Success: City to Lift Discriminatory Pit Bull Ban

Target: Sharon Powell, Mayor of City of Excelsior Springs

Goal: Thank the Excelsior Springs City Council for lifting the pit bull ban in their city and encourage other cities, throughout Missouri and the rest of the U.S., to do the same.

What may be perceived as a small win for the city of Excelsior Springs is actually a large win for dogs and dog lovers throughout the U.S. This previous ForceChange petition called for changes to breed specific legislation policies, and these changes are slowly coming about. Recently, Excelsior Springs in the state of Missouri—where dogs, including pit bulls, were legally banned for the “dangers” they pose to society—has revoked its discriminatory laws. Now, for the first time in decades, pit bulls are once again allowed to live in Excelsior Springs. Instead, the city will ban only “dangerous dogs,” which are classified as dogs that have actually caused physical harm to someone.

This legislation is especially important right now. Shelters across the U.S. are becoming increasingly inundated with surrendered pets due to inflation and an inability to provide proper financial care for these animals. Pit bulls are the most euthanized dog in shelters today, and an estimated 1-2 million of these misperceived dogs are euthanized each year. That equates to killing about 2,800 innocent pit bulls per day.

Sign this petition to thank the Excelsior Springs City Council for lifting their previously instated pit bull ban and for giving these dogs a better chance at life.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Mayor Powell,

We at the ForceChange community would like to thank you for lifting the ban on pit bull ownership in Excelsior Springs. The powerful accusations and stereotypes forced upon pit bulls have, for decades, harmed these dogs in more ways than could ever be anticipated. Due to misconceptions and bans targeting these dogs, pit bulls are the number one most euthanized dog in the U.S. today. Each year, an estimated 1-2 million pit bulls are euthanized in shelters—that means a minimum of 2,800 innocent dogs are killed every single day.

Your lift of the pit bull ban is particularly crucial in current times. Inflation has affected people across the U.S., leaving many unable to afford basic necessities for their pets. In turn, shelters are becoming increasingly inundated with surrendered animals—so much so that even previously no-kill shelters are turning to euthanasia due to severe overcrowding. And, since pit bulls do not often get adopted, they are typically the first to be euthanized.

Thank you again, and may you continue to speak on behalf of those discriminated against.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: Nom d’util