PETS: Keys to domestication

Stephanie’s column in Saturday’s Coeur Voice, “Careful before adopting a Malinois” breed of dog — which applies to many of the dangerous, er, to be PC “bully” dogs, was an excellent way to approach the controversial issue.

My research shows without a doubt the bully breeds have a genetic propensity for disaster as pets. As she states, “Without extensive research, training, and consistent stimulation, a Malinois can be a very dangerous addition to any family.”

The needs and control of these dogs is quite different from the norm and if certain criteria of management is not met, they can be highly dangerous. I might add awareness and education for the general public is very important also when around these type of animals, using a cautious approach with a responsible owner’s consent and advice. And caution for interaction with other animals such as dogs, birds and cats being walked on a leash in public, dog parks and at businesses.

Animals have been bred for certain desirable and undesirable genetic traits through history, i.e. pitt bulls, German shepherds, quarter horses, Bengal cats, Savannah cats, etc. We need to manage them carefully, even when closely bonded to a certain human.

Exotic pets in public, such as big cats, cougars and cheetahs of puma lineage, of which I am familiar, are not an aggressive breed when basics are provided. They are easily domesticated to a point when raised from kittenhood. But because of their size, you must use a cautious approach under the owner’s consent and advice until they become used to you. All the same issues and advice as Stephanie Vichinsky stated.

JAMES H. MUNDY IV

Coeur d’Alene