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September
27, 2006
U.S.
Representatives Urged to Sign on to Rep. McCotter’s Effort
WASHINGTON (September 26, 2006) – The Humane Society of the
United States today applauded the introduction by U.S. Rep. Thaddeus
G. McCotter (R-11th/ Mich.) of a resolution encouraging municipalities
to adopt and enforce protections against dog bites. H. Res. 1013
addresses the serious issue of dangerous dogs and what can be done
to prevent them from biting. The Centers for Disease Control concluded
that 800,000 dog bites per year are serious enough to require
medical attention.
“Millions of Americans share their homes with dogs and share
a special bond with these animals, and the vast majority of interactions
between people and dogs are happy and safe,” said Michael Markarian,
executive vice president of The HSUS. “But there are two types
of dogs with an increased likelihood to bite—chained
dogs and male dogs who have not been neutered.”
The CDC has determined that over 70 percent of dogs involved in
attacks are unneutered males. “The HSUS encourages all dog
owners to have their pets sterilized,” said Markarian. “This
important and routine procedure will reduce a dog’s desire
to roam, fight with other dogs, or behave aggressively towards people.”
In addition, the CDC, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the
American Veterinary Medical Association have all determined that
chaining or tethering creates dogs who are at a significantly greater
risk to bite. “The practice of chaining dogs for long periods
of time is inhumane and poses a risk to the dogs involved, other
animals, and the entire community,” said Markarian.
“Chaining and sterilization should be a priority for all communities
addressing dog bite and dangerous dog issues,” Markarian continued.
“We are extremely grateful to Representative McCotter for introducing
this important resolution to protect dogs and public safety, and
we urge all members of Congress to support his humane and sensible
effort.”
A copy of H. Res. 1013 is available on request. For information
on preventing and avoiding dog bites, visit www.NoDogBites.org.
CONTACT:
Tracey McIntire, 301-548-7793, tmcintire@hsus.org
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest
animal protection organization with more than 9.8 million members
and constituents
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