Bromont, Que., council votes to ban pit bulls

People in Bromont, Que., are no longer allowed to adopt or buy pitbull dogs, according to a new municipal bylaw which came into effect on January 15.

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The town joins about 50 other municipalities in Quebec which don't allow the breed.

Mayor Pauline Quinlan said the bylaw was changed at the advice of the town's police. There hasn't been a pit bull attack in Bromont, but Quinlan said council is worried they could be dangerous.

"You know, these dogs are strong, and they will not let go of their prey," she said.

Council voted unanimously to ban the dogs.

People who own pit bulls will be able to keep them, but new pit bulls won't be allowed to be registered with the municipality.

Petition launched to reverse decision

The decision sparked animmediate backlash. A petition was launched which now has over 1,000 signatures.

Comments on the petition say experts should havebeen consulted before the bylaw was changed. They argue pit bulls are perfectly safe, aslong as they arewelltrained.

Quinlan said council is willing to reverse the decision, if members can be persuadedthe dogs aren't dangerous.

"Let's be open to finding solutions, but I think the goal is to make sure everybody's safe," she said.