ALSATIAN DOGS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21874, 9 August 1934, Page 14

ALSATIAN DOGS

PROPOSED LEGISLATION PROTEST BY OWNERS " ANNIHILATION OF BREED" Strong criticism of the proposed legislation governing the control of Alsatian dogs was made at a well-attended meeting of owners last night. The meeting' was convened by Mr. L. Lees, president of tho New Zealand German Shepherd Dog Club, and Mr. F. G. Baylis, president of the Auckland Alsatian Club. "The Alsatian dog is ono of man's best friends," said Mr. Ernest Davis, who presided. ''The legislation spells annihilation of tho breed, and we are here to see that justice is done to that faithful animal." (Applause.) "If any differences do exist between the clubs represented here to-night, wo have agreed to sink them in a united defence of the Alsatian dog," said .Mr. Baylis. "As lovers of a splendid breed, we feel very hurt that further attempts are being made, through Parliament, to launch another attack on a sagacious animal." Alsatian dogs were exceptionally popular in overseas countries, including England, Canada, Australia and South Africa. Although the breed was common in the most densely-populated areas of the United Kingdom, no attempt. had been made there to introduce legislation similar to that proposed in the Dominion. "This is a free country," remarked Mr. Davis. "It is impossible that this bill should be passed." (Hear, hear.) Mr, Baylis: New Zealand will be % laughing stock.

On behalf of the New Zealand German Shepherd Dog Club, Mr. Lees said it was absolutely essential that drastio action should be taken" to defeat the bill. "The police have overstepped the mark in some cases of complaint concerning the conduct of Alsatians," said Mr. Lees. "No owner should be ordered to get rid of his dog unless by a Court edict."

A lengthy resolution, condemning the proposed legislation and setting out the case for the owners, was carried unanimously, and it was decided to forward copies to members of the Legislative Council and the House of liepresentatives.

This following committee was elected to assist in the campaign against restrictions on AJsatian dogs:—President, Mr. F. G. Baylis; committee, Mesdames E. Davis, A. L. Marfurt, A. M. Scott, D. Dawson and A. Keiidt; Messrs. It. N. Baylis, H. Wilkins, E. J. Hollanby, 11. Derbyshire, E. V. Nelson, J. C. Ross and C. Bailey; secretary, Mr. Leeb.