I am posting this for one of Howie's co-workers whose friend needs to find her American bulldog a home. Before anyone jumps to conclusions, this family absolutely doesn't want to, but is being forced to. She wrote this Thursday 4/13/2006:
Quoting:
Our American Bulldog, Sampson, who is AS GENTLE AS ANY dog I've ever met will have to be put down if we can't find him a home in the next week. Per the County Animal Control he is one of several breeds that are considered vicious in the state of Ohio. It does not matter that he isn't a pit, he is still considered vicious and in LC, all they have to do is say that he's a certain breed (regardless of disposition) and he is removed from the home and put down if owners do not have insurance.
I did hear that a few areas (Cincinnati) have removed the "breed" laws in favor of dog specific behavior, but our town is not that advanced (or smart, or compassionate).
In order to keep Sampson, we would have to:
1. Not allow him outside unless he is chained or in a box with a lid (animal control told us the box with lid, I found chained on a site when I was researching)
2. Carry $100,000 worth of additional home owners insurance
3. Not allow him to take walks with us, go to the park, etc. (can't leave the house)
If he gets loose, we are charged up to $1,000 and 6 months jail time.
If he bites someone (well, that would never happen since he is more docile than a bunny rabbit)......
As we had our house fire, we were dropped by our insurance company. The ONLY insurance that we are able to get for our home is through the Ohio Fair Plan. (Last resort insurance pretty much). According to them, we aren't even allowed to have him at all. They will drop us all together.
So, we are in a horrible dillemma. When we took him in, we were unaware of what the breed meant in Ohio.
He is neutered, current on all shots, has basic commands (sit, shake, gentle, down, come, etc) and is INCREDIBLE with children. (Macey bites HIM!)
I have spent WEEKS now finding rescues and calling people. Nobody is able to take him. However, I am hoping that one of you might have better resources than me and know of a shelter or rescue that WOULD accept him and NOT put him down.
I have REALLY been struggling with this as he is such a lover and very healthy. To end his life because I can't find an alternate home is cruel and something I won't be able to forgive myself for, but I have no choice.
Aubrey accidentally let him out today when she didn't get the side door shut tight and teh wind opened it up. The Dr's office across the way called to tell me my dog was loose. If I hadn't found him, or the Dr had called Animal Control instead, he would be without opportunity for help right now.
As our neighbor (the woman that hates Rob) knows the situation, we are with very limited time before she calls Animal Control to alert them to Sampson in our back yard throughout the day.
So......if you are able to provide any additional insight, it is appreciated.
Thanks,
L
I will send her e-mail in response to serious inquiries sent via DG. That way, you can talk directly with her.
This message was edited Apr 14, 2006 4:56 PM