14 April 2023, Johannesburg, South Africa: The Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA) and the Centre of Applied Pet Ethology (COAPE) International have joined hands with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to create a joint task team to identify short, medium and long term practical approaches to promote safety of all people living with a pit bull and pit bull type dogs, to reduce and prevent injuries and loss of life on all fronts.
The aim of the project is to promote the safety of all people living with a pit bull, and pit bull type dogs, to reduce and prevent the loss of life on all fronts. “We at the PBFSA value human life, and as such are deeply saddened and concerned about the widespread human attacks. Both humans and the pit bulls have been placed in danger by the owners who lack the skills and knowledge required to handle power-breeds.” says Jeanette Erasmus, President of PBFSA.
Some of the goals will involve reaching all owners of pit bulls and pit bull types to provide basic education and safety measures that are easy and affordable to implement, to ensure the immediate safety of people living around these dogs. Creating accountability regarding the safe keeping of domesticated animals, and supporting the public where needed. The focus here is to assist dog owners in being responsible guardians of their animals. This will include the creation of public awareness on available and supporting legislation.
“We encourage owners to be responsible for their dogs and to take ownership of the breed by sterilizing their Pit bulls to help control the breeding rate, don’t turn your pit bulls into fighting dogs, and don’t keep them on a chain or in a cage.” adds Jeanette. A comprehensive DNA study is underway to assist the government with the correct identification of problem animals unique to South African conditions, to promote safety of all people living with a pit bull and pit bull type dogs, to reduce and prevent injuries and loss of life on all fronts.
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