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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
The Pit Bull Placebo: Law, Culture and Companion Dogs, Feb. 24
The Student Animal Legal Defense Fund at the Shepard Broad Law Center invites you to learn about dog breeding restrictions and the legal atmosphere surrounding much-vilified breeds such as pit bulls. Karen Delise, Founder of the National Canine Research Council and author of the publication The Pit Bull Placebo: Media Myths and Politics of Canine Aggression, will discuss the demonization of our canine companions at this free event on Feb. 24 at 12 p.m. in the second floor law center faculty study.
Young woman with a pit bull.
Delise identified the cultural process by which bloodhounds, German Shepherds and Dobermans were vilified in the public imagination decades ago. Through the same process, pit bulls were later denigrated as people stripped these dogs of all the traits that we value in dogs, leaving only monster myths and urban legend in their place.
The presentation will walk you through the modern sociology and behavioral science with a focus on the resulting legal implications.
With a true understanding of what has happened, both in recent years and in the past, attorneys can lead in changing public attitudes toward animal abuse; in putting dog-related injuries in a proper perspective; in challenging laws that discriminate against particular groups of dogs; and in establishing a standard of responsible pet ownership for dog owners.
For more information: manocchioj@nsu.law.nova.edu