Pit bull shooting opens debate over dogs

The police shooting of two pit bulls engaged in a staged dogfight last week in Eastport has resulted in renewed discussion of rules governing the potentially dangerous animals.

Although the Annapolis Housing Authority bans big dogs and dangerous animals are closely regulated by the county, the city does not have separate regulations for pit bulls. Alderwoman Cynthia Carter, who has already tried once to tighten the rules, sees the animals as a threat.

"I'm against having them as pets. They aren't pets! They were bred to kill and destroy," said Mrs. Carter, whose former mother-in-law was injured by one of the animals. "They are...