EDITOR: I respect Sheri Morrison's passion in defending pit bulls ("Dangerous owners," Letters, Feb. 5). They are great dogs, yet their potential for destruction has proven to be far more than any other breed. This, of course, can be linked to the dangerous owners, which raises the probability of pits mauling and killing other pets and human beings.
I'm a firm believer in "you own the consequences." Are pits being persecuted for no reason? Of course, it's not the pits' fault. When an owner is negligent in how they handle them or if they encourage a pit's natural aggressiveness, the end result is not pretty. Remember what they were bred to do. Sadly, the pits get the death sentence, compliments of their owners' irresponsibility.
There are no bad animals or breeds. Certain breeds have certain traits, which man has bred into them for man's purposes. Pits are known for their loyalty and also for their over-the-top aggressiveness. Ignorance of the pit bull breed can create dire circumstances.
For eons dogs have been man's protector, companion and worker. Once we clam that ownership we also take responsibility for the consequences. Responsible owners know that our dogs don't have a choice in their welfare. As owners, we do.
SHERRIE KANTOCK
Santa Rosa
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