Traci Warwick-Johnson: Any dog, not just pit bulls, can be bite if provoked

Re “Start protecting us from dangerous pit bulls” (Opinions, March 22): I am tired of people bad-mouthing the breed of pit bulls. I understand there are vicious dogs, but most breeds can turn on you if provoked or spooked.

We are being brainwashed into believing that all pit bulls will be vicious at some point and none can be trusted. I disagree. I have had the honor of knowing a very sweet pit bull named Red Dog. He had been abused, burned with cigarettes and put into dog fights before my son rescued him.

I admit that when I first laid eyes on him I felt fear and I think he felt the same. As days moved forward we came to an understanding and trust; before long that dog became a part of my family.

I have had many dogs over the years. Different breeds have their own temperaments and some have been loving, loyal and some have also had moments of lashing out after being bothered. So it’s not just pit bulls that can “turn on you.” Even some humans have moments of losing control and doing heinous things.

I feel sad for the people who have been disfigured, mauled or killed by a pit bull. But please do not judge them all the same.

This story was originally published March 24, 2015 at 10:23 AM with the headline "Traci Warwick-Johnson: Any dog, not just pit bulls, can be bite if provoked."