The mean ones are the aberrations still. But the aberrations are more numerous.
—RICHARD F. STRATTON July 8, 1987
The July 1987 issue of SI reported the frightening statistics that would be repeated for the next 25 years: the pit bull terrier was responsible for 67% of the dog related fatalities. Pit nutters blame this issue of SI for fanning the flames that ignited media hysteria. (the media hysteria was ignited in the 1800's) The quote from the pro pit bull camp by dog fighting aficionado Stratton certainly did not help the nutter's defense of their wiggle butts. One striking difference between 1987 and 2012 is that people within the veterinary profession and the humane fields had not yet been bought or beaten into submission by Jane Berkey and Company.
A week after the release of SI, the New York Times chimed in...
"American pit bull terriers can become exceedingly aggressive, even when properly trained and handled. Doberman pinschers, Rottweilers and other large dogs can be dangerous too, but their attacks are easier to ward off."
Ten days after the New Times...
Patricia Hollis of D.C. was driving in her car, child strapped in the back seat and pittie riding shotgun. For no apparent reason, the pit bull attacked her. Hollis was able to get the pit bull out of the car but then feared it would be hit by a car so she opened the door and let the pit bull back in and it promptly attacked her again. Hollis forced the pit bull out a second time and drove her self to the hospital for treatment to the bites on her hands, arms, legs and chest. The man-biter was picked up later and given a dirt nap. Too bad the facebook nutters weren't around to champion his cause.
OBTW, the nanny dog did not hurt the child.
Sports Illustrated July, 27, 1987
New York Times, August 2, 1987
Pittsburgh Press, August 12, 1987
Washington Post, August 14, 1987
