Visit www.stopbsl.com to find out more about BSL.

Breed-specific legislation (BSL) bans or restricts certain types of dogs based on their appearance because they are perceived as “dangerous” breeds or types of dogs.

“Pit bulls,” “pit bull mixes,” and any type of dog that looks somewhat “pit bull-like” are usually included in breed-specific legislation. For this reason, owners of “pit bulls” need to be aware of BSL, where it is in place or where discussions are taking place about it, and how it affects them and their community.

A breed ban usually requires that all dogs of a certain appearance (“targeted breed”) be removed from the area wherein the BSL has been implemented.

Breed-specific restrictions may require an owner of a targeted breed do any of the following or more, depending on how the law is written:

• Muzzle the dog in public
• Spay or neuter the dog
• Contain the dog in a kennel with specific requirements (6′ chain link walls, lid, concrete floors, etc.)
• Keep the dog on a leash of specific length or material
• Purchase liability insurance of a certain amount
• Place “vicious dog” signs on the outside of the residence where the dog lives
• Make the dog wear a “vicious dog” tag or other identifying marker

Breed-specific legislation applies only to dogs of a certain appearance, not to any and all dogs. It does not take into account how the owner has raised, trained, or managed the dog. It does not take into account the dog’s actual behavior.

To find out more about BSL, please visit Happy Pit Bull’s sister site, www.stopbsl.com.