Thesis
Exploring relationships between breed bans and socioeconomic factors: A case study examining Municipal Code 6.18 on pitbull dogs in Yakima, WA
Washington State University
Master of Public Affairs (MPA), Washington State University
2019
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/107138
Abstract
Dogs have been popular companions since the 19th century, and their purpose has changed over time. The prevalence of resources such as behavior therapy, advanced nutrition, and specialized veterinary services show that the majority of 21st century dogs are treated like family members. However, since the 1980's, pitbull type dogs have been given negative media attention, heightening public fear. This fear has led to legislation against the pitbull, barring populations in certain areas from owning them through municipal ordinances. The legislation should be studied because it is possible that they may intentionally target certain human populations based on fears that certain populations are more likely to use pitbulls for fighting. Public fear of has led to negative perceptions against certain groups in other case studies as well. Examples include the perception of those living under federal poverty guidelines, the perception of black individuals in America, and the perception of Mexican migrant workers in Yakima, Washington. This research questions whether breed specific legislation is related to these cases. This case study examines Yakima, WA's Municipal Code 6.18, a thirty-year pitbull ban which was lifted on August 21st, 2018. The purpose of this work is to assess factors that contributed to the ban's prolongation. This study evaluates the relationship between characteristics of Yakima's population, and the long-standing breed ban. A qualitative case study method is used to examine this issue through a variety of sources, allowing a comprehensive review of issues related to the breed ban in Yakima. Preliminary sources include prior studies done on similarly disadvantaged individuals, and studies on how the government may have perpetuated these inequalities. Data collected during the study includes news reports in Yakima, crime rates in Yakima, and city council minutes from before the ban until its end. This research asks if breed-specific legislation in Yakima was associated with the increased number of Mexican migrant workers in the area.
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Details
- Title
- Exploring relationships between breed bans and socioeconomic factors
- Creators
- Radhika Ashley Raj
- Contributors
- Laurie A. Drapela (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Politics, Philosophy and Public Affairs, School of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Public Affairs (MPA), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; [Pullman, Washington] :
- Identifiers
- 99900525016301842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis