MA: Quincy Housing Authority to Ban Pit Bulls and Other Large Breeds

September 15, 2015 6:08 PM MST


The Quincy Housing Authority in Quincy, Mass. has proposed a new policy that will ban pit bulls, doberman pinschers and rottweilers, any mix of the three, or any dog with “identifiable characteristics specific to one of these breeds,” according to the Patriot Ledger. The ban would also include any large dog over 40 pounds.

The new policy has already been approved by the commissioners of the housing authority, which would include the state-funded family housing in Snug Harbor, West Acres, and South and Franklin Streets. The housing authority is just waiting for the state's approval.

The proposed policy would ban any pit bulls, doberman pinschers and rottweilers that owners already have, forcing dog owners to either move or give up their pet. Other large breeds would be grandfathered in. This twist of the policy has many dog owners screaming discrimination.

Currently, tenants of the family housing complexes are allowed to have one dog or cat for a pet fee. Though the state of Mass. banned breed specific legislation, privately-owned institutions are able to discriminate against any breed they wish.

Finding pet-friendly housing is already difficult, finding housing that allows certain breeds is even more so. Evidence has shown that discriminating against certain breeds does not work, since all breeds are capable of biting or becoming dangerous.

Quincy Housing Authority to ban pit bulls and other large breeds - Boston animal advocacy | Examiner.com