Five years ago Ontario banned pit bull dogs in the province citing “public safety.”* On Wednesday, the Toronto Humane Society released a study indicating that the ban has not been as effective as the government had anticipated.

In addition to a ban on pit bulls, the law also targets any dog that bites, attacks, or is a menace to public safety. Owners face fines of up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment for up to six months.

While it’s easy to blame the dogs, perhaps it’s time to put the blame on irresponsible owners.

Graphic courtesy of the Toronto Humane Society

*Dog Owners’ Liability Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. D-16

In loving memory of Tara Wang, died from pancreatic cancer on February 2, 2004.