Letter from NJFDC to city of Garfield
April 26, 2010

Dear Mayor Frank Calandriello:

It has been brought to our attention that Garfield is considering an ordinance regarding restrictions on “pit bulls” and describes them as  “any canine bred or used for fighting with other animals or with people” and includes Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, and “dogs that have the appearance and characteristics of being predominantly of these breeds of dogs.”

Such an ordinance would be contrary to New Jersey State Statute 4:19-36 which  prohibits municipalities from enacting breed-specific legislation.      In specific it states: "The provisions of this act shall supersede any law, ordinance, or regulation concerning vicious or potentially dangerous dogs, any specific breed of dog, or any other type of dog inconsistent with this act enacted by any municipality, county, or county or local board of health."

The New Jersey Federation of Dog Clubs promotes responsible dog ownership and education.   Members of our member clubs have experience with all breeds of dogs in many situations.   We support the proper care and training of all dogs.   We do not support canine profiling and believe it's the deed, not the breed.

We have worked in the past with municipalities in resolving conflict resolution and in drafting legislation.   We would be happy to work with the City of Garfield.    Please feel free to contact me at the address above or at xxx-xxx-xxxx to review the situations that your City is trying to resolve.    We will assist you in any way we can.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Priscilla Gabosch, President

Phone number above has been removed for privacy reasons.  To contact a board member please go to the officers page.