With many communities and associations throughout the tri-county area having Pit Bull breed restrictions, this results in hundreds of Pitties, as they are called living their entire lives in and out of shelters.

It is a very sad reality for this beautiful and loyal breed and the idea that a dog’s personality is based entirely on their pedigree is simply false. Dogs are individuals and what most aggressive dogs have in common is being under-socialized, abused, neglected or trained to attack. Have you heard the saying “there is no bad Pit Bulls, only bad owners?” More often than not, this is the case and life in a shelter can make a dog’s behavior worse. That’s why programs like the lunch buddy program are so important.

You may have a Chihuahua who is more aggressive than a Pit Bull but the difference is size and strength. If aggressive, a Pit Bull, or any large aggressive dog for that matter, can be far more dangerous to small children and animals. For this reason it is always wise to try a pet out first and choose one that compliments your household, remembering that it can be a 15-year commitment. 

As for the Pitties, they deserve that chance, and given love and security they can be as lovable as ever too despite their undeserved reputation.