In July 2010, the Department of Justice issued a landmark ruling that says local governments can't discriminate against service dogs based on breed. When a city like Denver discriminates against a service dog because of its breed, that is a violation of the equal access mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act. The government also pointed out that several of the breeds targeted by breed specific legislation have proven themselves to be successful service dogs.

The Denver Post disagrees. In an editorial published on September 8th, they made the paper's position clear: They think Denver should be allowed to set its own rules and continue to enforce its breed ban, even against service dogs.

Thousands of dogs have been killed by Denver's breed ban. There is no evidence that breed bans are effective, yet there's plenty of research that shows they don't work, they can't be accurately enforced and they're a waste of taxpayer dollars.

The Denver Post shouldn't be using column space to promote irrational fear, misinformation and discrimination against any dog, especially not devoted service animals who provide their human companions with independence.

Photo: Veteran Glenn Belcher and his service dog Sky, courtesy of The Animal Law Center