The uncertain fate of a beloved pooch in Waterford Township, Michigan has brought national attention to an ongoing debate over anti-pit bull ordinances.
Meet Diggy, the one-time stray dog who recently found his forever home with Detroit musician Dan Tillery. His new owner was so enamored with his new best friend's grin that he posted a picture on social media. On account of Diggy's good looks, the photo soon went viral and was even featured on a segment of Good Morning America.
There was just one problem. Thanks to a 26-year-old ordinance, pit bull breeds are banned in Waterford Township. And that meant Diggy, who looks an awful lot like one, would have to go. Police went to Tillery's home and told him to get rid of the dog. The owner has since reluctantly agreed to do so, leaving poor Diggy's life to hang in the balance.
Over 78,000 people have now signed a petition calling for an end to the legislation. Proponents say it prevents dog attacks by reducing the prevalence of certain breeds believed to be more prone to violence, but many animal advocates say it’s a cruel law predicated on myths about certain canines.
Breed-specific legislation (BSL) has been enacted in over 700 cities nationwide. California jurisdictions with so-called dangerous dog ordinances include San Francisco; Santa Rosa; Riverside and Riverside County; Sonoma county; Yucaipa; San Bernardino county; Barstow; Fontana; Lancaster; and La Verne.
Read more about Diggy's story here.
Image Credit: Flickr User 9258photo, https://flic.kr/p/8Rmmxj via (CC BY 2.0)