I think people are looking at the wrong end of the leash.

With yet another story, about yet another pit bull attack, there are renewed rumblings about either banning the breed, or requiring special licenses and insurance coverage in order to have one.

I think instead of demonizing the dog we should be going after the owners.

My stomach churned over the story of the Pierce County woman who was mauled in her own home by a pair of pit bulls that had been running loose in her neighborhood.

I cringed at the poor pony that was attacked by pit bulls, and I feel for the woman whose husband was ripped at while trying to keep two pit bulls from killing their dog.

But I think the underlying issue here is not the breed.

It's the irresponsible people who become irresponsible dog owners.

Rather than socially hyperventilating by creating an image of devil dogs, why don't we target the imbeciles who haven't got the God given good sense to own any animal?

How about a $500 fine hanging over their heads?

I bet then they'd be more prone to keeping their dogs from running loose in the neighborhood.

How about we see this problem where it really exists: At the other end of the leash.

---

Have something to say to Ken? E-mail him at kenschram@komo4news.com.

And be sure to join Ken, along with John Carlson, on "The Commentators", which airs every weekday from 9-Noon on AM 570 KVI.

It's a lively exchange of information, insight and perspective with two guys who don't agree on much, but still manage to enjoy each other as they tackle issues of the day. Even better, callers are invited in on the verbal action.