JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- There is a growing trend allowing renters with so-called dangerous dogs to keep their pets once the dogs receive a certain type of training, Animal Care and Protective Services say.
Labeling a breed as dangerous is unfair, said Scott Trebatoski, a spokesperson for Animal Care and Protective Services, said.
And in a growing trend, some renters are being told they can keep their pet, even though its breed in banned, because it has completed Canine Good Citizen classes.
"There's a lot of folklore about pit bulls, dobermans and German shepherds being bred to attack people and a lot of those myths are not true," said Trebatoski.
All pet owners should train their dogs, he said, but now the new classes are even more beneficial for so-called dangerous breed.
"They're [tenants] looking out more for liability both for themselves and protecting other residents, but if a big dog comes in with a certificate saying it has gone through this process and its well-behaved, they often we'll go ahead and let it come in," said Trebatoski.
The classes are offered at various locations including the Jacksonville Humane Society.
Trebatoski warns, if you find a Canine Good Citizen trainer online, make sure they are certified by the Animal Kennel Club.
First Coast News