The Truth about Pit Bulls

Wednesday, October 17, 2012 - 4:00pm
Happy Pit Bull

“Pit Bull.” There is no other breed of dog—or arguably, any other animal at all—whose mere mention can elicit such strong opinions. Try a word-associate game with your friends: Ask them what they think of when you say “Pit Bull.” Chances are that by the numbers, their responses will be more negative than positive. And it’s no wonder: No other type of dog is as widely banned from housing, legislated against, or incorrectly vilified by the media.

How did we get here?
Pit Bulls were once widely considered ideal family pets—affectionate, loyal and gentle with children. But in recent years, these dogs have suffered tremendously from a combination of overbreeding, bad publicity and irresponsible owners. In reality, the overwhelming majority of Pits and Pit mixes are sweet goofballs who have gotten a very bad rap.

Learn the truth.
National Pit Bull Awareness Day, on October 27, is a day of appreciation and education designed to change perceptions and stereotypes about Pit Bulls and their responsible owners. Please take a moment to learn the truth about these wonderful dogs and consider rescuing one of them from a shelter.

Are you a proud Pit Bull parent? Please participate in National Pit Bull Awareness Day, and help us dispel the myths about these dogs by leaving a comment below about your wonderful pooch.

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Comments

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 21:10 — Kimberly (Visitor)
Well said Judith!!! Bravo!!!

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 21:09 — Kimberly (Visitor)
Have we forgotten that dog on dog attacks are a part of nature? What did those smaller dogs do to provoke the "attack"? Border Collies for example have a strong prey drive and I've read that they are not reccommended for families with small children. Do I believe that? Sure, to a certain extent. But are ALL Border Collies the same? NO and neither are pitbulls. If you have such an uneducated opinion of this beautiful breed you should do some research. Reach out to a rescue group and meet a loveable pittie!!

Sat, 10/20/2012 - 11:39 — Kristal (Visitor)
You have to take into consideration that small dogs look like prey. A lot of times they act like prey too. What you call "unprovoked" may not have been at all. But on the same hand, these dogs were most likely not being handled the way the should have been with their owners. My dog would NEVER do something like that at all. I have complete control of her (and she's deaf). Not all pits and mixes are bad. It's just a small number that get all the attention while the thousands of pits with good owners get no positive attention at all. You can't blame a breed for owner negligence.

Sat, 10/20/2012 - 09:04 — Mango (Visitor)
Thanks for sharing that. I have often heard that Pitt Bulls can't be integrated with cats because they would automatically have the instinct to kill them. I have an English Bulldog and he loves cats. He was raised with cats so maybe I can get a Pitt Bull pup and raise him/her with my cats and it would be fine.

Sat, 10/20/2012 - 11:46 — Kristal (Visitor)
It can be quite a bit easier if you get a puppy and raise it with cats already in the home. It's a little more difficult when you have an adult dog that has never been around cats and try to bring it in the home with your cats. It takes time, hard work and dedication to getting them accustomed to each other. The pay off is well worth it though. Lots of praise at the right times and also treats.

Sat, 10/20/2012 - 19:39 — Everbound Venvel (Visitor)
My pit, Zoe, flea nibble-kisses too! Not just people, either...She loves to "groom" her bed and blankets. She never destroys them, just "fluffs them up".

Sun, 10/21/2012 - 14:01 — Gail Robinson (Visitor)
When ever I see a Pit Bull I ask the owner two questions. 1-may I touch him and 2- Did you know that in the 1930's the Pit Bulls were called the "Nanny Dog" because when a new baby was on the way the parents would look for a Pit Bull for the baby. That dog would smother that baby with love and devotion and protect him with his life!!! I agree Pits have gotten a raw deal. By the way very few people know the "Nanny dog" reputation.

Sun, 10/21/2012 - 14:01 — Gail Robinson (Visitor)
When ever I see a Pit Bull I ask the owner two questions. 1-may I touch him and 2- Did you know that in the 1930's the Pit Bulls were called the "Nanny Dog" because when a new baby was on the way the parents would look for a Pit Bull for the baby. That dog would smother that baby with love and devotion and protect him with his life!!! I agree Pits have gotten a raw deal. By the way very few people know the "Nanny dog" reputation.

Mon, 10/22/2012 - 10:20 — jackie (Visitor)
i have a 4 and half year old am pitbull terrier, his name is bruno. we is amazing animal. we have him since he's 3 months old. when my husband first came home with him i cried for 2 weeks because i was so afraid of what he was going to turn out to be, because of all the things i heard of them. we'll he is the runt f the litter of 18 puppies. during the next few weeks i got to see that he was just like any other puppy, i interacted him with my nieces and nephews and my 3 cats i had at home, he turned out to be the most loving and affectionate dog, loves all animals and love people especially children. i am so glad that we raised him the way we did. i adore my boy bruno. he's my life and i wouldnt trade him for anything in the world. people need to get educated on the american pitbulls. they can be so loving and caring animals. i would take in 100 of them if i could. he travels with us all over. he loves the car, and it is so amazing how he justs sits in the back of the car looking out the window and doesnt say a word, but wag his tail with excitement. everyone that he meets wants to pet him, he just sits and lets them, they cant believe how beautiful he is and how gentle and good he is. people need to understand they need chances too. if you are an animal lover and you can give them all the love that you would give to any other breed, you'll make the best choice ever. i know i did and i would do it again.

Tue, 10/23/2012 - 10:03 — Vickie Miller (Visitor)
My husband rescued a Pit, he is the sweetest, most gentle dog i have ever met...other than the rottie i use to have....yes he is a goofball, But protective.He opens up my closet door and sleeps on the blankets i have lying on the floor.... and we have a cat that lives out doors (her choice) he just loves her to death he is well trained. Iam truely blessed to have my Buddy in my life.

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 17:39 — Jody (Visitor)
I rescued Sydnee March 17, 2006 from a local "kill shelter." I was there to pull 2 other pooches that I knew I could find homes for once I took them to the vet and had whatever medical attention they needed taken care of. Well, I saw Sydnee crouching in the corner of the kennel, her coat was dull, she was so depressed, scared and underweight so I grabbed her along with the other 2 dogs and off we went to the vet. She was so excited she practically flew into my SUV. Long story short, I discovered the first week that Sydnee had a raging yeast infection throughout her entire body which took me 9 months to cure using holistic methods, she also had a tongue that was too long for her mouth so it rolled up, she couldn't eat kibble easily so I every meal was freshly prepared with brown rice and chicken and veggies, she packed on the weight and her coat was so shiny and beautiful. And of course she loved her treats! Sydnee did not like a lot activity or noise around her so I kept my home quiet, it took her 30 days before she felt comfortable being in the house so I know she was never allowed in a house before she came to me, cats made her terribly nervous but she finally gave in because my cats loved her and liked to curl up with her. I had the pleasure of having Sydnee in my life for 5 years before she passed away from congestive heart failure. Once she knew she was safe and loved which took about 30 days, she showed me every day with a big silly smile and a "high five" how happy she was to be in a home that showed her love 24/7. She was a very, very, very happy girl and she loved people and they all loved her. Everyone would commend on how "sweet" she was. She and my Black Lab/Chow mix, Lexi, were inseparabale, they did everything together and we both miss our Sydnee girl very much. She brought so much joy and love into my house. She isn't the first dog I have ever rescued and won't be the last. I recommend a bully breed to anyone, they are so loving, gentle and good natured. R.I.P. my little girl :-)

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:25 — Paula (Visitor)
What a special person you are to love your sweet Sydnee like you did. I, too, have a beautiful pit bull named Lady. She is as loving and sweet as any dog can get. I am so glad you gave Sydnee a good, loving home for the rest of her days. Makes me proud!

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:25 — Erica Wright (Visitor)
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful story and for the effort and love you put into Sydnee.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:41 — joanne denison (Visitor)
Thank you for sharing your success story. I agree that dogs from the shelter or those abandoned often make the most wonderful of pets! All of my pets were from a shelter over my long years of owning pets. But please remind people that carbs and sugars are NOT species appropriate. As a result, your pet has no - carbases to break down carbs and sugars. This means they lie in the digestive track like a bowling ball. In fact, your rice was likely causing the yeast infection and/or aggravating it. Human digestive systems are similar to your pets in that we have one stomach, we don't easily metabolize sugars and carbs (note the high rate of obesity and diabetes), and we have a very low pH in our stomachs very suited to digesting meat rather than vegatation. So please remember to keep it light on the carbs. Carbs and sugars are not treats for dogs--fresh organic meats and cheeses, fermented dairy, raw dairy, etc. is just fine. The good thing about your dog and cat is they can and will even desire meats you and I can't eat because they are adapted to eating rotted stuff. I can't tell you how many times my dogs have brought home some long dead critter, gulped it down happily and they never get sick. So thanks for sharing, and also proving to keep those carbs and veggies out of our pet's stomachs--except rabbits and rodents.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 11:15 — Kristin Beatty-... (Visitor)
I disagree w/your response to the food fed to Sydnee. I have 2 Pibble mixes & foster bully breeds. In addition, I have a 9yr old Italian Greyhound. My iggy has food allergies & has been on a specialized diet her entire life. She has never been sick, has all of her teeth & has maintained the same weight all of her adult life. All of this is due to, among other things, a diet of healthy, natural, human grade foods. While it is true that animals may have food allergies or sensitivities, it is not true that they are unable to process the carbs, sugars, etc that you mention. My American Bulldog APBT mix is on a special diet due to illness as a baby(he is now 14mo). He eats the same way way the other dogs do, w/adjustments made for individual needs. My staffy has no issues, he could probably eat anything, however he eats as they all do. My fosters eat a diet specific to their age, needs, etc. I am very careful and only feed food that is healthy & healthful.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 11:54 — Cheryl (Visitor)
I've had great results feeding my dogs a varied diet. Dogs are omnivores rather than carnivores. Just look at their teeth, which are very different from a cat's. Some dogs, like some people, can't tolerate particular grains, but most dogs have no problem digesting rice. Vegetables are a good addition to a canine diet. Examine coyote or fox scat and you'll see they eat everything from manzanita berries and blackberries to mice to grass. Wolves will eat green stomach contents when they take down prey because the grass and herbs provide important nutrients. The "dog as strict carnivore" myth is just that -- a myth. I give my dog a human-grade fish and sweet potato diet, supplemented by vegetables. Common sense has a lot to do with it. A small piece of carrot is a great treat, but three or four carrots a day will provide too much sugar. In reading Sydney's story, it's clear she had the yeast infection when she first came from the shelter. It cleared up with the loving care and good diet she got from her person.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 11:51 — jessica L. S. (Visitor)
I respectfully disagree with your "diagnosis" of no brown rice or veggies for dogs. EVERY dog is different and therefore each needs a different diet. there are many dogs of varying breeds that can eat brown rice and veggies regularly and do fine. i seriously doubt the person that adopted Sydnee was the cause of the yeast infection since the dog ALREADY HAD THE INFECTION before the person adopted her. my 2 dogs (boxer mix and beagle mix) get brown rice and veggies often and they have no infections or "carbases" issues. please do your research and make sure you indicate that you are an expert on all things dog diet related before you berate someone for their choice in foods for their pets.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 11:59 — Madison (Visitor)
Well, I can tell you that MANY vets would disagree with your analysis on how carbs and veggies are bad for dogs. Mostly because it is simply untrue. When my dog gets sick from his medication, my vet has told me to switch his normal food to plain white rice and chicken and then slowly add his normal food back it. It's called a bland diet, and it calms an upset stomach. Also, when my baby girl had packed on a few too many pounds (thanks to my ex), I asked if there was anything I could do in addition to more exercise, and the vet told me carrots instead of dog cookies/biscuits for treats. Carrots are great for dogs. So...I'm not sure where you're getting your information, but it would probably be best for you to not pass along that these clean foods, that ARE actually good for you dog, are bad for them. Here is the article that my vet gave me when I asked about other veggies that were safe for my dog. http://www.ehow.com/list_7156880_safe-fruits-veggies-dogs.html

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:53 — Kim Vella (Visitor)
What a wonderful story. Through my tears, I am writing this. I went down to my local shelter today to bring some towels and rugs. While I was there I asked if I could volunteer there. The last time I went there someone else was in charge and they said I couldn't because of insurance. Well I took Willow (a pit bull) for a walk or rather she walked me. What a love!!!!! It was so said because every available cage had a Pit Bull in it. There must have been at least a dozen. We actually had to put Willow in a crate because they are over-crowded. j Jessica said that she received a call from the office asking how many dogs she had. She said this meant one was going to be put down. My heart is breaking. One dog has been there since March of 2011 but since there is no more room, one has to go. I'm going to try and call some shelters in my area and see if they can take one. If you hear of anyone in need of some big wet kisses, please have them call the Union Township Animal Shelter in Union, NJ. You can like them on Facebook and we can spread the word faster. God bless all who give these dogs a home instead of buying puppies from stores.

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 17:49 — Ruby (Visitor)
My red and white pit and pit mix are angels. The cats sleep on top of them! They might be a danger to frogs or rabbits if they could catch them, which they can't. They can live in an apartment because they almost never bark. The purebred boy would rather die than be naughty. It humiliates him to displease me. Our girl is rather short and fat (1/4 beagle is our current theory) and she is a little naughty sometimes! She was rescued at 11 months, having had a litter already, from a horrible rural kill shelter. Our boy was rescued at 3 years old from the city pound. It isn't how you raise them, because we didn't! It's how they are!

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 11:29 — Andi (Visitor)
You're right! They are just like that! "Treat others as you wish to be treated" goes a long way no matter if you're a dog or a human!

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 18:09 — Eva (Visitor)
Our Pitty is a very smart goofy guy. We adopted him 2 years ago from our local humane society. He is supper smart and learns new tricks very fast as long as you have food in your hand. He plays with our kitty at home and loves car rides. He is sometimes really naughty and for 2 years, he chewed 3 pairs of my shoes and 3 remote controls. His favorite food is banana and will do anything to get the sweet treat. He doesn't have any mean bone in his body. He's our baby and he is a pit bull!

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:32 — Jacqueline (Visitor)
People are so wrong about Pitts...I think they're wonderful and while they (stupidly) don't allowed them where I live (in an apt.development)...If I had my own home, I'd adopt a Pitt puppy... A friend of mine had a really sweet almost all while Pitt...Ice was a wonderful dog...Unfortunately she is gone now, but she was a love.. People are totally mis-educated because of the media etc... Enjoy your little angel... Jacquie

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 11:18 — Ellie (Visitor)
Media is the answer Jacquie. Distinguished Harvard professor Steven Pinker has written and talked extensively about how, despite the fact we live in the safest time in history (by every single measure), people believe that the world is becoming an increasingly unsafe and dangerous place. In Communication studies, we know that this perception is in part caused by media coverage, - our predecessors weren’t constantly bombarded by murder and mayhem news, so they feared the world less. The pitbull issue is just one such exaple – the media like to cover stories that make us shudder, fear and have a pre-existing narrative we can cling to. Vicious pit bull attack is such a narrative, while vicious lab attack is not, making the pit bull story the editorial choice. The problem is that this media-bred fear feeds the pit bull problem - for every individual that is too scared to walk past one, it encourages the drug dealer to chain one out in front of their yard to guard their cocaine. The more we malign these dogs, the greater the chances they end up in the wrong homes, fill shelters and die in them. If you really want to do something about the pitbull problem in America, adopt one.

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 18:32 — Amanda (Visitor)
I am the proud parent of 2 wonderful pitbulls. I have my baby Kabela she is a 7 year old red american gatormouth pit we rescued her off the side of the road in Dallas 4 yrs ago she is so sweet and playful. She had been abused and bred many times she was very malnourished and heartworm positive. Now she is healthy and beautiful she spends her days with her sisters sun bathing playing ball running around and loves her walks. She is a snuggler and loves to sleep between me and my husband and loves all people. I also have my baby Kahlua she is a 5 year old black and white american staffordshire/bull terrier mix she is a charecter lots of personality. We got her from a litter she was the last one that nobody wanted because she was the runt and not a purebred she looks like the Target dog half black and white face with the black ring around the eye so adorable and unique. She loves to play ball swim in her pool run around with her sisters and loves her walks. She is our shadow and everywhere we are loves to snuggle and sleep with us as well loves all people. They are the best dogs and the most loving affectionate breed they are our protectors great guard dogs only when necessary. I am positive we will have many more to come and me and my husband plan to have our own pitbull sanctuary when we get property with acreage later on so we can give all the unwanted and unfortunate ones that need love and nuturing a home:)

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 19:11 — Susana. Jennings (Visitor)
I am the proud owner of wonderful pity. This is my second one, my first one Duke passed away at 15 years old. He was my baby. Pit bulls love to be cuddle they are very loyal and very funny. I rescued my second one his name is Mako, he came with that name, even though he had a missarable life he kept his spirit . He is so loving. It brakes my heart to see how much people abuse this breed. Love conquer everything and everyone. We humans need the nurturing and love to grow up and become decent humans been there is not difference among animals.

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 19:11 — Susana. Jennings (Visitor)
I am the proud owner of wonderful pity. This is my second one, my first one Duke passed away at 15 years old. He was my baby. Pit bulls love to be cuddle they are very loyal and very funny. I rescued my second one his name is Mako, he came with that name, even though he had a missarable life he kept his spirit . He is so loving. It brakes my heart to see how much people abuse this breed. Love conquer everything and everyone. We humans need the nurturing and love to grow up and become decent humans been there is not difference among animals.

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 22:04 — m. koster (Visitor)
I've always been a fan of bully breeds, but 8 weeks ago I took in my first Pit as a foster... and what a treat! He is a total marshmallow! He loves to play, sleep on his back, and is so curious about everything! He loves to play with and in water. He is great with people and dogs, even in large crowds. He has a wonderfully generous personality, and is always a clown! He and my Mastiff mix are Gilligan and The Skipper!!! Love the bully breeds... wouldn't be without them!

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 22:37 — Doyle Hubbs (Visitor)
I rescued a female Pitbull about 4 years ago. I now consider her my best friend. She will sit on my couch next to my chair and watch television with me. Also she sits in the passenger seat of my car while I drive and appears to be a small human, she will reach over with her paw and hold my hand. She is a amazing animal that I have grown to love and respect. She is also a big show off who loves to entertain.

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 23:24 — Ari Hlawek (Visitor)
I have a beautiful 5-year-old brindle Pit Bull Terrier named Trina. I love my baby more than anything and have such a sweet bond with her; she's my family. She came into my life after I rescued her when she was 1 1/2, and it's almost like she's aware that I saved her. Trina is the sweetest, smartest girl ever. She loves other dogs, can't get enough of people, and could just go swimming for days. Really quick learner, gentle with kids, I could go on forever. It makes me sick to think of how horribly mistreated and misunderstood these innocent creatures are. :( They don't want to fight, and I seriously doubt they have one mean bone in their bodies. After all, Trina lived the first 1 1/2 of her life with neglectful crackheads that kept her chained up in the backyard, barely interacted with her, and when they did, it was rarely pleasant. But she still turned out like a completely normal dog. All these guys want is a little love. And maybe a meaty bone or two.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:35 — Jacqueline (Visitor)
Good for you...I love Pitts...They ARE wonderful dogs...Also very smart...Not allowed one here in my apt. community...Pitts are so misunderstood.... I have two small dogs, A Bichon Frise and a rescued Lab/Feist mix... I have had dogs since born...I adore ALL DOGS... If I had my own home, you can bet there'd be a pitt bull..Most likely female.... Enjoy your 4-legged love.... Jacquie

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 23:51 — Erik (Visitor)
My girls names are Moku and Molly. Moku is a Staffy and Molly is a Pit Bull/American Bulldog mix. Both are the sweetest dogs ever! I don't know what I would do without them. Moku is my little pig, no really she snorts all the time! And Molly, so gentle and loving, want to kiss her all day long! Get a bully if you dont have one already, you won't regret it!

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 05:16 — Stephenie Cantrel (Visitor)
I've raised two Pitts Father & Son. When we 1st got Zeus, we had a 1 yr Shepard, Grizz, I didn't want a Pitt Bull. My son kept begging to have 1 of the puppies that our neighbor Needed to find homes for. Well needless to say, I gave in. Zeus, no longer with us, we had to put down just shy of 15 yrs old, Cancer of the spline spreading to his lungs. He was a dark chocolate Brindle with a white tuxedo. Told my son he would have to train him, yeah okay. Like I said I raised 2 Pitts. Zeus was a very loving guy, very graceful, obstinate, when he wanted to be, happy little lap dog. loved people an other animals. when my son, Jeff, got home from work and sat down in the recliner, he was right there next to him, in the chair or on his lap. I hardly every called him Zeus, it was either Rooney, Ruby or Boob. he was a very good old boy. We all miss him dearly. We breed Zeus with a friend's Red Nose, Penny, Out of that Litter I chose my pick, a beautiful boy Brindle. We never named our boys till we got to know their personality. Well, this one we named Taz, Little Devil. he lived up to it to, more like his Mother, he was a ramie little hellion. he's now 11 yrs old, is and always was my boy. He has other names that I call him also, Tazzer Dazzer, BaBa, Spazzer Cadazzer, Boo Boo. He's calmed with age. He's my shadow, always was. They both love going bye bye, walks and running around the yard. Zeus would always spin in a circle when he got excited. Tazzers used to run figure 8's in the yard and house, From the kitchen thru the middle room into the front room, jump on the love seat, banking off the back and kept going round & round. He loves to watch Animal Planet, he has this thing he does, unless he's sitting with or on me or my son, he goes to get a bite of food then goes to sit in front of the TV and eats it, from the TV to his dish and back again. It's funny to watch him. He's very personable, when sitting with us he talks to us, not barking but little noises and growls. when people first meet him they're thrown of a little, cause when you pet him and then stop, he'll growl at you, telling you, you're not done yet, pet me some more. he loves to sleep in bed with me and when my Man is here, he lays between us on his back face to face with us and talk with us. He's something, this one, doesn't like to be alone. I love My boy, can't imagine being without him. Don't ever wanna. Pitt Bulls are the sweetest, most loving and loyal breed I have ever had the fortune of raising. These animals are here to alert us of someone being there, not to protect and fight our battles. Why would anyone want to hurt physically or mentally such a loving creature. Do onto others as you would have others do onto you......... I look at him and can't help but smile. Wow, oops I could still go on an on.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 11:31 — Irene Antonik (Visitor)
Loved your story but one thing made me sad. It was the part where you bred your dog to a friend's dog. Although you got an amazing pup, having that litter meant that many shelter pups would not be adopted. I have adopted 2 pittie mixes and have had the same experiences you and many others have had. They are the most loving dogs I've ever had. My second, Bellah, was on the short list and pregnant. I flew to the animal shelter and adopted her but they required she be spayed first and the pups were lost. It broke my heart but I realized after looking on all the shelter web sites that they are absolutely full of bully mixes. It is hard enough to get people to look past the stereotypes to get these dogs a home. Many are willing but the apartments they live in will not allow bully breeds. People should absolutely never breed and add more of these little darlings to the shelter populations until there are no bullykids to be had. I know your dogs are receiving the best of care but many others are not. They are dumped in shelters or on the side of the road for many reasons but it often ends up as a death sentence. Please go to a shelter for your next dog. If a friend asks you to adopt a pup, agree only if they agree to have the mom spayed. I have offered to help pay for the procedure in the past. It's the best favor you can do for these breeds.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 05:19 — Stephenie Cantrel (Visitor)
PS Can I post pictures to this?

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:41 — April Zobel (Visitor)
Our sweet pit is Tami and she is a big bundle of puppy love! Her name is short for Tamale as we have a mexican theme going on with the naming of our dogs and cat (Chili, Taco, Jalapeno (Holly for short) and Beans). The chihuahuas definitely run the house and Tami knows her place well. We think she is the most beautiful pit in the world with her black and white coloring and cute black spots on her belly. When she plops down for her belly rubs she looks just like a mini cow! We found Tami on the side of the interstate 2 1/2 years ago and she has been a perfect member of our family since day one. We never even considered not stopping when we saw her on the side of the road and are so thankful every day that she found us.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:47 — Charles E. Padilla (Visitor)
I want the world to know that I, Charles E. Padilla, have three (3) gorgeous and beautiful Pit Bulls. They have NEVER, EVER shown any sign of aggression. I just adopted a new male and my other male and female were "slow" at accepting him, but now, THEY LOVE EACH OTHER. They play together, they sleep with me on my king-sized bed and I have to say "YES, I DO SLEEP WITH PIT BULLS" may favorite breed, but LOVE ALL animals. So, if anyone tells you that Pit Bulls are vicious and/or aggressive, please stand up for this breed because "it is how they are raised and if you show lots of love and affection, they will give it back to you 110%. Thank You.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:48 — Joan Finnen (Visitor)
My husband and I adopted a wonderful Pitbull 2 years ago and she has changed our lives. Since adopting her we have begun to volunteer at the local shelter that she called home. We decided we needed to be part of the solution rather than the problem. We wanted to educate others regarding the myths of this wonderful breed of dog. She is the sweetest and most loving dog we have ever owned. She is very loyal and protective of us to be sure but she also is so friendly with everyone we meet that I am planning on training her to be a therapy dog. I will never own another breed of dog.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:48 — Jim McGovern (Visitor)
I have 3 terriers and love dogs but I am afraid that pit bulls are a dangerous breed and I am very afraid of them . There are several in my neighborhoodf and none of them are friendly dogs

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:58 — Laurel Masengarb (Visitor)
I am sorry to hear of your fear of them. Some owners mistreat their animals and want them mean. It's not the dogs faults...they are abused to be made that way. Don't allow the owners stupidity make you fear the breed. You just need to be careful when you are outside, especially if you are with your dogs. Being weary is good with any breed. As you would with anything powerful and unknown, you don't take it for granted you can handle a situation or that you are fearless but don't let this fear keep you from enjoying the breed. I suggest you find a local accredited breeder and visit them...you might learn to like and trust the Pit Bull. They are very loving and gentle in the right hands. Or you could visit your local shelter...they have tons of nice dogs for you to visit to see that it's not the dogs fault. There are lots of breeds that can be dangerous...this one is just the flavor of the week.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:30 — Erica (Visitor)
Please dont let the bad owners deter you from the breed or cause you to fear these dogs. Talk to a local rescue or shelter, meet some pitts and you just may discover the only danger you are in is being licked to death! People can make any dog bad so look for good people and good dogs.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:34 — Sheryl A Ferguson (Visitor)
I can understand your fear of them - they are big and very strong. I have seen some aggressive pit bulls, HOWEVER, I believe that it's 99.9% in the way they are raised and socialized. If the dogs in your street are running loose, call animal control, because no dog should be running free. I think the other comment is a good one - get to know a few pits owned by responsible owners. They can be the sweetest dogs in the world. Unfortunately, a lot of people own them for the wrong reasons, and those are the ones that can be bad news.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:42 — Brandi (Visitor)
I can understand your concern. Howevr, I must disagree. I rescued my dog 3 years ago this month, and didn't know he was part pit bull. Now, I love telling people that he is. Especially when they meet him and comment about how sweet he is. It truly is how they are raised. There are the rare cases wehre they have been overbred and get a genetic make-up that predisposes them to certain behaviors, but it's rare. My dog is afraid of 2 of the 3 of my boyfriend's cats. The third one is his buddy. Any dog can become aggressive if they aren't properly socialized and raised. There's a mastiff mix in my neighborhood that is obviously not socialized and has charged at my dog more than once. Like it or not, most times humans make dogs behave a certain way, albeit good or bad.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 18:12 — K (Visitor)
I'm sorry that you feel that way, as well. 2 1/2 years ago I may have agreed with you. However, after saving the life a beautiful, red, licky-faced pup, my entire mindset has changed. In order to overcome your fear, like others suggested, you need to be open to meeting one. After a few pets, head home and do a little NON-BIASED research about these dogs. Did you know that pit bull is NOT a breed? It's actually an umbrella term for a few short haired breeds of dogs. Many people cannot even identify a true American Pit Bull Terrier. I bet there will be plenty of other interesting facts that you will be surprised to hear. You certainly do not have to run out to the shelter to adopt one, but please be knowledgeable before passing judgement. Your tolerance and understanding will be greatly appreciated by those of us that fight for these dogs (yes, just dogs) everyday.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:48 — Laurel Masengarb (Visitor)
I have had five Pit Bulls and each one has been so sweet, it hurts when I hear press claim they are vicious and should not be allowed. The owners are the problem, not the breed. They are very good with kids and others when properly trained and socialized. My current dog is lots of fun and a great companion for me and my daughter. Wish I had proper space to have several more. The shelters are full of wonderful Pit Bull needing a home. Four of my five have been recused dogs and they show their love unconditionally for you giving them a good home.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:48 — Googenheim (Visitor)
I love dogs.. all animals in fact. But Pit Bulls are dangerous animals. They have shown it time and time again. You people are delusional. They are all prone to snap at any given moment. How many people and children must be injured or die before you wake up? These animals should be put down or at least regulated like a wild animal.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:52 — Ginny (Visitor)
No, you must be the delusional one. Have you ever owned a Pit? Any dog for that matter? Until you have owned one or any dog? Are you just listening to the other ignorant people and media who have given these dogs a bad name? The only reason these dogs, ANY DOGS, attack is because they have been trained to do so or they have been in a bad situation with a person who does not know how to treat an animal. Never, ever has my pit or anyone that I know that owns one, had an issue. Please do some research and quit stereotyping these dogs as killers.

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 09:56 — Todd (Visitor)
They are killers! Look at the facts you moron

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:46 — NS (Visitor)
Here are ACTUAL facts. Read them and weep. http://stopbsl.org/fortherecord/myths/

Fri, 10/19/2012 - 10:46 — Brandi (Visitor)
Please, I invite you to look at the facts. And you will see that, respectfully, you are wrong. I've had more German Shepherds, Chihuahuas, and other breeds charge at my dog (a pit mix), with teeth showing than you can imagine. And what does my dog do....he cowers behind me. Very few pit bulls are aggressive by sheer nature. Do the research, and you will find most of them have been bred and instigated to be this way. Perfect example....the MIcheal Vick dogs. Most of those dogs were tortured, kicked, beaten, force bred, etc. And the majority of them were rehabilitated and are in loving homes. I feel sad for you that you have had such bad experiences with dogs.

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