Owners of so-called dangerous dogs took to the streets outside Montreal City Hall Monday evening.
They are angry the city wants to impose restrictions on their pets – including mandatory muzzles and microchips.
The new bylaw would also ban new pit bull-type dogs from living in the city.
Dozens of people showed up with signs and posters while some brought their pets to send a message to Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre.
“The problem with this is not about education, it’s not about making us better. It’s about persecuting these people that only want to love their dogs,” said Kim Doucet.
READ MORE: Pit bull attack reignites debate on banning specific dog breeds
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The proposed legislation comes after a Pointe-aux-Trembles woman Christiane Vadnais, 55, was mauled to death by a dog.
The law would come into effect at the end of September.
Current owners would be able to keep their pit bull-type dogs, but under strict regulations, including owning a permit to prove they have no criminal record, as well as micro-chipping the dog and sterilizing it.
“It’s targeting the wrong end of the leash, they should be targeting irresponsible owners case by case, whether they own a chihuahua, a pit bull or a great Dane,” said Dana Hyde, pit bull advocate.
READ MORE: Protest planned against Montreal’s ‘dangerous dog’ law proposal
Monday, dog lovers lined up in the hopes they’d be selected to speak at city council and voice their concerns to the mayor.
Three were chosen to ask questions during the council.
“So, when are the new inspectors supposed to be put in place and where are they gonna be trained?” asked one attendee.
“Those new trainers are gonna be ready this fall,” Coderre replied.
Advocates hope to change the city’s mind on the regulations.
“We are having a very balanced and inclusive regulation, I mean we’re talking about attrition here, we’re not saying that we will slaughter them all,” Coderre said.
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