The Editor, Sir:

"Blame the deed, not the breed" has become the mantra for the anti-breed-specific legislation (BSL) campaign globally ever since politicians and misguided lobbyists got it into their heads that in order to curb dog attacks the solution was to ban the offending breed/s of dog.

"One's perception is their reality, and the reality for many, supported by evidence, is that the dog is a killer," is the cry of S. Peter Campbell Sr in his letter to the editor published in The Observer of July 12, 2008, in response to a letter I wrote in defence of the pit bull terrier. I wish to state that EXPERIENCE, not mere perception, informs one's reality.

Demonised

The pit bull terrier has been demonised for decades by persons who know nothing about the breed (or dogs in general) and who wish to create a boogey-man whose elimination will act as a panacea for the societal woes relating to irresponsible dog ownership.

The American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, English Staffordshire bull terrier and other similar breeds that make up the general title , 'pit bull' are not wild animals people seek to tame. They are loving, devoted family companions. These dogs were referred to as 'nanny dogs' in England because of their intense love for children, and any owner can testify to this.

It is unfortunate that some persons have sought to malign them with the public and that irresponsible owners have assisted them in this effort, but it does not take away from their undeniable value.

I am, etc.,

DORIAN GREY

dorian@jamdownpits.cjb.net