Personality Test Keeps Dogs On Marine Base
A number of Marine and Army bases have banned pit bulls, Rottweilers, and other dogs they deemed dangerous.
By implementing this ban some dog owners are going to be forced to give up their dog or leave base housing. Now, the Marine Corps Recruit Depot at Parris Island has agreed to try something new, they’re allowing animal behavior experts from the ASPCA to give temperament tests. The ban started in 2008 after several dog attacks happened on the base, one killing a 3-year-old boy.
Over 100 dogs will be tested and those who pass will get a waiver to stay on base until 2012. Here are the details from the ASPCA press release.
The assessment is a seven-item research-based assessment to help identify the likelihood for aggression in individual dogs.
“Our main goal in this program is to make sure safe dogs and their families are able to stay together,” said Dr. Emily Weiss, Senior Director of Shelter Research and Development for the ASPCA.
The ASPCA is very happy about this because they are against banning a particular breed. I totally agree with this, we shouldn’t be punishing responsible dog owners based on the breed they chose.
* Fly studing for her test, although in her case I think it’s an agility exam.
If only they would consider implementing this in other locations instead of BSL across the board.
If only the federal government and state governments would implement this same testing instead of sticking a dangerous label on dog breeds instead of the BSL. It would save a lot of great dogs and keep them in their home and with their family.
This is such a good idea!! I only wish that other people would consider testing before judging.
Way to go Navy! It shows (again) that our Armed Forces are using the thinking man’s approach, compromise and improve the quality of life for their members. This decision will have a ripple effect. Happy families and dogs, happy soldiers, less problems on base. (see also Child Care, Housing, Education, Community Services).
Oops! My apologies to the Marine Corps, but I’m sure the Navy will follow suit.
I’m glad to hear they’re implementing this, but it’s sad that it will only be in effect until 2012. Also, I would love to see them do this with all breeds, especially since they mentioned the one incident of a labled “pit bull” which could mean so many different breed or breed combinations, dog killing the child was accidental.