Anyone who has watched the news knows that Pit Bull attacks make for big stories in the media. Never mind that attacks by other breeds happen all over the country – they just don’t get picked up because they aren’t sensational enough. Read here about multiple instances in which the media took no interest in a mauling or death by dog attack because the dogs were not Pit Bulls.
A study by the National Canine Research Council proved this point in its four-day look at dog bites in the media. Three fatal attacks by three different non-Pit Bull dogs were each mentioned in local papers just one or two times. During the same period, one Pit Bull attack that was not fatal received coverage more than 230 times in not only national and international papers but on major networks like MSNBC, FOX, and CNN.
Pit Bulls and BSL
Part of the mass hysteria about this breed results from the confusion over what a Pit Bull actually is. These days the term Pit Bull may refer to the standard purebred American Pit Bull Terrier, or it may reference a number of breeds which – thanks to Breed Specific Legislation – now encompass multiple “bully breeds”, like Boxers, and the American Staffordshire Terrier. BSL has been adopted by upwards of 700 cities in the United States. This legislation effectively bans certain breeds of dogs that are perceived to be particularly dangerous to humans. The problem with this kind of law is that it doesn’t address the real problem – the owners behind the dogs.
Even the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) points out that BSL “raises constitutional and practical issues”, in part because the data is unreliable (made more difficult to ascertain due to the prevalence of mixed breeds) and also because other breeds cause injury and death and irresponsible owners are just as much of a problem as any specific breed of dog, if not more so.
Misconceptions about Pit Bulls
Over the years of repeated inundation by the media reinforcing the idea that Pit Bulls are inherently dangerous, misconceptions about these dogs have spread. Although, ironically, the publicity has also brought about increased awareness of these misconceptions and a willingness on the part of animal lovers to learn more and try to save these sweet creatures. Let’s take a look at some of the commonly accepted generalizations that have no basis in truth:
- Pit Bulls are inherently aggressive toward humans: ironically, Pits’ history as fighting dogs speaks strongly to their ability to control themselves with humans. Because they had to “turn off” their aggressiveness when their owners would enter the ring, they were bred to be very loyal. The fact is that any breed of dog can attack if raised improperly or provoked.
- A Pit Bull with a history of aggression cannot be saved: this is easy to disprove – Michael Vicks had 50 dogs confiscated from his dog fighting operation. 49 of these dogs were not just saved but rehabilitated!
- Pit Bulls have a “lock jaw”: this breed’s jaw is the same as any other breed’s – it doesn’t “lock”. It is exceptionally strong, which is probably the source of this myth. That’s just one reason Pits need responsible, loving owners who will train and treat their dog with care.
- Pits have a vicious temperament: what would you think of that myth if you knew that Pit Bulls score lower in aggression than Beagles and Collies on the American Temperament Testing Society’s scale?
The important takeaway here is that any dog can be a great, loving, loyal dog if raised in the right kind of environment. Pit Bull is just a name. Pits can be sweet, lovable, amazing pets if cared for responsibly.
It’s common knowledge that American animal shelters are overflowing with animals and that many of them end up euthanized (31% of dogs and 41% of cats who enter shelters never make it out alive). But there are some things you may not know about these facilities that care for and rehome cats, dogs, and other animals:
Your pet’s vet is second only to you in terms of importance in its life. You not only want to find one who is a skilled animal medical expert, but is also good with people and will work as a team with you in order to devise the best possible health solutions for your beloved furry friend.
Betty White
Ke$ha
Sarah McLachlan
Bob Barker
Howard and Beth Stern
Simon Cowell
There’s no doubt about it – puffy cuties like the Collie, Eskimo, and adorable little Pekingese draw attention and make you want to scoop up their snuggly little bodies and take them home. But if you don’t have the time to devote to the extensive dog grooming that breeds like these require, you might end up with a case of long-haired dog buyer’s remorse.
Jameson was picked up as a stray by animal control over 5 years ago. He spent 3 years in the 
For many trips, like family vacations to a hotel or resort, it’s best to leave your best friend at home, where he can be watched over by a trusted friend or family member or in a safe boarding facility. There are times though – say a camping trip – when you’re going to want to bring your pet along for the ride. Dogs generally travel much better than cats, so unless you’re moving you should probably leave your feline companion at home.