Owning a pit bull in Florida, a strict liability state, requires extra care. This comprehensive guide by a local attorney and pit bull owner provides detailed advice on training, insurance, legal protection, and responsible ownership.
Kara Rogers, Esq., Local Attorney
Hi, I’m Kara Rogers, a Cape Coral resident, attorney, and the proud owner of two American Pit Bull/Staffordshire Terrier mixes named Zack and Zeke. Our journey into pit bull ownership was unexpected but incredibly rewarding. These lovable, energetic pups have brought immense joy to our family, but they’ve also taught me valuable lessons about the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with owning this often-misunderstood breed, especially in a strict liability state like Florida.
My Unexpected Pit Bull Journey
Our pit bull adventure began after Hurricane Ian devastated our community in 2022. After weathering the storm, we heard about the copious numbers of displaced pets. Hoping to help, we applied to become foster pet-parents, only to have our application lost in the chaos. Our first foster wouldn’t happen until the spring of 2023, when we took in a litter of kittens. To say it was disastrous would be an understatement. We were told that the kittens had a little bit of diarrhea and were sent home with some probiotics. It turned out to be a deadly case of feline panleukopenia, and we watched the kittens slowly pass away one-by-one until the shelter finally took the remaining kittens and euthanized them. I cried for days afterwards. We didn’t consider fostering again until months later, when we opened our home to foster two adorable, four-week-old puppies from Gulf Coast Humane Society, not knowing they were pit bull mixes. A few weeks later, these two little bundles of energy, Zack and Zeke, had stolen our hearts and become permanent members of our family.
As a new pit bull owner, I quickly realized that responsible ownership required more than just love and affection. I had to educate myself on the specific legal and social challenges faced by bully-breed owners in Florida. Even though Florida recently took steps to prevent breed-specific bans by public housing authorities or local governments, outdated stigmas and insurance limitations still pose obstacles for bully-breed owners like myself.
Zeke (top) and Zack (bottom) at approximately four weeks old.
Navigating the Challenges of Pit Bull Ownership in Florida
Professional Dog Training is Essential:
While Zack and Zeke are the sweetest, most affectionate dogs I know, I understand that not everyone shares that perspective. The negative stereotypes surrounding pit bulls make it crucial to invest in comprehensive training from a young age. We chose to work with Kiki Logsdon at Lord of the Leash Pet Solutions, and her training methods have been instrumental in shaping Zack and Zeke into well-behaved, confident dogs.
When choosing a trainer, make sure to find someone whose methodologies align with your principals as a pet parent, and ensure that they have adequate training and experience. Don’t be afraid to course-correct if you find that the trainer you started with isn’t a good fit for you or your pet. We started Zack and Zeke in a group class with a trainer who was well qualified, but the trainer’s methodology didn’t work for us or for Zack and Zeke. We started to see Zack and Zeke acting out in class and displaying behaviors that we didn’t want to encourage. We made a difficult call to trust our gut and change trainers, and found Lord of the Leash Pet Solutions. Zack and Zeke have been on a path to success ever since. Look for private lessons tailored to your dog’s specific needs where financially feasible. If that is outside of your budget, look for group classes that offer controlled socialization opportunities. Remember, investing in training now can save you from heartache and legal trouble later.
Secure Comprehensive Insurance Coverage:
Many homeowners’ insurance policies in Florida exclude or severely limit coverage for pit bulls and other breeds considered “aggressive.” Don’t be caught off guard! Discuss your options with your insurance agent and explore supplemental liability insurance specifically for dog bites or an umbrella policy that provides broader coverage. This extra layer of protection can offer peace of mind and financial security in case of an unforeseen incident.
Consult with an Experienced Attorney:
As a lawyer, I cannot overstate the importance of seeking legal counsel early in your pit bull ownership journey. An attorney can guide you through the complexities of Florida’s strict liability laws and help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a dog owner. They can also offer proactive advice on preventative measures, such as posting warning signs on your property, understanding local ordinances, and reviewing homeowner association or condo association bylaws before you purchase or move.
Prioritize Socialization from Day One:
Socialization is a lifelong process that starts from the moment you bring your pit bull home. Exposing them to a variety of people, dogs, and environments in a positive and controlled manner helps them develop confidence, learn appropriate social skills, and become well-adjusted members of society. Consider enrolling in puppy socialization classes, arranging playdates with other friendly dogs, and taking your dog on outings to parks, pet-friendly stores, and other public places.
Zack (left) and Zeke (right) with the author and her husband, Justin Rogers.
Build a Strong Support Network:
Connecting with other bully-breed owners in your community can be incredibly empowering and enriching. You can share experiences, exchange valuable information and resources, and offer each other support during challenging times. Consider joining local breed-specific groups, attending events organized by shelters or rescue organizations, and participating in online forums or social media groups dedicated to pit bull advocacy.
Last Thoughts:
Owning a pit bull in a strict liability state like Florida requires extra diligence and responsibility. But with the right knowledge, resources, and commitment, you can overcome the challenges and enjoy a fulfilling life with your beloved bully-breed. By prioritizing training, insurance, legal preparedness, socialization, and community building, you’re not only protecting yourself but also advocating for responsible pit bull ownership and changing the negative narrative surrounding this incredible breed