Switzerland bans to keep pitbull dogs

Switzerland's veterinary authority on Friday recommended a total ban on keeping pitbulls, as well as tighter restrictions on other attack dogs. The Federal Veterinary Office recommended tighter restrictions on 13 dog breeds, including bull terriers, Rottweilers and Dobermans. Anyone wanting to keep one of these dogs must apply for renewed approval and be able to prove the origin of the animal, according to the proposals.

Pitbulls are not a recognized breed of dog and are bred from other types only for their aggressiveness, the veterinary office said in a statement. Dogs that are crossbreeds from any of the 13 listed, including pitbulls, will be banned, according to the new proposals. Switzerland's media has been demanding tighter controls on dangerous dogs since a 6-year-old Turkish boy was mauled and killed by a pack of pitbulls last month in the town of Oberglatt.

"The fatal accident in Oberglatt in Zurich canton (state) has relaunched the debate on the necessity of more restrictive measures against dangerous dogs," the veterinary office statement said. Switzerland's government still has to approve the veterinary office's suggestions before they become law, reports the AP. N.U.