Trinidad and Tobago Law Targets Pit Bulls

I moved to Tobago 20 years ago from England. I work as a veterinary assistant and have two pit bulls. When I moved here, the first thing that struck me was the general attitude towards dogs, strays in particular. They would have stones thrown at them, or people would kick them if they got too near. I would like to say that things have got better, but there is still a lot left to be desired.

Rooney in Amsterdam

While living in Amsterdam, my fiancé and I decided it was time to add a third member to our family and adopt a dog. As we headed to the dieren stichting (animal shelter), we had every intention of adopting a small breed puppy; a dog that would be easy to travel with. Fortunately for us, we ended up with the exact opposite type of dog.

The Story of Ruby: Pit Bull on Death Row

What we can learn from the breed ban repeal in Holland is best told by Ruby. This is her story. Ruby was seized in 2008 under the Holland’s original Dangerous Dog Act, which banned pit bull type dogs. Ruby was put on death row after being accused of attacking a 1-year old boy, but her owner appealed that decision in court.

Hard Times in Tobago

Having pit bulls in Tobago is not particularly easy. I have two pit bulls, Fairoe and Rochey, who I hand reared from the age of 2 days old. Many times when I am walking my dogs, I am either stopped by the police and asked if I am capable of managing the dogs, or I see people cross the street to avoid us.