A WOODRIDGE vet says it would be rare for him to see the dangerous breeds the state government want banned.
A government consultation process is seeking input on which restricted breeds should be banned and whether their owners should face potential jail time.
Last April, a six-year-old Woodridge girl was taken to hospital in a serious condition after being attacked by two dogs, and an energy meter-reader was mauled to death in Greenbank last December.
Local veterinarian and practice owner of Mooney Street Veterinary Surgery, Arthur Woo, said dogs were a reflection of their environment, but genetics also played a role.
“People have these dogs for a reason – you don’t get an aggressive Japanese Tosa for a playmate,” Mr Woo said.
“That’s the whole purpose of the dog.
“But ultimately, their behaviour will be determined by learned behaviours, which is imparted through experience.”
The government’s proposals will put a ban on restricted breeds like Dogo Argentino, American pit bull terriers Japanese Tosa, and Presa Canario.
Dr Woo said 99% of dogs he sees are friendly.
“People love their pets, so they bring their pets to the vet,” Mr Woo said.
“They wouldn’t bring them here and pay the money if they weren’t responsible and concerned.
“I don’t see dangerous breeds, and I guess people who have those breeds don’t take them to the vet.”
The government’s proposed changes include implementing an education campaign and handing out on-the-spot fines for off-leash dogs.
Queensland is the only state in the country without imprisonment as a penalty for dog attacks, but that may change following the community-consultation period, which ends on 24 August.
The potential changes could see imprisonment as the maximum penalty for the most serious dog attacks.
