsund is not likely to rip your face and scalp off of you if he attacks. A pitbull has a natural strong prey drive. It has been bred into them for hundreds of years. You cannot change the makeup of the dogs genetics. And the people that deny this are the ones who wind up on the cover of the newspaper with a mauled infant. All i'm saying is if you own them please be responsible.

Posted by: PitBull Owner RHB Location: New York on Jul 18, 2008 at 08:07 PM
Wholly tunnel vision batman! To Pitbull hater Brian, Anonymous, & Worry Mom: People, U have to understand animal behavior before making blanket judgements. Several of the cities in New York State are highly saturated with APBT and other pit bull typed dogs. In addition, its citizens live mostly in apartment settings of tens and even hundreds of units as an average. In fact, one owner had a tiger in either the Bronx or Manhattan. Sorry i digress..In such a highly condensed population of both human & pit bull, why do we not have your issues? B/c in the most part, we are responsible owners. WE LEASH every dog big/small. Your cities' problem is lack of leash law enforcement & hindering of proper containment. FACT: this breed as well as many other breeds HAVE PREY DRIVE. That horse was prey & any prey driven big dog would have done the same. YOU ATTACKED the dog & WONDER why it attacked U? If it dominated a "skinny" 800lbs horse, how did U win? b/c it was not Human aggressive.

Posted by: Lindsay Location: Oklahoma on Jul 18, 2008 at 07:59 PM
Tim, I just noticed your comment about statistics and playground equipment. Just wanted to mention how ironic it is that you should mention that, because statisically, your child is more likely to die falling off of the monkeybars than getting attacked by a dog. However, our human brains are still fairly primitive, and geared to respond fearfully towards something with pointy teeth, where we might not see the same danger in a brightly-painted jungle gym.

Posted by: Lindsay Location: Oklahoma on Jul 18, 2008 at 07:56 PM
I'm glad they dropped the ban. Vicious dog legislation protects everybody, wheras breed bans only address a portion of the population, and not always the right portion. Worried mom, people should think twice before getting ANY dog, since many people can't care for a goldfish, let alone a high-drive animal. Either way, let the law handle the true problems, not those that are merely the product of overactive imaginations. I own three American Pit Bull Terriers, and I take responsibility for my own. If everybody else would do the same, we'd all be better off.

Posted by: JPT Location: TX on Jul 18, 2008 at 05:57 PM
Worried mom: We already have laws like that, including recently passed Lillian's Law. One of the big moral problems with BSL is that it treats victims and potential victims of dog attacks differently based on the appearance of the dog threatening them. Madisonville and other places, by passing BSL, are basically discriminating against people who need protection from dogs that don't look like "pit bulls." If you think a kid mauled by a Chi is no biggie, you are a sick person. All you people complaining about mismanaged pit bulls--ever stop to think about laws that govern human behavior? Why not stop violent felons from owning any dog? Why not prohibit chaining? What about education? Why not treat the disease instead of the symptom? It's not the dogs' fault they're being abused and misused by miscreants. Why don't you fine upstanding citizens call authorities about cruelty, neglect, off-leash dogs, known drug houses, etc.? Do something to make your community better.

Posted by: Tim M Location: nashville on Jul 18, 2008 at 05:09 PM
they guy with the horse story is a liar, did you have a minature horse? Are we to believe that a dog killed an animal many times it size, but did nothing to you when you beat, but yet it attacked a horse unprovoked? I smell BS. My fathers horse kicked and stomped 2 dogs twice the size of the average pitbull to death at the same time. This is why they get a bad rap, sensational story, hardly true. How many kids are raped by their family memebers and killed? i think we have something better to do with our time. I understand if someone who has been attacked has an opinion, you'll never change that perception. I have had these dogs for 20 years with no incidents, ever, and you wont change my perception either. Kids antagonize dogs, especially little boys, nature has a way of weeding out the idiots. It's still a free country.

Posted by: pit bull owner on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:59 PM
i have owned 5 pit bulls over the years and not one single time did any of my dogs bite or go after anyone. its all in how you raise your dog and yes alot of people raise them to fight (all my dogs were stolen)but that does not mean that all pits are mean animals.my dogs would rather fall over with their tail between their legs and want you to rub their stomach then put fourth the effort to bite. Whats even funnier is that i had 2 80 lb pits in my yard and the gas man came and they wanted attention but my jack russell bit the poor mans leg...all dogs can bite lets just quit singling out one breed and making them sound so horrible.

Posted by: Sally Location: CS on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:57 PM
Is pit bull fighting a problem in Madisonville or did this come about from an attack?

Posted by: Nola Location: cs on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:55 PM
Dont blame your ignorance on the press, if it were poodles killing they'd report that too. Stop making excuses for these pit beasts.

Posted by: DLC Location: MADISONVILLE on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:52 PM
So what do you all have to say about the poor guy who's horse was killed viciously by a pit bull? Thank goodness his grandchildren were not out there. There are numerous stories of people just walking down the street minding their own business when a pit will charge after them. Not all pits that have attacked were trained to attack - they were sweet little pets but yet like I said before it is breed in them to be vicious just liking hunting dogs are breed to hunt. Even though they are trained to hunt they still have the breeding in them just like pit bulls have the breeding to be vicious. Kinda like BORN TO BE BAD. By the way my husband and I had a pit that died a few years ago, but as sweet as she was we could never take our guard down. There is always that potential for them to turn on you and please those of you with children and pit bulls don't ever let your guard down.

Posted by: worried mom Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:47 PM
I so agree with you DLC 2:13p.m. I'd be the first one to by the paper if I heard that a lab bit or killed someone.

Posted by: lb Location: madisonville on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:32 PM
to anonymous....its funny how you would like to voice your opinion but not state your name. if you want to judge our town and our people atleast have the nerve to put your name on here, other than that you can kiss our a**!!!!

Posted by: Worried mom Location: BRAZOS COUNTY on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:27 PM
OK we know any dog can bite, and we know that it all depends on the owner how he trains his dogs, So they should make a law that if your dog bites, kills or even if his to vicious and theirs to many neighbors complaining and if the athority can prove it , then the owner will need to pay a big fine and go to jail for a while, I bet then ya'll pitt bull lovers will think twice before ya'll get one of those dogs. I agree 100% with you bobby from Bryan @ 8:28a.m.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 18, 2008 at 04:04 PM
bottom line is that pitts tied to trees are a major sign of heavy drug use and illegal dog fighting going on in Madisonville. that is the fact. everyone is very well of that.

Posted by: Pitbull hater Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 03:23 PM
True story--I once had a horse.Neighbors pitbull came onto my place & attacked my horse. Shredded skin, bood, guts were everywhere. I could see completely thru my horses face & legs. My horses throat was ripped out. I beat the dog off the horse's nose where he was hanging on with a death grip.Dog then attacked my horse & me! My wife videotaped me beating dog off again. Dog, covered with blood, finally went back to his own yard. A deputy sheriff came, saw horse, tape, and dog covered in blood, and shot and killed dog. Dog owner came home, saw tape, & was furious that his "nice sweet loving dog" had been killed. Tried to sue me & the deputy. My grandkids would normally have been with the horse at that time of day or playing in the yard but had gone into town with their mother. I know that pitbull would have killed them or tried to kill them. It was just loooking for something to kill. See why I hate all pitbulls and pitbull type dogs? They are not trustworthy animals. Take no chances!

Posted by: PitBull Owner RHB Location: New York on Jul 18, 2008 at 03:22 PM
To DCL, it amazes me to hear such uninformed no misinformed person believe things so blindly. The APBT is an AMERICAN breed that has existed for well over 100 years. Yet, in over 100 years only now do we hear these SENSATIONAL stories on the radio, TV, and newspapers. The breed STANDARD states dogs MUST be human friendly. Anyone breeding true-to-standard adheres to these rules. Other dogs such as German Shepard dogs are bred to be HUMAN aggressive. In addition, this frenzy is just a continuation of uneducated logic. History has labeled "vicious" or "dangerous" other breeds before this one. German Shepard dogs, Dobermans, Rottweillers, and now APBT. I am sure once the fever fades, another breed will take its place. THIS IS A FACT: many breeds are lumped into the "pit bull" title. Some of the breeds included under "pit bull" are: Stafforshire Terriers, Boxers, Bullmastiffs, Dogo Argentino, American Bulldog, Italian Mastiff, Bandogs, Bull Terriers, etc are all called Pit bulls

Posted by: Snoopy Location: Doghouse on Jul 18, 2008 at 03:22 PM
Well, I may be a dog, but I can spell BOTH zoology and fatAl.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 18, 2008 at 02:59 PM
Who cares what goes on in Madisonville? It's a worthless town with worthless people.

Posted by: Bored Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 02:56 PM
For all of those on here that seem as if they would like to make this breed extinct: Don't judge the dog, judge the owner of the dog. How many educated, law abiding, honest people are the owners of dogs that attack people or other animals -no matter the breed? Where are the majority of these incidents occuring? Are they in affluent neighborhoods or are they in the economically challanged areas of the city and neighborhoods that adjoin them? If you ban pits, people that keep them for "protection" or "sport" will simply find another breed to turn into vicious animals. Just like people in the world, there are good dogs and bad dogs. Unless the root of the problem is addressed, the outcome will remain the same and incidents will continue to occur. To the people that assume chained dogs are vicious: My brother has a choc lab and that dog climbs the 8' wooden privacy fence if he is not kept tied up. People tie their animals up so they don't get run over by cars or get ticketed too.

Posted by: Lindi Location: cs on Jul 18, 2008 at 02:54 PM
Only stupidity I see here is pit bull owners.

Posted by: DLC Location: MADISONVILLE on Jul 18, 2008 at 02:13 PM
Okay for someone that is a zoologist you need to learn how to spell zoology first. Talk about someone with less intelligence. And it is also ridiculous to think that a pit bull's fatel attack which occurs several times a year would sell more papers than the fatel attack of a lab. I can only imagine how much attention that would draw since it is very rare and unheard of. So don't give me the ole' pity party press story. (Duh!! Stupidity abounds) Bottom line - it doesn't effect any of you since you don't live here - so you can jabber all day long beause it's not your issue it is the citizen's of Madisonville. Come take a ride through our town - you will see pits tied up to trees (what a life) and since you are all such pit lovers take em on home with ya'll and make pets out of em if you want to - I would just like to see them all GONE from our community.

Posted by: Maria Location: Caldwell on Jul 18, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Awwwwwwwwww, those pups with blood drooling down the sweet little jowls are so cuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuute.

Posted by: Tasha Location: Austin,TX on Jul 18, 2008 at 01:39 PM
Dear "Uninformed"...your name fits you perfectly. The quote you posted is from the Clifton report which is based on MEDIA coverage, not on actual statistics or proven facts. The media routinely misidentifies dogs as "pit bulls" and relies on uneducated and uniformed witnesses or other individuals to get their story out. Certainly you are aware that there are over 4 MILLION reported dog bites every year in the U.S. Makes you wonder...where is all the media coverage on those incidents that DO NOT involve pit bulls? Bottom line - the ordinance in Madisonville was illegal. It was prohibited by state law and could not be enforced. Is it too unreasonable to believe that the officials in charge of making the laws should have a general understanding of what is legal and what is not legal? Had the Madisonville officials done their homework FIRST, this would never have been an issue. As the REAL facts and statistics reveal, no dog is born dangerous. Do yourself a favor and GET INFORMED.

Posted by: Snoopy Location: Doghouse on Jul 18, 2008 at 01:18 PM
Woof.

Posted by: PitBullMom Location: CS on Jul 18, 2008 at 12:27 PM
The reason Bully Breeds are reported more than other breeds is b/c that sells papers - to people of less intelligence who believe everything that is written is truth. I have a zoo ology degree and I can tell you Bully Breed dogs do NOT "thirst" for blood-ever.That is the most ridiculous statement I have ever heard! The only one that tops that is the "locking Jaws" theory, which is also a bunch of bunk! Every dog breed has the same bone and muscle structure. They are Domestic dogs not some wild mythological beast. (Ugh! Stupidity abounds!) I thank the council for rising above the intelligence level of their public and adhering to the State Laws. Find another target for the ills of society and stop placing blame on the backs of a breed of DOG. Its a Human Issue not a Dog Issue.

Posted by: Tim on Jul 18, 2008 at 12:21 PM
Yes my first post was total sarcasm. Remove feelings and emotion from this discussion and look at the statistics across the country. People do not want to look at statistics. Pit Bull owners want to ignore them and Pit Bull haters will never get beyond their emotion to dig them up. Look at the statistics over 10 years, inform yourself to what is happening. I do not know if it is a pressing problem for most people. Pit Bulls and most other breeds generally are not a problem for most people until they find themselves or their kid or dog attacked by one. I would have to agree being bit by a lab and a pit bull are two different outcomes with regard to severity and duration of the attack. I think the issue at the public safety level surrounds this severity. For instance I expect my kid will probably be injured on playground equipment however I do not expect it to kill him. Such with dogs we expect bites but not death or serious injuries from those bites.

Posted by: Pit Bull Owner Location: Burleson County on Jul 18, 2008 at 11:55 AM
Okay I have three pit bulls that are the most loving dogs in the world. They are great with my kids and anyone else that goes in the back yard with them. Any dog can turn on anyone if they are trained to do so. Please stop pointing out just one type when any kind of dog can be aggressive if taught to be. I am glad that Madisonville reconsidered what they were doing !!!

Posted by: DLC Location: Madisonville on Jul 18, 2008 at 10:54 AM
No the real losers are the children - Just ask the ones that have been mauled by their supposedly family pit pet. Lab and goldens are breed to hunt and retrieve and as puppies they instinctively know how to do that. Pits WERE breed to fight and instinctively even as puppies they know how to do that. A vicious lab and a vicious pit are two different animals. Labs do not thirst for blood - once pits have a taste of it they thirst for it. Do some research before you start critisizing our local government for trying to improve conditions in our community.

Posted by: Lynn Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 10:54 AM
I applaud Madisonville for opening their eyes, minds, and hearts. I wonder if this reversal is in light of the recent publication of the 3 most aggressive breeds of dogs. 1-Dachshund 2-Chihuahua 3-Jack Russell Terrier???

Posted by: To Tim on Jul 18, 2008 at 10:42 AM
"Why ban a breed of dog just because it viciously attacks people some of which end in death ??" So you're saynig that they should ban Rottwielers instead of Pits?

Posted by: T Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 10:12 AM
Tim were you tring to be a smart ***? A Pit Bull is not going to attack and hurt anything unless it was trained to do so or if it is defending itself. If you know anything about the breed you would know that it is actually a very loving breed they only want to please their owners. Yes, you have stupid people in this world that train them to be mean, but do you know why it is that they pick this breed to train to be aggressive? It is because of their intelegence, athlecticism, and the fact that they are so willing to please that they pick them to train. It is the stupid owners that need to be banned not the breed of dog. Pit Bulls are not going to hurt a child. They will protect then if anything.

Posted by: PItBullMom Location: CS on Jul 18, 2008 at 10:10 AM
First off, this ban would have done nothing to stop bite instances, second, it was not a "change of heart from council" it was indeed a law that was AGAINST STATE LAW. As a responsible owner of several bully breeds I am thrilled that my babies will not be discriminated against. Let us all remember -A Dog is a Dog no matter the look. Also to all you parents- Be responsible. You want dog owners to be responsible, and we want you to be also. Do NOT allow your child to wander unattended, and NEVER leave your child alone with ANY breed of dog. That is the Crux of the problems. We all have to step up and be responsible for our charges, dog and human.

Posted by: Cant stand pit bulls Location: here on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:58 AM
Pit bulls should be OUTLAWED!

Posted by: Laura Location: California on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:51 AM
Hooray! I hope other states do the same! It's not the breed and any breed can be aggressive. Pit bulls are just getting a bad rap because they are used for fighting--which is the fault of the humans who create a vicious dog for their own selfish means.

Posted by: George Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:21 AM
In response to the other comments made in this forum, other breeds of dogs are not as vicious as pit bulls. The reports of pit bull attacks are far greater than any other breed. All it takes and should take is a couple of incidents involving the safety of people to initiate change, you see this all the time in our soceity. Take a look for instance at the newly constructed over pass at highway 47 and Villa Maria, there were a couple of life threatening accidents over the course of ten years, and change is made. Yes, some of it has to do with the way the dogs are raised, but that will not stop 100% of the attacks, and if you cannot have this certainty with a breed of any animal that has been know to be vicious, then there needs to be some sort of law to protect its people.

Posted by: Uninformed on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:20 AM
"Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Presa Canarios and their mixes are responsible for 74% of attacks that were included in the study, 68% of the attacks upon children, 82% of the attacks upon adults, 65% of the deaths, and 68% of the maimings. In more than two-thirds of the cases included in the study, the life-threatening or fatal attack was apparently the first known dangerous behavior by the animal in question."

Posted by: PitBull Owner RHB Location: New York on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:13 AM
I am very happy to hear some reasoning was made by your local lawmakers. It is extremely unfair and a sign of bigotry and stereotypical profiling most common in racism. The breed is expected to be animal aggressive aka prey drive. It is equally or more expected that they be human friendly. Please refer to the breed standard. Please fellow citizens of the USA, once land of the free, do not blind yourselves by the sensationalistic nature of the Media outlets. Please remember that when you decide to snitch on someone you SUSPECT of fighting dogs, you are very likely destroying a human family...removing fathers from homes, making sons & daughters father-less. What would be the bigger crime, theirs or yours? Place humans before animals.

Posted by: Lucy Location: CS on Jul 18, 2008 at 09:00 AM
Well..........we dont want to hear about it when another child dies. It's sad that you will protect a breed of dog and not the children. Shame on you. Other dogs do bite, but they dont kill. Why take a risk. I'm sick of you people who wont admit the truth. I have studied everything I find on those dogs, and yes, they are dangerous whether you idiots admit it or not. At least Madisonville tried.

Posted by: Matt Location: Bryan, TX. on Jul 18, 2008 at 08:40 AM
I have firsthand experience, these & rotweillers are dangerous, vicious animals which have no place in our society. Look at the picture of the dog on this story, it's tied up with a chain, why? why would someone want to have a pet that they have to chain up? I have a miniature schnauzer she is a very intelligent, loving pet and I don't have to worry she's not going to maul or kill my 3 year old girl.

Posted by: Bobbi Location: Bryan on Jul 18, 2008 at 08:28 AM
I hate those animals you can no longer walk through your neighborhood or sometimes out you front door without being confronted by one of those animals. They very often escape chains and fences. I have even seen idiots with these animals hooked up to a wagon with weights in it. Maybe the owners need to be banned.

Posted by: k Location: cs on Jul 18, 2008 at 07:27 AM
OMG!! They woke up and smelled the coffee!!! WOW!!!!

Posted by: David Location: College Station on Jul 18, 2008 at 07:18 AM
To all the "dog experts" out there voting in favor of the ordinance or leaving it in place. That dog is no more dangerous than a lab or any other breed. You can "train" any dog to be agressive. A pit bull will behave as it has been trained to behave. Maybe someone should trian the uninformed.

Posted by: pier Location: san diego ca on Jul 17, 2008 at 10:29 PM
thank you thank you i would love to move HOME texas is where my heart is but i could not do it with out my dogther!!! we love our baby and texas!!!

Posted by: jo jo Location: Madisonville on Jul 17, 2008 at 10:27 PM
They did away with the ordinance because you can not enforce an ordinance that is against state law.

Posted by: Tim on Jul 17, 2008 at 10:24 PM
I think the real winner here is the children. Pit Bulls are so good with kids I felt really sad the children of Madisonville would not be able to enjoy their playful spirit. Why ban a breed of dog just because it viciously attacks people some of which end in death ?? Good call city leaders !