Why Do Pitbulls Have Such a Dangerous Repute?

Pit bull individuals are an intense lot. We have a little bit of a chip on our shoulder as a result of sadly, we all the time need to be prepared for some form of scapegoating—whether or not it is on the canine park, strolling a canine previous a playground, and even studying the nationwide information. If one thing goes fallacious, the pit bull will most likely be blamed.

I’ve all the time cherished canines, however previously, I tended towards the squishy-faced, potato our bodies of pug mixes. It wasn’t till I used to be requested to be an emergency foster for Rocky, a senior pit bull combine who had not too long ago been surrendered in New Orleans, that I had a firsthand expertise with the breed. Word: “pit bull” isn’t actually a breed, it is simply grow to be a catch-all time period for muscular, block-headed canines. Precise pit breeds embody the American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier, and American bully.

Rocky had been surrendered by his earlier proprietor due to restrictions associated to BSL (breed-specific legislation). It is surprisingly frequent in condominium complexes—landlords are likely to ban any type of supposedly harmful breed for insurance coverage causes, which is one motive why so lots of them, like Rocky, find yourself at animal shelters. At nearly 9 years previous, Rocky was going downhill quick within the shelter. Having been yanked out of the one house he’d recognized, he stopped consuming and ignored anybody who got here as much as his kennel. He was additionally heartworm positive.

I agreed to take him sight unseen that day, although I did not also have a canine bowl to my identify. Rocky cried all the best way house in my automobile, then promptly jumped up on my mattress and went to sleep. I used to be so enraptured by his huge head and candy nature that I adopted one other pit bull sort, named Honey, lower than three months later. I used to be hooked.

Strolling round with a pit bull is completely different than strolling with a pug. You get a sure sort of “look,” individuals will cross the road to keep away from you, and even your individual relations could be scared when that huge block head goes in for a kiss.

After seeing so many screaming media headlines about pit bulls attacking youngsters (odd, when chihuahuas have the very best chunk charge of any breed), I made a decision to ask the founding father of the Stand Up for Pits Foundation, Rebecca Corry, how we acquired to this place. America is stuffed with canine lovers, however we’re not all the time educated on the historical past of domesticated canines and the way particular breeds acquired their fame.

Treehugger: Are you able to clarify how “pit bull” will not be an precise breed, however why so many individuals suppose that it’s?

Rebecca Corry: “Pit Bull” is a time period used to explain a sort of canine primarily based solely on look. Whereas there may be the APBT [American Pit Bull Terrier], the vast majority of all canines labeled “pit bulls” are actually mutts. Merely put, they’re DOGS. Plain and easy. Individuals suppose all canines with quick hair and sq. heads are “pit bulls” as a result of they’re uneducated and plenty of sadly refuse to be taught. The media performs an enormous half within the spreading misinformation and mislabelling of canines and it continues to price them their lives. It is embarrassing and shameful at this level. 

There are such a lot of misconceptions and myths about pit bulls. Why do you suppose that’s? Do you suppose it is altering with time?

I feel people like to stay in fear-based ignorance. I want that wasn’t the case however BSL, landlords not permitting pit bull “sort” canines into their buildings, householders not being insured, and so forth., is all proof. I wish to suppose it is altering however so long as the media continues to perpetuate untruths and ridiculous myths it can possible by no means change. Schooling is significant to vary however individuals need to be open to studying.

Why does the media all the time put “pit bull breeds” of their headlines about canine assaults, however hardly ever some other breed is named out?

As a result of they’re [expletive]. It is reckless and harmful and all about clickbait and it must cease. 

What recommendation would you give somebody who’s contemplating adopting a rescue pit bull?

The identical recommendation I’d give somebody adopting any canine. Undertake the canine FOR LIFE. Canine will not be disposable regardless of how arduous issues get. Get your canine spayed or neutered. If you are going to prepare the canine, use ONLY constructive reinforcement trainers and all the time be accountable. And all the time know your canine will likely be blamed and accused earlier than some other canine. So steer clear of canine parks, safe your yard, and if you see the fool on their cellphone strolling in direction of you with their little fluffy canine off-leash, run the opposite manner. 

How can canine lovers be a greater ally to pit bulls?

Be educated and educate others. Work tirelessly at advocating for them to allow them to get an opportunity at life. So many are dying in shelters and being mistreated and deserted. In the event you love canines, combat for these canines any manner you possibly can. They want us and if you get the privilege of realizing and loving one, you’ll understand you want them, too. 

Appropriate individuals once they misspeak concerning the canines. Do not let it slide. Change the narrative.

I am presently studying Bronwen Dickey’s “Pit Bull: The Battle over an American Icon” which is so fascinating! Do you could have any favourite pit bull details or tales to share?

I’ve a million pit bull details and tales to share. Far too many to listing right here so I will merely say, these canines are born inherently good. They’re presents and lights on this world and must be protected and revered. One rescued pit bull-type canine named Angel modified the trajectory of my life, and by doing so, numerous extra have been and will likely be saved. She did all that with out ever saying a phrase. Would not get extra highly effective than that. 

I stated goodbye to my Rocky this week. He was lined in lumps and bumps by the tip, nonetheless tried to eat quick meals wrappers on each stroll, and disliked all different canines till his dying day. I would not have modified him for the world.