Pit bulls: Miami-Dade County voters uphold ban on breed

 MIAMI (AP) -- A woman mauled as a child by a pit bull says she's relieved that Miami-Dade County voters decided to keep banning the dogs.

   Melissa Moreira's injuries prompted the ban in 1989. She said Wednesday that the ban protects people from aggressive dogs.

   On Tuesday, 63 percent of voters chose to keep the ban.

   The Miami Coalition Against Breed Specific Legislation says the ban is too costly and vague. Director Dahlia Canes says the ballot question was confusing. The group will pursue legislative efforts against the ban.

   The wife of Miami Marlins pitcher Mark Buehrle also criticized the ban. Jamie Buehrle says education about pit bull breeds and responsible pet ownership must continue.

   The county's animal services director says his agency will continue trying to get pit bulls adopted outside Miami-Dade.