My beloved toy poodle, Mochi, was tragically killed by a pit bull on 12th November 2024 at Box hill Central. This personal nightmare has impelled me to act in preventing a similar misfortune from happening to anyone else.

Dog breeds like pit bulls are termed "high-risk" due to the damage they are capable of inflicting, given their strength and aggression. These breeds, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in the US, are involved in a significant proportion of fatal dog attacks, with pit bulls specifically accounting for a majority of these fatalities (Sacks, Sinclair, Gilchrist, Golab, & Lockwood, 2000).

It is a common dictum that "there are no bad dogs, just bad owners". However, as my story painfully highlights, it is also true to state that not all dog breeds are suitable for public and residential areas. Current laws allow virtually anyone to own any breed of dog, without adequate checks or balances to ensure public safety.

No resident of Melbourne should have to endure the pain and distress of an aggressive canine attack, or worse, the demise of a loved cherished pet. Henceforth, I propose that Melbourne City enforce stricter restrictions on the ownership of high-risk dog breeds, like the Pit Bull, to safeguard residents and the city's dog population from avoidable harm.

Remember Mochi, and protect the right to safe, fearless cohabitation with our furry friends. Sign the petition, and let us bring about this pivotal change together.