Pit Bull Supporters Hopeful About Special Session

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Animal advocates in Maryland may soon get another chance to fight a ruling that recently labeled pit bulls and pit mixes inherently dangerous. Monique Griego has more on what the breed's supporters are hoping for in next month's special session.

Ever since the Maryland Court of Appeals declared pit bulls and pit mixes inherently dangerous back in May, animal advocates have been fighting to stop the ruling.

"I was appalled, to be honest," said Doray Sitko.

Sitko has owned and now fosters pit bulls for a local shelter. She says while the law is currently on hold, its effects are already being felt.

"Already been instances of people being evicted and having to give up animals," Sitko said.

But there are those who support the ruling, which came down after a string of attacks. In 2007, a 10-year-old boy was vicious attacked outside his Towson home. In 2011, a five-year-old boy was mauled and a 78-year-old woman was nearly killed by a pit bull in Greektown.

"There are unfortunate incidents that are going to occur with every species of animal," said Sitko.

The breed's supporters are now putting pressure on lawmakers to take up the issue at the upcoming special session in August.

"We're really trying any avenue we can to make sure all dogs are treated equally," said Aileen Gabbey.

Gabbey from the Maryland SPCA says the state Court of Appeals also has a pending motion for re-consideration so until that is taken up, the ruling cannot take effect. But the clock is ticking to change things.

"Legislation like this is not going to be effective and it's not going to work in any form in the future," said Sitko.

While there is still no guarantee that lawmakers will take up the issue next month, animal advocates are hopeful.

The special session will be held August 9 and is expected to last three days.