Please pencil this in on your calendars-
We have information that the tethering ban will be on the City Council
agenda this Tuesday at 10:00 AM.

However, the agenda is not published until tomorrow. Sometimes these
things can get moved around, so I will check tomorrow and send out
another message. Or, you can check here tomorrow-
http://www.fortworthgov.org/citycalendar/webevent.pl?
cmd=opencal&cal=cal25

or call the city secretaries office 817-392-6143
the meeting is held in the Council Chamber, 1000 Throckmorton Street,
Fort Worth, 76102

I am sending a packet of EBA and ADBA info to the Mayor that should
arrive tomorrow.

Please, we need Fort Worth residents to attend. If time is limited,
only residents will be allowed to speak.

If anyone can go, please let me know.
Thanks,
-Laura
mail@...

Heads up on this tethering proposal for the city of Fort Worth.
Irving has already passed a ban on tethering. However you feel about
chaining dogs, whether you feel it is useful or not, these laws are
BSL by proxy. They are ways for cities to get to Pit Bull owners
while remaining within state laws which prohibit BSL outright.

We are just finding out about this, and at this point I am trying to
get the word out and will be contacting the EBA and ADBA tonight.

When they have the meeting, we are going to need to go. Unfortunately
I don't think any of our officers live in the Fort Worth city limits.
*** I would like to hear from people who do and would be willing to
speak to their city council person and get more information, and help
keep us informed. ***

Talking points:
-Some dogs are happier and safer when tethered correctly than they
are when crated, kenneled or left to run loose in a fenced yard.
Every dog is an individual. We should not be taking away methods of
containment that are safe, humane and necessary for some individual
dogs.
-The law requires people to provide adequate food, water and shelter.
Let's focus resources on those who are breaking these laws rather
than on people whose dogs are well cared for, but happen to be
tethered.
-Low income people, who cannot afford to build new fences and
kennels, will be unfairly targeted by this law.
-How many dogs will be turned loose, or left in yards with inadequate
fencing and allowed to escape? If these dogs are turned in to Animal
Control, there are not enough places in rescue groups or new homes to
aborb them. Almost all of them will be destroyed.
-Owners need to be educated regarding safe and humane tethering
practices, and Lone Star State Pit Bull Club will be happy to assist
with this.

Thanks,
-Laura
mail@...

Source:  http://www.star-telegram.com/metro_news/story/411464.html

Posted on Tue, Jan. 15, 2008
Council to vote on dog ordinance
By MIKE LEE
mikelee@...
Photo courtesy Fort Worth Public Health Department

     * Council to vote on dog ordinance

FORT WORTH — The pictures were upsetting: A slit-eyed dog chained to
a tree in a bare dirt yard with no way to get to food or water.
Another dog kept on a chain so short the dog could barely move.

And those were just the ones that the city animal control department
felt it could show in public.

"Our animal cruelty officers encounter many examples of dog tethering
that are far worse," said Scott Hanlan, assistant public health
director.

It could soon be illegal to chain or tether a dog in Fort Worth,
except in very limited circumstances. City Council members, who were
visibly angered by the pictures, could vote on a change in the
ordinance next week, including a $2,000 fine.

Hanlon said there's evidence that chaining dogs makes them more
dangerous. One study by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention shows that animals that are kept roped or chained are 2.8
times more likely to bite people than other dogs.

"I find the photographs you just showed us disturbing to say the
least," Mayor Mike Moncrief said. "I guess perhaps in my own mind the
most appropriate punishment for those who choose to treat animals
like that is to tether those owners themselves for a period of time."

Happy Holidays everyone!

Everyone Welcome to attend the Christmas Party! Bring a dog-related
under $10 gift for gift swap if you choose to participate.

LOCATION:
Spring Creek BBQ in Mansfield -- 1724 Highway 287 North (at Debbie Lane)
restaurant phone number: (817) 453-7454. Click here for a map and
location information. http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html

Questions? Please contact
Chyrell 817-637-4147
James  817-323-7449

The Show and Our Club

Hey guys, here it is about time to shine as ambassadors for the club
one more time. We need workers or just people to help make it work,
and work right. Before the show I would encourage you to get a handful
of flyers and post them where dog people might be inclinded to see
them, Also, tell your dog buddies to get out and see what's cookin' at
our show. They will have fun and their pooch might even like it. Be
like my buddy, Pat Brisco, and stop people on the street that have a
Pit Bull in tow and invite them to the show.

I was in Nashville last weekend, and the volunteers had invited the
local TV news station out to do a positive piece on the breed and the
people who owned them. It was a huge success and I heard that they did
a good job on what aired.

Also, be on your best behavior because I guarantee that we will have
some spectators that are looking for all the wrong things. Our man
over security, James Bush, will be on his game but he can't be
everywhere all the time, so do your part to help keep people in line
or tell someone who can address a potential problem. Be tactful when
you scold someone, but we must take care of business. In most cases
the folks just don't know, or it is an oversight and they are glad to
comply once it is brought to their attention. For the trouble makers,
they can be assured that they will be escorted off the grounds.

We are going to have a ton of fun, folks, in spite of having to do a
little work.   We have some bang-up judges coming for both days, which
brings up another point. The Sunday show which is being put on by the
Heart of Texas can use our help, so plan to be there and support them
as well as pitching in, if at all possible.  Also, on both days, pick
up every piece of litter you see and trash can it. This makes it so
much easier when it is all said and done to do a final clean-up.  We
got high marks from the people who let us use their facility last year
and we want to do the same this year. Plan to be there, folks, it's
going to be a good one!

Don't forget to scare up some stuff for the raffle. It all helps and
we do indeed need it and you too.

I want to thank you in advance for all your efforts on behalf of our
breed.

Be thankful for Thanksgiving and God bless you all.
  --- .    GARY J. HAMMONDS

Hi! I am putting together the newsletter as we speak. However, in
order to give people as much time as possible before the sanctioned
show NEXT WEEKEND, I wanted to share Gary and Chyrell's columns NOW.
Come to the shows! Bring some raffle prizes! Bring some friends! Most
importantly, please lend us a hand during the show! Thanks!! -Laura

FROM OUR PRESIDENT, CHYRELL BELL:

Dear LSSPBC Club Members:

Again we are preparing for another big show.  We need all the help we
can get so plan to sign up for any job that is available.   Also,
don't forget to bring raffle items. A big raffle is always something
that the people enjoy. This year the club has some extra money so we
may buy some special items for the raffle. I have been getting calls
from all over the country and I am expecting a really big show. Please
tell all your friends that are dog people to mark their calendars.
Anyone who just wants to come to the show and enjoy the competition
will be welcomed. However, no dogs will be allowed on the grounds that
are not entered into one of the sanctioned classes and only ADBA
registered dogs will be allowed to enter any fun classes. Our judges
will be Nathan Pilgrim for the first show and Abel Santillan for the
second show. Heart of Texas's judges will be Roger Scott and Bobby
Riggs for Sunday.

There is plenty of covered areas just in case of inclement weather.
But, there will be no camping inside and around the inside arena. Some
guest misinterpreted what I said about camping under the covered
areas. All non-food vendors are welcomed and the concessions will be
open both days. Please to go to our website, www.lsspbc.com and print
a flyer and hand out at least to one person and one place. There is a
new club for Bully Breeds in the area and all members of this club are
encouraged to come to our show.  We need to meet you and join forces
in helping preserving the breed.

Some of our members are interested in having more dog and family
related events. I thing this is a great idea. We will discuss this and
plan more event outings next year along with our "Pit Bull Whisperer
Seminar" and Fun Show.

Two tragic deaths of young boys here in Texas have saddened my heart.
I believe both the deaths of the boys were by young male bully bred
dogs. People please know that no child should be left alone with a
large dog. Most importantly, know what can trigger any dog to get
excited and attack and make yourself aware of the body language of a
dog. If you have an unregistered dog have it neutered. Don't breed
your pet unnecessarily. Only buy from reputable people, who know what
kind of breeding is in their dog's lineage. If you have questions
about your dog's behavior; call any of our club members and we will help.

  To my close friends in the club; I am so proud of each of you and
your efforts to stand foremost in the public eye as responsible APBT
owners. The battle lines are going to be drawn within the next years
in our state. We need to pool together and fight for what is right
about BSL. Also don't forget to make your vote for Laura Dapkus as our
EBA reprehensive. That vote needs to be in to the EBA before November
30th.

   Please do not hesitate to call with any questions about the club. My
cell phone is 817-637-414.

In Loving Service of the APBT

Chyrell Bell

If you are a paid member of Lone Star State Pit Bull Club, you are
also a member of the EBA. The EBA raises funds to fight Breed
Specific Legislation. This includes hiring lobbyists and helping to
pay for legal assistance for people suing cities with BSL. They even
have a special Texas fund right now.

So, I am just sending this message because Chyrell told me to! I feel
bad asking people to vote for me, because the other nominees are
truly outstanding people. We are in good hands no matter what.

If you haven't gotten your EBA newsletter, here is the info about
voting: If you want me on the board, vote for Laura Dapkus. (you can
vote for a total of 3 people).

Remember to give your own name (as the EBA has it) when you vote
or they will have no way of knowing if you are an EBA member or not.

Nominations are in and members of Endangered Breeds Association
will have the entire month of November to vote for their choices.
Each member is entitled to one vote. Family memberships are entitled
to two votes. Board members whose terms expire are Joel Halverson,
Harry George and Colleen Hill. Nominees include: Laura Dapkus
of Texas; Linda Emmert of Missouri; Russ Krohn of Missouri; Harry
George of Ohio; Brad Bullock of Utah; Brad Wickham of Utah; Hank
Greenwood of Utah; Sam Vilanti of Colorado; and Colleen Hill of
Louisiana.

Those voting may cast their ballots for three individuals.
Ballots (write the names of those you wish to vote for on a piece of
paper) should be mailed to EBA President, Jean Carpenter, P.O. Box
1148, Albany, LA 70711; OR the names of your three choices can be
emailed to Carpenter at ebajeanc@...

Meeting is Sunday, November 18, 2007 at 3:00 PM -- everyone welcome!
All hands on deck to get ready for the Big Show! Even if you have never
been to a dog show before, we need your help. It's fun and easy, and a
good way to meet new people.

If anyone is able to get raffle prize donations and bring them to the
meeting, that would be super helpful.

LOCATION:
Spring Creek BBQ in Mansfield -- 1724 Highway 287 North (at Debbie Lane)
restaurant phone number: (817) 453-7454.

See http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html
for the map.

Anyone who is on any APBT lists or discussion forums, and would be
able to share the following, I would appreciate it very much! Thank
you!

BIG SANCTIONED SHOW -- Thanksgiving Weekend at the Johnson County
Sheriff's Posse Arena in Cleburne, TX. There will be conformation
shows on Saturday and Sunday but no weight pull. Please join us for a
fun and exciting weekend in this great indoor venue! It's November 24-
25.
Lone Star State club is holding the Saturday shows and the Heart of
Texas club is holding the Sunday shows.
We will be having Junior Handler (two age groups and two trophies),
Judges' Choice, Best Handler, People's Choice. This will be judged by
applause, so feel free to bring your bling, hats, costumes...
anything to give you an unfair advantage with the audience! .

Please download the flyer and map here - or you can see our full page
ad in the Gazette

http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html

Did I mention it's INDOORS? We held it here last year and it was
great. So much more comfortable.

Also non-food related vendors are welcome!  We need raffle prize
donations. They can be sent to  P.O. Box 278 Bedford, TX 76095-0278
or a club member can pick them up.

I have also included the info below for newcomers:

Don't worry about never having shown before. People are very friendly
and happy to help newcomers. There are no professional handlers at
ADBA shows!

Obedience training will help you handle your dog better, but if your
dog has never been shown, now is a good time to start. It's great
socialization for him and a bonding activity for the both of you. I
have seen many, many dogs who have never been shown before take home
ribbons and even trophies.

Bring to the show:
1. Your ADBA papers or show card with the birthdate, reg. number and
dog's name.
2. A secure buckle-type collar, 4 foot or shorter leash, and a crate.
3. Your dog should wear his rabies tag and ID tag. Carry the
vaccination records just in case of an emergency.
4. Food and water from home and dishes.
5. Cash - sanctioned entries are $18 each. Fun classes are of course
a nominal fee to help cover expenses.
6. Camping chairs - also dress in layers and prepare for extreme
weather. Bring snacks because it can be a long day (most clubs do
have food vendors though).

Please don't bring:
1. Puppies under 4 months old, or any dog who is not fully vaccinated.
2. Any dogs not entered in the days' events.
3. Anything that you wouldn't want your grandma to see you wear. Dog
fighting shirts are not allowed per ADBA rules. We usually have the
media and members of the general public at our shows.

Here are the classes in order. These are just the official classes
(for points). Clubs usually have "fun" classes such as Junior Handler
(for kids), Judges' Choice (whatever the judge would personally like
to have at his house, regardless of the ADBA standard), Best Red
Nose, etc. The clubs have these classes, and a raffle, at various
times.

OFFICIAL ADBA CONFORMATION POINT CLASSES:
Males 4-6 Mo.
Females 4-6 Mo.
Males 6-9 Mo.
Females 6-9 Mo.
Males 9-12 Mo.
Females 9-12 Mo.
Best Puppy - all 1st place winners of puppy classes compete
Champions Class (will be held only if ADBA minimum # of entrants is
met - this is for dogs who are Champions already).
Males 12-18 Mo.
Females 12-18 Mo.
Males 18-24 Mo.
Females 18-24 Mo.
Males 2-3 Years
Females 2-3 Years
Males 3-5 Years
Females 3-5 Years
Males 5 Years and older
Females 5 Years and older
Best of Show - All first place winners of adult classes and the Best
Puppy compete. From this group the judge chooses:
Best of Opposite Sex - best dog to the opposite sex of best of show

Here is the ADBA Conformation Standard. The dog who best fits the
standard is Best of Show:
http://www.adbadog.com/p_pdetails.asp?fpid=32&pg=32

That's all I can think of right now. If anyone has any questions,
please feel free to ask!
-Laura
Show Secretary
Lone Star State Pit Bull Club

REMINDER: Fun Show SUNDAY Oct. 7: Dalworthington Gardens Park Pavilion
(near Arlington). This is a new location - the flyer has a map. A fun
show is for practice and fun only, and is open to all APBTs, Am
Staffs, etc.
Prizes for Best Male, Best Female, Best Red Nose, Best Blue, Junior
Handler, and Ugly Dog. Bring your family and enjoy the fun!

***Please bring chairs***
Also, FYI, there is no electricity, water or restrooms. The club will
supply water for you & your dogs! It's always a good idea with dogs,
however to travel with water and bowls from home so that no one gets
an upset tummy.

See you there!
-Laura

There will be a club meeting this Sunday, Sept. 16 at the usual
location, Spring Creek BBQ in Mansfield.

In October, we will not have the regular meeting, instead we will
have a -- FUN SHOW Sunday, Oct. 7 2007 at 3PM at Dalworthington
Gardens Park Pavilion (near Arlington).

For directions AND all the show flyers please see
http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html

Please share the show flyers with your vet, feed store, etc.

By the way... are you registered to vote? Please register to vote now
and start voting in local elections so that your voice will be heard.
Get your voter registration forms or change your address here.....
http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/

Why? Because when breed-specific legislation comes up (and it will -
in January 2009), you will need to write and call your local elected
officials. If you are not registered to vote and don't have a history
of voting, they are much less likely to listen to you. We need to
show that APBT owners' opinions count! The time to start is now. A
year from now will be too late. Your dogs will thank you!

Chyrell has asked me to send a message to help clarify the new anti-
tethering law. Per the Fort Worth Star-Telegram:

"A new dog law takes effect Sept. 1. It prohibits pet owners from
using pinch or choke collars or tying up their dogs outside:

Between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Within 500 feet of a school.

When the temperature falls below freezing or whenever ozone or heat
advisories are issued by local or state authorities."

First and foremost, if your dogs are tethered now, please do not let
them loose in a situation where they will be unsafe, either with each
other or where they will climb out, dig under, or chew through a
fence. We believe that this law will be difficult to enforce. Even -
if- it is enforced, there will be a warning before a citation. A dog
getting loose and scaring or hurting another animal or person is MUCH
worse than a warning or even a citation, and will possibly result in
our breed being banned completely. So, please keep those dogs in
regardless of this law. It can only take -one- incident to get these
dogs banned. It has happened in other states, and it can happen here.

Just as important, it is and always has been illegal to confine a dog
with out proper food, water and shelter - shade AND a dog house - .
These dogs should be wearing secure, buckle-type collars - not chains
of any form as a collar.  They need socialization, play, attention
and exercise in order to be happy and healthy. Please educate your
neighbors about this.

This law gives the authorities an excuse to come on your property, so
be above reproach in your kennel-keeping, cleanliness and health. Be
a good neighbor and don't give your neighbors a reason to complain.
Again, I am preaching to the choir here - so please spread the word
to everyone you see on the street with a Pit Bull (or Rottie or
Mastiff for that matter).

If you want to switch from chains to kennels, Tractor Supply Company
has a great, pit bull-safe product called a Magnum Kennel. You might
also check the Greensheet, Pennysaver, local paper or Craigslist for
used kennels.

Now, here are the details about the law:
First from RPOA:
==============================================================
From Zandra Anderson
www.TexasDogLawyer.com

I know what was intended by this law, but all the discussion misses
one, very key point. This law ONLY applies to dogs that are
left "outside and unattended by use of a restraint that unreasonably
limits the dog's movement..."

Therefore, this law does not do squat UNLESS the dog is on too short
of a chain or tether. That is what so many gloss over. This law does
NOT outlaw pinch collars, having a dog out late, or even in inclement
weather if the dog is on a chain that is long enough.

I doubt this was the intention, but that is the effect. Period. It is
so convoluted that I doubt anyone can even read the thing much less
enforce it.
Zandra
www.TexasDogLawyer.com

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)
==================================================================

Here is an article summing up the law:
http://www.star-telegram.com/legislature/story/208805.html

Let's all work in our neighborhoods to save our breed for the next
generation,
-Laura
Show Secretary/Newsletter Ed.

Hi!
There are many exciting things going on with the club. Please also see
the events page of the website for more details:

http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html

#1: Meeting this weekend, Sunday August 19 at 3PM -- at Spring Creek
BBQ in Mansfield. Detailed planning is underway for both the fun show
and the sanctioned show and we need your input.

#2: Fun Show Oct. 7: Dalworthington Gardens Park Pavilion (near
Arlington). This is a new location - the flyer has a map. A fun show is
for practice and fun only, and is open to all APBTs, Am Staffs, etc.
Prizes for Best Male, Best Female, Best Red Nose, Best Blue, Junior
Handler, and Ugly Dog.  Bring your family and enjoy the fun!

#3: The flyer for the fun show is available in the FILES section of the
Yahoo Group, or download from the website (above). In the same
locations, you will also find the flyer for the huge sanctioned show
Thanksgiving weekend. We also took out a full page ad in the ADBA
Gazette.

Please print out and post the flyers at your local feed store, vet's
office, animal shelter... anywhere APBT owners may congregate.

Thanks for being part of our group!

Also, I apologize for the tardiness of the newsletter but we have been
moving our house and my shop since April. Things are starting to get
back to relative normalcy and I plan to start putting one together
soon. If anyone wants to contribute anything, or have a paid ad, please
let me know ASAP.

-Laura
Show Secretary / Newsletter

We will be having a MAY meeting on Sunday, May 20 at 3:00 PM.
Spring Creek BBQ in Mansfield -- 1724 Highway 287

PLEASE NOTE- there will be NO meeting or event on the third Sunday in
JUNE because it will be Fathers' Day.

-----------------------------------------------------

Mark your calendar for the weekend after Thanksgiving once again for
the big Sanctioned Show, same place in Cleburne. There will be an ad
in the Gazette and more info on the website soon!

-----------------------------------------------------
Our President, Chyrell, was quoted in an April 27 Star-Telegram article:
http://www.star-telegram.com/235/story/82911.html

-----------------------------------------------------
Update on what the City of DeSoto plans to do about their dog problem.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/041307dnmetde\
sotodogs.2f0b7e0.html

It is not breed-specific.

See more info on their website - http://www.texomaclub.com/

If you want to have a good time and give your dog a safe way to get
socialization and practice showing, please come! Rescued dogs, spayed
and neutered dogs, non-pedigreed dogs -- all are welcome!

The Texoma American Pit Bull Terrier Club would like to invite you to
our May "Fun Show".  The Show will be held on Saturday May 19th, 2007
at Moffitt Park, located on Hwy 51 ( California Street) in
Gainesville, Texas.  All American Pit Bull Terriers are welcome with
or without papers, but a dog crate or pet taxi is required.  Our
events for the day will include a conformation show and a weight pull.
  Registration will start at 7:00 am and the events will start at 11:00
am. Both events will be judged by special guest judges.  The weight
pull will be held on our notorious Texoma Track. Eash event will be
$10.00 per dog and there will be ribbons and trophies given to all of
our winners.  Come and join us, make new friends and learn new things
about our magnificent breed of dogs. We hope to see you there!

Take I-35 South from Oklahoma, or north from Dallas and once you get
to Gainesville, Tx. take the California street exit and go west. Mofit
Park is on the right side of the road. directly across from the
Leonard Park and Zoo.  Only a few hundred feet west of I-35.

For More Information call Miguel Luna (940) 665-7891 or Shelton
Medlock (940) 902-9736.

Sorry for the multiple messages, but this news just came in. If we
defeat the Senate version we can still stop this law from passing.

If you happen to know your State Senators' name, his or her contact
info is listed below. If not, there is a link below to find it.

Please take a minute to make your voice heard, even if you already
wrote or faxed, call the office and record your name as being AGAINST
SB411. It takes 30 seconds.
------------------------
TX-RPOA E-News
From Responsible Pet Owners Alliance,

April 25, 2007
Unfortunately HB 1355 passed in the House yesterday.  SB 411 is on the
Senate Floor today and is the companion bill to HB 1355.
THESE BILLS MAKE EVERY DOG OWNER IN TEXAS A POTENTIAL FELON.  We need
phone calls and faxes especially to your OWN senators, and if you have
time, fax to any or all the senators listed below.  This will have a
detrimental effect on dog shows or other events in Texas.  The Senate
debate may go on for several days so contact them each day until
further notice.

Separating two dogs that get into a scuffle can result in a serious
bite to a person as all knowledgeable dog persons know.  This could
happen while walking your dog on leash off your property if an
unrestrained dog attacks your dog.  It has happened many times.

A message from Zandra Anderson and contact information for all the
senators is below.  Ask your senator to read the brief that Zandra
mailed to all the senators.  Ask that a first offense be a
misdemeanor, NOT a felony for a dog that has shown no previous
dangerous tendencies.
____________________________________

>From Zandra:
Please don't give up. HB 1355 was passed in the House on Tuesday. This
is not a surprise because the bill's author is a well liked
representative. We have a MUCH better chance to make a difference in
the Senate.

The companion bill, SB 411 is on the calendar to be heard today
Wednesday, 4/25/07!!!!  We still can make a difference! FAX and CALL!
This is so important to your rights as a dog owner.

Remember--calling is easy! Say that you are OPPOSED to SB 411.  They
keep a tally usually. Simple and easy!
Here is the link to find your Texas Senator:
http://www.senate.state.tx.us/75r/Senate/Members.htm#FYI

You can use the same letter you wrote for HB 1355 if you just change
it to SB 411. Here is a sample letter:

April 25, 2007

Senator ____________________
P.O. Box 12068
Capitol Station
Austin, Texas 78711

BY FAX:  (512) ___________________

RE: Opposition to SB 411
Dear Senator _______________:

I am very supportive of responsible dog ownership, but  SB411 as
written is too severe, has some other problems, and does not prevent
dog attacks from occurring.

I am opposed to SB 411 for the following reasons:

1.         The civil definition of "serious bodily injury" (severe
bite wounds requiring medical attention and hospitalization) is too
broad and may create a significant increase in felons further
burdening our justice system. It was not intended for use with
felonies.  The Penal Code definition should be used (injury that
causes death or creates a substantial
risk of death).

2.         Making the failure to secure your dog a felony if it gets
out and causes serious bodily injury or death even if it is the first
time is too severe. This bill has been likened to the loaded gun
statute. In that statute, if a child gets hold of a loaded gun and
kills or seriously injures himself or another person, then the person
who left the gun accessible to the child can be charged with a Class A
Misdemeanor, not a felony of the second or third degree.

3.         People who fail to secure their dogs may be felons (second
and third degree) and join the ranks of some murderers, rapists,
arsonists, kidnappers and robbers which shows that the offenses
suggested by this bill  are too harsh.

4.         Newly proposed Sec. 822.007 (Local Regulation of Dogs) is
redundant of existing state law, Sec. 822.047 with one major
exception. The language protecting against breed specific legislation
is removed. This legislative intent according to the author of SB 411
is that it is not breed specific. This creates a conflict with current
law and may create a loophole for breed specific legislation. I am
opposed to any law that is breed specific.

5.         This bill can make a felon out of someone for failing to
secure
his dog on his property, but in Texas there is no state law prohibiting
dogs
from running loose which creates a conflict. There was no law against
loose
dogs in Milam County where Mrs. Stiles was killed, so this new bill
would
not prevent further cases like hers. The owner of the dogs in that case
was
tried and acquitted. How could someone be criminally negligent for not
securing his dogs on his property if state law does not prohibit dogs
from
running loose?

6.         SB 411 may put the owner of a dog in prison for not securing
the
dog. In the case of the family pet, who is the owner? An entire family
could
go to prison which makes no sense.

7.          A statewide prohibition on loose dogs and enforcement of at
large laws would help prevent other attacks. Proper funding of Animal
Control is essential to prevention. Also, educating people on proper
dog
ownership and the problems with loose dogs is key.
_______________________________________

Senators Contact info:
All addressed
PO Box 12068
Capitol Station
Austin, TX  78711

Kevin Eltife
Phone:  (512) 463-0101
Fax:  (512) 475-3751
Kevin.eltife@...

Bob Deuell
Phone:  (512) 463-0102
Fax:  (512) 463-7202
Bob.deuell@...

Robert Nichols
Phone:  (512) 463-0103
Fax:  (512) 463-1526
Robert.nichols@...

Tommy Williams
Phone:  (512) 463-0104
Fax:  (512) 463-6373
Tommy.williams@...

Steve Ogden
Phone:  (512) 463-0105
Fax:  (512) 463-5713
Steve.ogden@...

Mario Gallegos
Phone:  (512) 463-0106
Fax:  (512) 463-0346
Mario.gallegos@...

Dan Patrick
Phone:  (512) 463-0107
Fax:  (512) 463-8810
Dan.Patrick@...

Florence Shapiro
Phone:  (512) 463-0108
Fax:  (512) 463-7579
Florence.Shapiro@...

Chris Harris
Phone:  (512) 463-0109
Fax:  (512) 463-7003
Chris.harris@...

Kim Brimer
Phone:  (512) 463-0110
Fax:  (512) 475-3745
Kim.brimer@...

Mike Jackson
Phone:  (512) 463-0111
Fax:  (512) 475-3727
Mike.jackson@...

Jane Nelson
Phone:  (512) 463-0112
Fax:  (512) 463-0923
Jane.nelson@...

Rodney Ellis
Phone:  (512) 463-0113
Fax:  (512) 463-0006
Rodney.Ellis@...

Kirk Watson
Phone:  (512) 463-0114
Fax:  (512) 463-5949
Kirk.watson@...

John Whitmire
Phone:  (512) 463-0115
Fax:  (512) 475-3737
John.whitmire@...

John J. Carona
Phone:  (512) 463-0116
Fax:  (512) 463-3135
John.carona@...

Kyle Janek
Phone:  (512) 463-0117
(800) 445-2635
Fax:  (512) 463-0639
Kyle.janek@...

Glenn Hegar
Phone:  (512) 463-0118
Fax:  (512) 475-3736
Glenn.hegar@...

Carlos Uresti
Phone:  (512) 463-0119
Fax:  (512) 463-1017
Carlos.uresti@...

Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
Phone:  (512) 463-0120
Fax:  (512) 463-0229
Email:  juan.hinojosa@...

Judith Zaffirini
Phone:  (512) 463-0121
Fax:  (512) 475-3738
Judith.zaffirini@...

Kip Averitt
Phone:  (512) 463-0122
Fax:  (512) 475-3729
Kip.averitt@...

Royce West
Phone:  (512) 463-0123
Fax:  (512) 463-0299
Royce.west@...

Troy Fraser
Phone:  (512) 463-0124
Fax:  (512) 475-3732
Troy.fraser@...

Jeff Wentworth
Phone:  (512) 463-0125
Fax:  (512) 463-7794
Jeff.wentworth@...

Leticia Van de Putte
Phone:  (512) 463-0126
Fax:  (512) 463-2114
Leticia.vandeputte@...

Eddie Lucio, Jr.
Phone:  (512) 463-0127
Fax:  (512) 463-0061
Eddie.Lucio@...

Robert Duncan
Phone:  (512) 463-0128
(800) 322-9538
Fax:  (512) 463-2424
Robert.duncan@...

Eliot Shapleigh
Phone:  (512) 463-0129
Fax:  (512) 463-0218
Eliot.Shapleigh@...

Craig Estes
Phone:  (512) 463-0130
Fax:  (512) 463-8874
Craig.estes@...

Kel Seliger
Phone:  (512) 463-0131
Fax:  (512) 475-3733
Kel.seliger@...

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)

If you are a member of Lone Star State Pit Bull Club, you are also a
member of the Endangered Breeds Association (EBA). The EBA fights
Breed-Specific Legislation across the USA and Canada.
http://www.endangeredbreedsassociation.org

Your LSSPBC dues and sanctioned ADBA show and weight pull entries
support the EBA. Now the EBA has retained a lobbyist to help us keep
our right to own our dogs in Texas.

From Responsible Pet Owners Alliance (RPOA)

April 19, 2007
Good news!  The Endangered Breed Association has donated $5,000 for a
retainer for a lobbyist to help us oppose the FOUR Dangerous Dog bills
filed this legislative session in Texas:  HB 1355, SB 411, SB 405 and
SB 349.

The lobbyist has been hired and is working to help us defeat these
bills or at the very least amend them to exclude a felony conviction
for a first offense by a dog causing "serious bodily injury or death."

In addition to their own donation, Endangered Breed Association has
established a "Texas Fund" to accept matching funds in a special
account for dog owners in Texas.  The Fund can only be spent on
lobbyists, attorney fees and expert testimony (if needed) in Texas.

RPOA will monitor the account and report weekly to this list on the
fund balance.   After two years, if not spent in Texas, the balance
goes back into their General Fund.  EBA has been instrumental in
defeating legislation in other states and we appreciate their help in
these difficult times.

Please send all donations to:
Texas Fund
Endangered Breed Association
PO Box  879
Walker, LA  70785

Write on the check:  For Texas Fund

We'll have more to report later.  If you aren't receiving our TX-RPOA
E-News, email rpoa@... to subscribe.
Please help us in Texas as we've had several fatalities and with the
media fanning the fires, the call is for Breed Specific Legislation in
Texas and overturning our existing law which prohibits same.

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)

From Responsible Pet Owners Alliance --
See my earlier messages about the details of the bill which also may
include a loophole for Breed-specific legislation. Thanks to the many
of you who have already called or emailed your Representative.

Here's the link to find your STATE Representative:

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/

--------------------------
HB 1355 was NOT voted on last night and is on the Calendar for today,
Tuesday, April 24th!  It's not over 'til it's over ... as Yogi said.
Your calls ARE making a difference because the bill was scheduled to
be #8 on the agenda yesterday and we got it moved to 27th which meant
it did NOT get heard at all yesterday.  Keep up the good work.  If you
called yesterday, call back again today and inquire about whether the
bill passed, if it is scheduled today, and anything just to take up
their time in the legislator's office.  We're asking for amendments
and can win this if you help.

Read the message below from Zandra Anderson, Houston attorney and
American Pit Bull Terrier owner, who is representing RPOA along with
Jeff Shaver with the American Rottweiler Club.  Jeff does Search &
Rescue with his Rotties.
Without these two on our side, we could not have come this far but we
can't do this alone.  We need you!  You, as a Texas dog owner, must
live with these new laws being proposed for years to come.  If you do
nothing, don't moan to us when they are enforced!  As all experienced
dog owners well know, if two dogs get "into it" while out walking your
dog on a leash or at a dog show, someone could receive a serious dog
bite requiring stitches while separating the dogs.  You could become a
convicted felon and serve jail time with rapists and murderers.  Is
this acceptable to you?
________________________________________
Message from Zandra:
HB 1355  NOT VOTED ON YET!! STILL TIME TO WRITE/CALL!

As of 10:15 tonight, the calendar was posted for tomorrow, Tuesday,
April 24, 2007. HB 1355 was not reached on Monday, so we still have
time to keepthose FAXES and CALLS coming! We need more!!! Make your
voice heard for the sake of dog owners and our dogs!!!

Be sure to contact your Texas Representative. We will focus on the
Senate later!! Once you find your Representative, go to their main web
page for their FAX number. There are a few of them who fail to put
their fax number on their website, so you might have to call.

Keep the momentum GOING!!!  Our voices DO make a difference--promise.
Zandra   www.TexasDogLawyer.com

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)

Sorry for the multiple messages on the same subject, but the RPOA sent
out the following information today that makes it even more urgent to
voice our opposition on this bill. The reason is that the bill MAY
CREATE A LOOPHOLE for BREED-SPECIFIC LEGISLATION, according to the
RPOA's attorney and legislative analyst, Zandra Alexander.

I faxed yesterday but this AM I called too, and it took me 2 minutes!
You can do it too. The people who support this bill and the banning of
Pit Bulls, Rottweilers and others are very organized and vocal.

----
It's not too late!  The vote is later today and legislators are
listening.
Keep calling.  Responsible Pet Owners Alliance is trying to get
amendments
made to the bill but can't without your help.
The message below is from Zandra Alexander.
___________________________________

Most Representatives are keeping a tally. All you have to do is say:

"I AM OPPOSED TO HB 1355."

They might ask your name, address and zip, but that's it. Easy as pie!!

Here's the link to find your STATE Representative:

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/


From Zandra Alexander:
Please Forward
VOTING TODAY, MONDAY  4/23/07!! NEED YOUR HELP--FAX & CALL!!

Today is crucial for CALLING and FAXING (no email) your State
Representative because they are going to vote on HB 1355 later TODAY!!
Make your voice heard!!!

This bill makes it a felony if your dog gets out for the first time
and causes serious bodily injury or death.

Importantly, it contains a section on local regulation of dogs which
does not have the protection against Breed Specific Legislation like
our current law has. Therefore, the new law and current law is in
conflict. While I would argue that our state prohibits BSL, this new
law creates the possibility for a loophole for BSL.

Today, call and fax only your State Representative. We will focus on
the Senate later. Only the House is voting TODAY!!!

Zandra Alexander
Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)

Please take a minute to call or fax and make your voice heard
regarding this bill.

In addition, I wanted to let everyone know that the EBA (if you are a
member of LSSPBC you are also a member of the EBA) has set up a
special fund for Texas. Please see below for more info on how to
contribute to the fund. The below message was sent by the Responsible
Pet Owners Alliance.
---------------------------------------------------------
April 20, 2007
The Texas Dangerous Dog Bills are on a greased track!
Due to media calls for swift action on these bills to "get rid of
pitbulls," HB 1355 will be heard on the House Floor Monday, April 23,
2007.  This was deliberately planned to slow down opposition over the
weekend.

HB 1355 and SB 411 (identical bill) have both passed out of
committees.  SB 411 hasn't been scheduled for a Senate Floor vote yet.
  We're told amendments were made and a substitute bill filed for SB
411, but it won't be on the state website until early next week.

Please contact your state representative AND senator (by phone or fax)
who can be found at the url below.  Just type in your address at:
http://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/

Tell them these bills:
*  Should be amended to a misdemeanor for the first offense for
"serious bodily injury or death."
*  Make potential felons out of every dog owner in this state.
*  Responsible pet owners could potentially serve years in jail with
rapists and murderers.
*  Won't prevent a single dog attack in the future.
*  Will make it impossible to place large "rescued" dogs in new homes
due to the extreme liability.  RPOA has a statewide Rescue Program for
Unwanted Pets under the AKC banner.
*  Ask your legislator to amend HB 1355 to a misdemeanor for the first
offense for "serious bodily injury or death" by a dog.

Tell them:
*  You'll call back Monday morning to see how the legislator is voting.
*  If your legislator votes for HB 1355 Monday or SB 411 later, you
will not
only oppose his reelection, but will actively support his opposition.
*  A felony conviction would prevent a dog owner from ever voting,
holding a
public office, certain employment/careers, and hunting with a gun --
after
he is released from prison, that is.  Their life is ruined.

Endangered Breed Association has paid the $5,000 retainer for a
lobbyist to help us get these bills amended to make the first offense
by a dog a misdemeanor, not a felony.

In addition to their own donation, Endangered Breed Association has
established a "Texas Fund" to accept matching funds in a special
account for dog owners in Texas.
RPOA will monitor the account and report weekly to this list on the
fund balance.  EBA has been instrumental in defeating legislation in
other states and we appreciate their help in these difficult times.

Please send all donations for the lobbyist to:
Texas Fund
Endangered Breed Association
PO Box  879
Walker, LA  70785

Write on the check:  For Texas Fund

If you aren't receiving our TX-RPOA E-News, email rpoa@... to
subscribe.  We've had several fatalities and with the media fanning
the fires, the call is for Breed Specific Legislation in Texas and
overturning our existing law which prohibits same.  At this stage of
the game, amendments can be made from the Floor and anything can
happen. Please contact your representatives in the House and Senate.



Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)
To share information, subscribe or unsubscribe,
send an e-mail message to rpoa @ texas.net.

We have several new members so I just wanted to remind everyone of our
upcoming event on Sunday, April 15. The response has been tremendous!

1.  A downloadable .pdf version of the flyer is located at:
http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html
Please print it and share with everyone you know with bullies.

2.  We need raffle prize donations. Admission is free, but we are
selling raffle tickets to defray the costs of the event.

3.  We would love to have vendors come and sell Pit Bull-safe
merchandise (like sturdy collars, toys, treats). There is no charge.
Remember that as with the ADBA rules, merchandise must promote a
positive image of the breed.

We look forward to seeing you all there. Please bring a friend. Any
questions, please email me at mail@....
======================================================================
Lone Star State Club presents "Pit Bull Whisperer Day @ the Park"
    A Tired Pit Bull is a Happy Pit Bull

Lone Star State Pit Bull Club is holding "Pit Bull Whisperer Day @ the
Park" at Veterans Park, Arlington, Texas, on Sunday, April 15, 2007 at
3:00 PM. In keeping with the events' theme, "A Tired Pit Bull is a
Happy Pit Bull," the club will introduce participants to a variety of
ways to safely exercise, train and socialize American Pit Bull
Terriers and Pit Bull mixes.

Information stations and short demos will cover topics including:
obedience and socialization, weight pulling (competitions in which
dogs pull weighted sleds down a track), conformation shows, and
equipment for safe exercise and confinement. Experienced handlers and
judges will be available to answer questions. Rescue groups will be
accepting applications for adoptable dogs, and information about
low-cost vaccinations and spaying and neutering will also be available.

All owners and prospective owners of American Pit Bull Terriers and
Bully breeds, including non-pedigreed and mixed breeds, are welcome.
Dogs accompanying their owners should have a valid rabies tag and a 4'
or shorter leash. Crates are strongly suggested. Admission is free.

"The club wanted to share with the public how we keep our dogs happy
and healthy," said Laura Dapkus, show secretary. "The incidents that
make the newspapers result from a cascade of mistakes – poor breeding,
wrong dog, wrong owner, a lack of training and outlets for energy, and
especially inadequate fencing. One of the club's priorities is to
proactively address these issues."

Since 1981, the Lone Star State Pit Bull Club has served as the
Dallas-Fort Worth area's sanctioned American Dog Breeders Association
(ADBA) club. The ADBA is the largest registry of American Pit Bull
Terriers in the world; the breed is also registered by the United
Kennel Club (UKC), and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as the
American Staffordshire Terrier. Lone Star State Pit Bull Club officers
are available to speak to community groups about the APBT and
responsible dog ownership. Further information is available at:
http://www.lsspbc.com.

Address of event:
Veterans Park – in the large gazebo -- 3600 W. Arkansas Lane,
Arlington, TX.
This event will be held rain or shine.
A downloadable .pdf version of the flyer is located at:
http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html

The RPOA sent the below message. Please voice your opposition to this
bill. It turns law-abiding dog owners into felons the first time their
dog causes a serious injury. This will make it virtually impossible to
find large dogs decent homes because of the extreme liabilities.
Please take a minute to call or fax in your opposition to this bill
or, even better, attend the hearing.

March 30, 2007
Texas Action Alert!  OPPOSE HB 1355 by Gattis, relating to dog attacks
on persons; creating an offense

A committee hearing on HB 1355 will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, April
4, 2007 at the Capitol in Austin, Texas, in Room E2.016 by the House
County Affairs Committee.  Committee Clerk:  Travis Sampley (512)
463-0760.

We need you in Austin next Wednesday to OPPOSE this bill.  If you can
be there, let Jeff Shaver know as he is coordinating our efforts:
call Jeff at (713) 557-0807.  If you can't be there, please contact
the legislators below to register your opposition.  At the hearing,
you can sign a card of opposition without speaking.

For more information, email rpoa@... .

Bill text may be found at:  http://tinyurl.com/ypj5u8 .

Ask that the first incident be a misdemeanor, not a felony offense.
Contact the committee members below and your own representative also,
who can befound on the Legislature's web site home page
www.capitol.state.tx.us with a "search."

Rep. Gattis says the bill is to send a message!  If you own a dog in
the state of Texas, you should be alarmed about this bill.  The
message is that if your dog escapes from your yard and causes serious
bodily injury or death to a person, you could become a convicted felon
and serve time in jail with rapists and convicted murderers!  Your
life could be ruined, your career down the drain.  Senator Eliot
Shapleigh is amending his SB 411 in the Senate to be identical to HB 1355.

HB 1355 will not stop one single dog attack and it won't bring back
Lillian Stiles who was the victim of a fatal attack by six mixed breed
dogs in Texas.  What it will do is kill the RPOA Rescue Program for
unwanted
pets in Texas and have a detrimental effect on dog adoptions from ALL
animal shelters and animal control facilities throughout the state.
Who will
want this extreme liability to own a dog?  Is this the intent of the
bill?
Any dog can escape from an enclosure and the pack instinct comes into
play if joining with other loose dogs.  Most dog owners say they had no
previous knowledge their dog (or dogs) would do such a thing when
involved in a serious or fatal attack on a person.

This bill is being called "Lillian's Law" and is an emotional response
to Lillian Stiles's tragic death.  Lillian's family has formed the Texas
Families Against Dangerous Dogs, which will be getting together for
media interviews and a rally on the south steps of the capitol at
12:30 pm on April 4 before attending the committee hearing.  If you
can be there
also, contact Jeff (info above).  Jeff will be speaking to the media
representing Responsible Pet Owners Alliance.  He needs your support.

Please contact the legislators below and OPPOSE this bill as written.
Phone calls and faxes are the most effective as e-mail is easily
deleted.  If
calling, ask for the legislative aide in charge of the bill and simply
register your "OPPOSITION."  If e-mailing, put "OPPOSE HB 1355" in the
Subject Line.

Bill author:  Representative Dan Gattis,
PO Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768
Phone:  512-463-0309; Fax:  512-499-8354;
Email:  dan.gattis@...

Author of Companion Bill:  Senate Bill 411
Senator Eliot Shapleigh
PO Box 12068, Capitol Station, Austin, Texas 78711
Phone:  512-463-0129, Fax:  512-463-0218
Email:  eliot.shapleigh@...

House County Affairs Committee
Address for all:
PO Box 2910
Austin, TX 78768

COMMITTEE CLERK:  Travis Sampley
PHONE:  512-463-0760

Chair: Rep. Wayne Smith
Ph: (512) 463-0733
Fax: (512) 463-1323
Toll free:  (866) 423-5987
E-mail:  wayne.smith@...

Vice-Chair: Rep. Elliott Naishtat
Ph: (512) 463-0668
Fax: (512) 463-8022
E-mail:  elliott.naishtat@...

Rep. Valinda Bolton
Ph: (512) 463-0652
Fax: (512) 463-0565
E-mail:  valinda.bolton@...

Rep. Garnet Coleman
Ph:  (512) 463-0524
Fax:  (512) 463-1260
E-mail:  Ryan.james@...

Rep. David Farabee
Ph: (512) 463-0534
Fax: (512) 463-8161
E-mail:  david.farabee@...

Rep. Patricia Harless
Ph:  (512) 463-0496
Fax: (512) 463-1507
E-mail:  patricia.harless@...

Rep. Joe Heflin
Ph: (512) 463-0604
Fax: (512) 236-0704
E-mail:  joe.heflin@...

Rep. David Leibowitz
Ph:  (512) 463-0269
Fax:  (512) 320-0555
E-mail:  david.leibowitz@...

Rep. Todd Smith
Ph:  (512) 4630522
Fax:  (512) 463-9529
E-mail:  todd.smith@...

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)
To share information, subscribe or unsubscribe,
send an e-mail message to rpoa @ texas.net.

Lone Star State Pit Bull Club has a special event planned - don't
miss it! Bring your friends who have American Pit Bull Terriers or
even those with an interest in the breed.

We are calling the event "Pit Bull Whisperer Day" because we all want
to have a better relationship with our dogs. As we all know, this is
a high-energy, and -dare we say- stubborn, breed. Wouldn't it be nice
to channel that energy and intelligence into something that will make
the dog (and owner) happy and content?

Our theme is "A Tired Pit Bull is a Happy Pit Bull." So, we are
setting up information stations and short demonstrations on a variety
of subjects such as obedience, weight-pulling, conformation showing
and more. Because the number one problem facing our breed is dogs
running at large, we will bring examples of both correct and
incorrect equipment for exercising and confining APBTs.

All well-socialized dogs are welcome to attend. Please use a four-
foot or shorter leash, and it's a good idea to bring your crate.

It's also a day for fun and fellowship, so if you like bring a
covered dish.

*We need raffle prizes for our raffle!* So, please see your local
feed store for donations.  We will sell raffle tickets to defray the
costs of the event, but admission to the event is FREE.

The flyer is posted in the "Files" section of the Yahoo Group, so
please print it out and post it at your local pet stores, vet's
offices, etc. Hand it out to everyone you see with an APBT.

If anyone has any questions please let Chyrell or me know.

Thanks and see ya there!
-Laura

Last night Don and I went to the Garland City Council meeting
previously mentioned in our messages. At issue was a resolution asking
the Texas State Legislature to remove the language in the TX Health
and Safety Code that prohibits Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL).
Garland wants to be able to enact breed-specific regulations on
fencing and containment, but cannot under state law. Staff and Council
emphasized several times that they are not in favor of a ban, but
don't seem at concerned that if state law changes, there will be bans
and undue burdens on responsible dog owners all over Texas.

Of course the resolution passed unanimously. It is just the official
city opinion, so it doesn't change anything about the way we do
business here. We don't think (we hope) that anything will come of it
in the legislature this session. The session should end in a couple of
months (though it is frequently extended) then it does not meet again
til 2009.

Last Thursday night we attended the Oak Cliff town hall meeting hosted
by area city councilwoman Dr. Elba Garcia. The meeting was called
because residents are frustrated about loose dogs roaming the area. A
so-called Pit Bull that attacked an SUV to get at a cat made the TV
news. Dr. Garcia said that she has had a lot of questions "Why can't
we ban Pit Bulls in Dallas." It does not appear that Dr. Garcia or
Dallas in general is going to push for a change in TX state law.

The common thing about both cases, "Pit Bulls" are running loose and
citizens are demanding immediate action. City council members are
getting phone calls, "Why can't you ban these animals?". And in the
exact words of one staff member, "We need to do something before
somebody gets killed." I wish it were a simple problem to solve, but I
offered the clubs' assistance to blanket the areas and educate people,
and do whatever they need us to do. I told them people would drive
over from Fort Worth to help -- our club members love the dogs so much
that this is not out of the question at all.

Keep talking to people you see on the street about responsible
ownership. Especially young people. You can make a difference.

Reminder, we have a meeting on March 18th. Hope to see you there!
-Laura
mail@...
www.lsspbc.com

Hello,
If you are in Dr. Elba Garcia's city council district, we need your
presence at a community meeting Thursday, March 1: (from Dr. Garcia's
web page)

District 1 To Hold Neighborhood Meeting
Regarding Animal Services and Loose/Stray Animals

My office has received a number of phone calls these past few weeks
about loose/stray animals in your neighborhood. I have requested
Animal Control Services to do a sweep of the various neighborhoods
with the problem areas. Additionally, my staff has been mailing out
letters to the residents in the affected areas advising people of this
matter and providing city ordinance and educational information.
I will also be holding a neighborhood meeting on this matter. At this
meeting you will meet the new Manager of Animal Services, Mr. Willie
McDaniel, where he will discuss his strategies to address this issue.
I hope you can join us!
Thurs., March 1, 6:30 p.m.
Methodist Medical Center,
Gossard Conf. Rm. #201
(in the Service Building off of Colorado and Bishop Ave.)

The reason for the meeting (surprise surprise) is that a lot of loose
dogs are running loose and causing problems. The Dallas Morning News
article is here-
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/city/southdallas/stories/DN-ocf\
ocus_24met.ART0.North.Edition1.2064bff.html#

Not sure what district you are in? Click here for a map.
http://www.dallascityhall.com/government/council/adopted_map.html

Even though I am in a different council district, I will still be in
attendance representing the club and I suggest that others do the same.

Dallas has enough clout with state government that if the city
aggressively lobbies the state to allow BSL, we will be in even more
trouble than we are in now with Watauga, Garland, Houston and God
knows who else pressing the state to change the law.

I am also extending a personal plea to all of you to stop and talk to
everyone you see with a Bully breed, Rottie, Chow or other endangered
breed -- especially if they are behaving irresponsibly -- and let them
know that 2007 could be the year that we lose the right to own these
dogs. You would be surprised how many people are blissfully unaware.
Tell your vet, and the people where you buy your dog food. They talk
to a lot of people every day.

Please do it for our elders, who fought these same battles 20 years
ago. Please do it for our dogs.

Thanks,
-Laura

The below message is from RPOA, who fights Breed-Specific Legislation
in Texas. Please write to the Committee members, even if your State
Senator is not on the committee. If YOUR State Senator is, this gives
you extra impact so to find out please click here-
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Home.aspx
The Lone Star State Pit Bull Club website has additional info on BSL.
http://www.lsspbc.com/PROTECT.html
========================================================

TX-RPOA E-News
From Responsible Pet Owners Alliance,
the reasonable voice regarding animal issues in Texas.
Responsible Pet Owners Alliance is an animal welfare organization,
not "animal rights" and, yes, there is a difference.
Permission granted to crosspost.

February 25, 2007
Senate Bill 349 by Ellis has been assigned to the Criminal Justice
Committee; "Relating to the regulation of dangerous pets by certain
populous
counties; providing a criminal penalty."  The lists of dangerous dogs
compiled in other cities usually include American Staffordshire
Terriers,
American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, (or anything
with
the appearance of the above!), and sometimes include:  Bull Terriers,
Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, Malamutes, Chows, Akitas and
many
other large dog breeds and mixes.

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance OPPOSES this bill.
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/80R/billtext/pdf/SB00349I.pdf
Please contact all of the committee members (below) to express your
opposition.  Faxes, phone calls and emails are needed.  No hearings are
scheduled at this time.  Please ask your national breed club to help
Texas
dog owners.

When emailing committee members regarding your position on the bill,
put
"Oppose Senate Bill 349 regulating dangerous pets" in the Subject Line.
If
they don't read your entire message, at least they will get your
position on
the bill before deleting it.

Talking points:

1)  While this bill addresses "pets," the actual focus will be on dogs
because Senator Ellis tried to open the door for Breed Specific
Legislation
two years ago and failed.

2)  Opens the door for Breed Specific Legislation because it allows the
county commissioners to "prohibit" dogs they pre-determine are
dangerous
without regard to an individual animal's behavior.

3)  This is the way to ban certain breeds by allowing the commissioners
to
impose a fee on ownership.  The law does not limit the fee, so it could
become too expensive to own certain dogs.

4)  Allows for evaluating, confining, and inspecting where the dog is
kept
based on breed rather than the behavior of an individual dog which is
an
unwanted intrusion.

5)  Is designed so that the lawmakers can make it unappealing to own
whatever breeds they decide to target regardless of an individual dog's
behavior.

6)  Criminalizes failure to comply with any order by the commissioners
court, but since there is no order yet taken, it is impossible to know
what
the law may impose.

Senate Criminal Justice Committee members
Address for all:
PO Box 12068
Capitol Station
Austin, TX 78711

COMMITTEE CLERK:  Mahala Price
PHONE:  512-463-0345
ROOM:  SHB 470

Chair: Senator John Whitmire
Ph: (512) 463-0115
Fax: (512) 475-3737
john.whitmire@...

Vice-Chair: Senator Kel Seliger
Ph: (512) 463-0131
Fax: (512) 475-3733
kel.seliger@...

Senator John Carona
Ph: (512) 463-0116
Fax: (512) 463-3135
john.carona@...

Senator Bob Deuell
Ph:  (512) 463-0102
Fax:  (512) 463-7202
don.forse@...

Senator Rodney Ellis
Ph: (512) 463-0113
Fax: (512) 463-0006
rodney.ellis@...

Senator Glenn Hegar
Ph:  (512) 463-0118
Fax: (512) 475-3736
District18.hegar@...

Senator Juan Hinojosa
Ph: (512) 463-0120
Fax: (512) 463-0229
leslie.nadelman@...

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance
900 NE Loop 410  #311-D
San Antonio, TX  78209
Phone:  (210) 822-6763
Fax:  (210) 822-9038
Website:  www. responsiblepetowners. org
$15 Annual dues (January - December)
To share information, subscribe or unsubscribe,
send an e-mail message to rpoa @ texas.net.

Hello,
Since the legislature is in session I wanted to let everyone know what
is going on with the possibility of breed-specific legislation (BSL)
in Texas.

Here is a good summary on the bills that have been proposed in the
legislature -
http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/politics/stories/MYSA022007.01B.dangerous_dogs.\
10c5953.html

Senator Ellis's bill SB349 is designed to allow Harris County to pass
Breed Specific Legislation. We defeated this in the last session of
the legislature regarding the city of Houston.

Today's Garland edition of the Dallas Morning News talks about
Garlands' desire to change state law:

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/city/garland/stories/DN-pitbull\
s_23met.ART.North.Edition1.210bd9d.html

The city of Watauga (near Grapevine) passed a resolution to ask the
state legislature to remove the part of the TX Health and Safety Code
that prohibits BSL. The city of Garland has drafted a similar
resolution in committee but has not voted on it yet. We think the city
council meeting to vote on it will be March 6, but won't know for sure
til the agenda comes out. I'll send the info when it is published.

Garland's resolution is unique in that it states that the city does
not support an outright ban. However, if the TX Health and Safety code
is changed as the resolution requests, the result will be bans in
cities all over Texas. The city staff and my city council person have
been very responsive - I have offered my help and the clubs'
assistance with educational efforts because I agree that there is a
problem with dogs running at large. I have collared more than one on
my street.

The club website has more info regarding BSL and how to get involved.
http://www.lsspbc.com/PROTECT.html

On a happier note, please save the date for Sunday, April 15 for our
"Pit Bull Whisperer" event. See the events page for more info.
http://www.lsspbc.com/events.html

If anyone lives in Garland, please e-mail me.

Thanks!
-Laura mail@...