Reader Responses

Articles such as the one titled “They Chewed Her Up,” about a recent attack by pit bulls, really burn me up because of irresponsible pit bull owners, and the lazy state and local politicians who will not push to change the laws concerning these dangerous breeds of animals.

Texas is a “non-specified breed state,” which means local jurisdictions cannot outlaw certain dangerous breeds of animals, such as pit bull dogs, without the state changing the law. But how many more injuries and deaths have to occur before something is done?

This issue should have been addressed by state politicians long ago. There is more than enough historical evidence to demonstrate the dangers of this breed. Attacks are occurring all over this state involving this dog breed and it should be outlawed.

Law enforcement and other emergency services deal with problems caused by these animals all the time. Too many of the owners are irresponsible thugs who think it is macho to own a vicious dog, and they hide behind the loopholes in the laws until something bad happens — then it is too late for the victim.

Of course there are those owners who will say “I have a pit bull that is kind and gentle.” I’m sure there are a few like that. But the breed has been ruined by people breeding and training too many for fighting. Then there are those who will say, “Just sue the owners.” But no amount of money will make up for the injuries or death caused by these animals.

My heart goes out to Kristi Langston for the suffering she must now endure because of this attack. Politicians, get off your tails and do something meaningful about this.

A.D. Ethridge
Palestine

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