Pit Bull Happenings Rescue - All Forums

Fake grass cost.

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 01:39:57 -0500

I'm making a cage for my guinea pig. I was thinking fake grass on the
bottom and wood around as a cage/playpen. But don't know here to but
fake grass.

Need help with my pit bull

Sun, 12 Aug 2012 19:08:38 -0400

Hi there, I thought maybe you all (fellow pit bull owners or lovers) could help me out, we adopted a pit bull back in Feb. she is a LOVE her name is Bailey, the sweetest thing ever, she was only 10 weeks old when we got her, however, she is very frightened of a lot of things up to and including when she is eating if someone just walks by her she doesn't get aggressive but she jumps like someone just dropped something huge right next her when in truth we just walk by her, she nips at my kids when they let her in and out of the house to go to the bathroom and she gets so frightened somethimes that she actually pees all over the place, she is house trained and only does that when she is scared or when she is REALLY excited, I just feel so bad for this little girl she seems to be afraid of her own shadow, nothing has happened to her while she has been in our care and I am pretty positive that nothing happened to her where we got her from but I can't be 100% sure, just wondering if there is any advice you could give, and like I said she is NOT aggressive at all I just want to help her to not be afraid anymore. I appreciate any advice at all that you could give. My husband keeps saying we are going to have to get her a new home if she doesn't get better because he is afraid she is going to get more aggressive with the kids [/font]and that would kill me. I love her so much and I just want her to be happy which she seems to be most of the time. Just a little bit of guidance here would be appreciated.

Need some advice!

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:25:49 -0400

Hello,
I am new here and in need of some immediate advice. I have a 10 month old Pit and have been having some MAJOR aggression issues pop up.

A little about out story. I have 5 yorkies, which I have had for years, Gem is a 10 pound Yorkie and suffers anxiety issues and has killed 3 other Yorkie over the years. She is older and I although I need to I just cant give her away. Poly (the pit)came into our lives at 5 weeks (ya, some guy was selling em that young! CRAZY right!) in May. She grew up with 3 of the Yorkies and my cat. A few months later my Landlord found out about her and she went to live with my mom, Gem and a 10 yr old Yorkie. 3 weeks ago we all moved in together the day after Poly was spayed.

Since then Gem attacked a Yorkie and Poly jumped in and killer her. Now she is showing food aggression and has been lunging at The Yorkies and growling. She got made when the 10yr old went by her bone, growled and went after another for no reason. I am 6 months pregnant and she is really hard to pull off if something goes wrong. She has been with all of these dogs most of her life and has never been mean or aggressive. I free feed and there is always food out.

I have been in tears for a week and don;t know what to do with her and cant bare the thought of re homing her.

please help!

Greetings from Animal Rescue of Tidewater

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 12:09:26 -0500

Greetings community members! My name is Staci and I am an intern at Animal Rescue of Tidewater (ART) located in Norfolk, VA. I found Pit Bull Happenings while searching for others who love Pit bulls like we do. I am very eager to share/hear what others have done to raise awareness, as well as help and care for their local Pit Bulls. Our Pit Bull Awareness page has a lot of great information on what we are doing to help our local pups!
Our Services

Dogs on Deployment - non-profit helping military members and their "BULLIES"

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 22:38:15 -0500

Calling bully breed lovers, we need your help!

Support your troops by boarding their pets! Dogs on Deployment is a non-profit promoting responsible pet-ownership by helping military members find volunteers willing to board their pets while they're on deployment. Many of our Pets in Need are bully breeds, and we need open-minded volunteers who are willing to board another's bully breed dog while they're deployed. Please help us find loving volunteers for our military members by sharing us with your organization, friends and family and/or on your Facebook page. If you ever receive a pet relinquishment from a military member due to deployment, please send them our way first. I look forward to networking with you.

Sincerely,
Alisa Johnson
President, Dogs on Deployment
http://www.dogsondeployment.com

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PBH Shirts!!

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 11:05:54 -0400

Show your Support for our PBH Rescue Dogs by wearing the PBH Shirt with Pride!!

Shirts are $15 Donations to PBH!

Current Colors Available:

Blue Shirts with white screen
Pink with white screen
Red with white screen
Yellow with black screen
Black with yellow screen

When ordering we'll confirm whether we have your preferred color in your size.

Shipping and Handling will be $5 for up to two shirts Sent by US Priority (flat rate) Mail.
International Orders email Eric@PitBullHappenings.com for pricing on shipping costs.

We Accept Cash, Check/Money Orders (Payable to Pit Bull Happenings, Inc.), Major Credit Cards (V, MC, D, Amex) or PayPal (Donations@PitBullHappenings.com). Note: You do NOT need a PayPal account to place the order. You may use any major credit card going through PayPal

If going through PayPal please include your name, mailing address (No PO Boxes), quantity, size(s), and color(s) of shirt and don't forget the S/H fee.
We are a Florida Nonprofit Corporation! We are a 501©(3) Not-for-Profit Organization.

If mailing a Check or Money Order (Payable to Pit Bull Happenings, Inc.) Please include a note stating name, mailing address, quantity, size(s), and color(s) of shirt. Don't forget to include S/H fee and Mail to:

Pit Bull Happenings, Inc.
P.O. Box 82
Port Richey, FL 34673

ALL Profits made from the Shirts will be NO PROFIT... ALL Monies collected will go towards the general welfare and care for our PBH Rescue Dogs.

Need more details or have any questions please email Eric@PitBullHappenings.com

The Dog (our PBH Mascot Gabriel) will be on the Front of the Shirt while the "Bringing communities together........." is on the back of the shirts!!

We are Accepting Donations and as Appreciation, we'll send you a shirt!!

Please show your Support for the PBH Rescue Dogs by wearing the PBH Shirt that helps us cover the Rescue costs!!

Pit Bull Awareness Fundraiser

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 02:17:02 -0400

Pit Bull Awareness & Fundraiser
Fundraiser Benefits:
Pit Bull Happenings, Inc, Pibbles to the Rescue, & Buster's and Foster's Safe Haven

10 ways to help end dog fighting!!!

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:32:28 -0400

In recent years, Pit Bulls have gained more than just a foothold in public awareness. Unscrupulous breeding and negative media attention have resulted in many apartment complexes, neighborhoods and even counties imposing bans on Pits and Pit mixes, citing them as "inherently dangerous" to the public.

Pit Bulls often attract the worst kind of dog owners—people who are only interested in these dogs for fighting or protection. While Pit Bulls were once considered especially non-aggressive to people, their reputation has changed, thanks to unscrupulous breeders and irresponsible owners. And because the Pit Bull population has increased so rapidly, shelters now struggle to deal with an overflow of image-plagued, hard-to-place dogs.

History of the Breed Pit Bulls are descendants of the original English bull-baiting dog—a dog that was bred to bite and hold bulls, bears and other large animals around the face and head. "Bulldogs" were bred to hang on without releasing their grip, until the animal was exhausted from fighting and from loss of blood. When baiting large animals was banned in the 1800s, people then started to fight their dogs against each other instead.

As the "sport" of dog fighting developed, enthusiasts bred a lighter, more athletic canine. These dogs made their way to North America, the ancestors of today's Pit Bulls. Pit Bulls that were not used for fighting were considered ideal family pets—affectionate, loyal and gentle with children. Serious problems started when these dogs gained the attention of people looking for a macho dog—and to meet their demands, unscrupulous and uncaring breeders are producing puppies that were not only aggressive to other dogs, but also to people.

In the Fighting Ring Although a felony offense in all 50 states, organized dog fights still take place in many parts of the country. In some urban areas especially, dogfighters have formed a strong subculture. Dogs that fight are bred and conditioned to never give up when they are fighting, even if it means that they will be badly hurt or killed. Other animals are victims of dog fights, too—it's not uncommon for trainers to encourage their dogs' aggression by using other dogs and smaller animals such as cats, rabbits and rodents as bait.

While some might typify dog fighting as a symptom of urban decay, not every dogfighter is economically disadvantaged. Participants and promoters come from every community and all backgrounds, with audiences including lawyers, judges and teachers and other upstanding community leaders.

Unfortunately, a new element has been introduced to the world of dog fighting over the past two decades. Fights have become informal street corner and playground activities. Stripped of the rules and formality of the traditional pit fight, these spontaneous events are triggered by insults and turf invasions—or even the simple taunt, "My dog can kill your dog." Many people who participate in these fights lack even a semblance of respect for the animals, often starving and beating them to encourage aggressive behavior.

What You Can Do

Visit the ASPCA Advocacy Center to keep up to date on dog fighting legislation in your state.
Adopt a Pit Bull and let your perfect pooch be an ambassador for the breed!
If your local shelter is facing a Pit Bull dilemma, volunteer to help keep adoptable Pit Bulls and Pit mixes mentally and physically fit by exercising them or taking them to obedience classes. You can also lead a chew-toy drive at work to collect hard rubber playthings to keep them busy, or help create a fund-raiser to support a free sterilization program for Pit Bulls in your local community.
Do your kids have questions about dog fighting? Visit our children's website, ASPCA Kids, for information about dog fighting that's written especially for kids.
Visit Pit Bull Rescue Central for information on adopting and caring for American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers and Pit Bull mixes.

Dog Fighting FAQ Q. When and How Did Dog Fighting Come to America? Although there are historical accounts of dog fights going back to the 1750s, widespread activity emerged after the Civil War, with professional pits proliferating in the 1860s, mainly in the Northeast.

Ironically, it was a common form of entertainment for police officers and firemen�97;the �201c;Police Gazette�201d; served as a major source of information on dog fighting for many years. Although many laws were passed to outlaw the activity, dog fighting continued to expand during the twentieth century.

Q. Where Did These Animals Come From? Many of the dogs were brought over from England and Ireland, where dog fighting had begun to flourish after bull-baiting and bear-baiting became illegal in the 1830s.

Q. How Has the ASPCA Combated Dog Fighting Through the Years? Henry Bergh, founder of the ASPCA, was particularly repulsed by the brutality of the dog fighting he saw in New York and elsewhere. His 1867 revision of the state�2019;s animal cruelty law made all forms of animal fighting illegal for the first time, including bull, bear, dog and cockfighting. The involvement of regular police in dog fighting activities was one of the reasons Bergh sought and received authority for the ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement Agents to have arrest powers in New York.

Q. How Does the ASPCA Combat Dog Fighting Today? Today, the ASPCA incorporates information on blood �201c;sports�201d; in the animal cruelty trainings it provides in New York�2019;s police academies as well as in police officer trainings around the country.

It also provides training on a national level to animal control officers and veterinarians on how to identify the signs of animal cruelty, as well as in crime scene investigation (CSI).

In addition, the ASPCA regularly provides training and assistance to prosecutors on how to build an effective case against those charged with these crimes, and its experts often serve as witnesses in such cases. Several ASPCA employees have published educational and reference books on animal cruelty investigation and prosecution that are used widely throughout the country.

The ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) Department is active in enforcing New York City�2019;s animal cruelty laws and has played a vital role in raising awareness of animal cruelty.

Q. Are There Different Levels of Dog Fighting? Most law enforcement experts divide dog fight activity into three categories: street fighting, hobbyist fighting and professional activity:

�201c;Street�201d; fighters engage in dog fights that are informal street corner, back alley and playground activities. Stripped of the rules and formality of the traditional pit fight, these are spontaneous events triggered by insults, turf invasions or the simple taunt, �201c;My dog can kill yours.�201d; Many people who participate in these fights lack even a semblance of respect for the animals, often starving and beating them to encourage aggressive behavior. Many of the dogs are bred to be a threat not only to other dogs, but to people as well�97;with tragic consequences.

�201c;Street�201d; fights are often associated with gang activities. The fights may be conducted with money, drugs or bragging rights as the primary payoff. There is often no attempt to care for animals injured in the fight and police or animal control officers frequently encounter dead or dying animals in the aftermath of such fights. This activity is very difficult to respond to unless it is reported immediately. Professional fighters and hobbyists decry the techniques and results of these newcomers to the blood sport.

�201c;Hobbyist�201d; fighters are more organized, with one or more dogs participating in several organized fights a year as a sideline for both entertainment and to attempt to supplement income. They pay more attention to care and breeding of their dogs and are more likely to travel across state lines for events.

�201c;Professional�201d; dogfighters often have large numbers of animals (as many as 50 or more) and earn money from breeding, selling and fighting dogs at a central location and on the road. They often pay particular attention to promoting established winning bloodlines and to long-term conditioning of animals. They regularly dispose of animals that are not successful fighters or breeders using a variety of methods, including shooting and blunt force trauma. Unlike professional dogfighters of the past, both professionals and hobbyists of today may dispose of dogs that are too human-aggressive for the pit by selling them to �201c;street�201d; fighters or others who are simply looking for an aggressive dog�97;thus contributing to the dog bite problem.

In recent years, a fourth category of dogfighters seems to have emerged, with some wealthier individuals from the sports and entertainment worlds allegedly using their financial resources to promote professional dog fighting enterprises, which essentially use the philosophy and training techniques usually associated with street fighting.

Q. How Widespread is Dog Fighting in America? As with any other illegal underground activity, it is impossible to determine how many people may be involved in dog fighting. Estimates based on fight reports in underground dog fighting publications, and on animals entering shelters bearing evidence of fighting, suggest that the number of people involved in dog fighting in the U.S. is in the tens of thousands.

While organized dog fighting activity seemed to decline in the 1990s, many law enforcement and animal control officials feel that it has rebounded in recent years. Street fighting has reportedly continued to grow as a significant component of urban crime. The Internet has also made it easier for dogfighters to rapidly exchange information about animals and fights.

Q. Is Dog Fighting More Prevalent in One Part of the Country? No. Dog fighting has been reported in urban, suburban and rural settings in all regions of the country.

Fighters were traditionally attracted to states with weaker penalties for dog fighting and animal cruelty, many in the South�97;but laws continue to be made stronger throughout the country. As a result, this activity is no longer limited to any single area, but it is more likely to thrive wherever enforcement of anti-fighting laws is weak.

Q. What Types of People Are Involved in Dog Fighting? Just as dog fighting cuts across many regions of the country, participants and spectators at dog fights are a diverse group. While some might typify dog fighting as a symptom of urban decay, not every dogfighter is economically disadvantaged. There are people who promote or participate in dog fighting from every community and background. Audiences contain lawyers, judges and teachers and other upstanding community leaders drawn in by the excitement and thrill of the fight.

Q. What Other Crimes Are Associated With Dog Fighting? Many of the practices associated with the raising and training of fighting dogs can be prosecuted separately as animal abuse or neglect. In addition, dog fighting, by its very nature, involves illegal gambling. Dogfighters often face additional charges related to drug, alcohol and weapons violations as well as probation violations. Arguments over dog fights have also resulted in incidents that have led to charges of assault and even homicide. Other charges might include conspiracy, corruption of minors, money laundering, etc.

Q. Why Do People Get Involved In Dog Fighting? There are many reasons people are attracted to dog fighting. The most basic is greed. Major dog fight raids have resulted in seizures of more than $500,000, and it is not unusual for $20,000 - $30,000 to change hands in a single fight. Stud fees and the sale of pups from promising bloodlines can also bring in thousands of dollars.

For others, the attraction lies in using the animals as an extension of themselves to fight their battles for them and demonstrate their strength and prowess. However, when a dog loses, this can cause the owner of the dog to lose not only money, but status, and may lead to brutal actions against the dog.

For others, the appeal simply seems to come from the sadistic enjoyment of a brutal spectacle.

Q. What Dogs Are Used In Dog Fighting? Although there are many breeds of dogs used for fighting worldwide, including the Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, the Tosa Inu and the Presa Canario, the dog of choice for fighting in America is the American Pit Bull Terrier. Occasionally other breeds and mixes are reportedly used in street fights or as �201c;bait�201d; dogs used by some to train fighting dogs.

In the early days of dog fighting in England, the Old English Bulldog and the Bull and Terrier Dog, both now extinct, were the breeds of choice for this brutal blood sport. These breeds were replaced in the early twentieth century by the American Pit Bull Terrier�97;the Americanized version of the bull-baiting dogs from England.

Q. Does This Mean the Pit Bull Is Unsuitable As a Family Pet? Though bred for fighting other dogs�97;or perhaps because of that�97;the American Pit Bull terrier has long been a popular family pet, noted for his strength, intelligence and devotion.

It�2019;s important to remember any dog can behave aggressively, depending on the context, his genetic background, and his upbringing and environment. When a dog is treated well, properly trained and thoroughly socialized during puppyhood and matched with the right kind of owner and household, he�2019;s likely to develop into a well-behaved companion and cherished member of the family. However, some Pit Bulls and Pit Bull mixes may be more inclined to develop aggression toward other dogs

Q. Can All dogs Be Trained to Fight? No. Much like herding dogs, trailing dogs and other breeds selected for particular roles, fighting dogs are born ready for the training that will prepare them to succeed in the pit, and are bred to have a high degree of dog aggression.

Q. Where Do the Dogs Who Are Used In Dog Fights Come From? For professional and hobbyist dogfighters, the sale of pups from parents who have won several fights is a major part of their activity. Underground dog fighting publications and websites are commonly used to advertise pups or the availability of breeding stock. Many �201c;street�201d; fighters think they can also make money by breeding and selling dogs, but a great number of these animals are killed or abandoned if they fail to perform.

Q. How Are Fighting Dogs Raised and Trained? Fighting dogs must be kept isolated from other dogs, so they spend most of their lives on short, heavy chains, often just out of reach of other dogs. They are usually unsocialized to any other dogs and to most people. However, many professional fighters invest much time and money in conditioning their animals. They are often given quality nutrition and basic veterinary care. The dogs are exercised under controlled conditions, such as on a treadmill or �201c;jenny.�201d;

The conditioning of fighting dogs may also make use of a variety of legal and illegal drugs, including anabolic steroids to enhance muscle mass and encourage aggressiveness. Narcotic drugs may also be used to increase the dogs�2019; aggression, increase reactivity and mask pain or fear during a fight. Young animals are often trained or tested by allowing them to fight with other dogs in well-controlled �201c;rolls.�201d; Those who show little inclination to fight may be discarded or killed. Some fighters will use stolen pets as "bait dogs," or sparring partners.

There are many other common techniques used in the training and testing of dogs, but these methods vary widely among different fighters and may range from systematic to haphazard. �201c;Street�201d; fighters usually make little investment in conditioning or training their animals. Instead, they rely on cruel methods to encourage their dogs to fight, including starvation, physical abuse, isolation and the use of stimulants or other drugs that excite the dogs.

Q. Why Do Fighting Dogs Have Their Ears Cropped and Tails Docked? Fighting dogs used by all types of fighters may have their ears cropped and tails docked close to their bodies. This serves two purposes. First, it limits the areas of the body that another dog can grab onto in a fight, and second, it makes it more difficult for other dogs to read the animal�2019;s mood and intentions through the normal body language cues dogs use in aggressive encounters.

Fighters usually perform this cropping/docking themselves using crude and inhumane techniques. This can lead to additional criminal charges related to animal cruelty and/or the illegal practice of veterinary medicine.

Q. What Goes On In a Dog Fight? As noted above, fights can take place in a variety of locations and at any time. They may be impromptu events in a back alley, or carefully planned and staged enterprises in a location specially designed and maintained for the purpose. Usually the fight takes place in a pit that is between 14 and 20 feet square, with sides that may be plywood, hay bales, chain link or anything else that can contain the animals. The flooring may be dirt, wood, carpet or sawdust. The pit has �201c;scratch lines�201d; marked in opposite corners, where the dogs will face each other from 12 to 14 feet apart.

In a more organized fight, the dogs will be weighed to make sure they are approximately the same weight. Handlers will often wash and examine the opponent�2019;s dog to remove any toxic substances that may have been placed on the fur in an attempt to deter or harm the opposing dog. At the start of the fight, the dogs are released from their corners and usually meet in the middle, wrestling to get a hold on the opponent. If they do, the dogs grab and shake to inflict maximal damage. Handlers are not permitted to touch the dogs except when told to do so by the referee. This can happen if dogs when, as described below, one dog �201c;turns.�201d;

If a dog turns away from his opponent without renewing his attack, the referee may call a �201c;turn�201d; and require that the dogs be returned to their corners. The handlers collect their dogs and tend to them briefly before returning to the scratch lines. The dog who turned is released first. If the dog who committed the �201c;turn�201d; fails to cross the pit and engage his opponent, the match is over and the other dog is the winner. A draw may occur if both dogs fail to �201c;scratch�201d; several times in succession, i.e. repeatedly fail to cross the scratch lines and re-engage in the fight. This is an unusual and often unpopular end for the dogs involved.

Q. How Long Do Dog Fights Last? Fights can last just a few minutes or several hours. Both animals may suffer injuries, including puncture wounds, lacerations, blood loss, crushing injuries and broken bones. Although fights are not usually to the death, many dogs succumb to their injuries later.

Q. What Happens to the Losing Dog? Unless they have had a good history of past performance or come from valuable bloodlines, losing dogs are often discarded, killed or simply left with their injuries untreated. If the losing dog is perceived to be a particular embarrassment to the reputation or status of its owner, it may be executed in a particularly brutal fashion as part of the �201c;entertainment.�201d;

Q. What Are the Laws Related to Dog Fighting? As of 2008, dog fighting is a felony in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In most states, the possession of dogs for the purpose of fighting is also a felony offense. Being a spectator at a dog fight is illegal in all states except Montana and Hawaii. See a chart of state dog fighting laws and their penalties, which vary widely.

On the federal side, the Animal Welfare Act of 1966 prohibits certain animal fighting-related activities when they have involved more than one state or interstate mail services, including the U.S. Postal Service. In 2007, Congress passed the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act with strong bipartisan support. The Act amended the Animal Welfare Act and provides felony penalties for interstate commerce, import and export relating to commerce in fighting dogs, fighting cocks and cockfighting paraphernalia. Each violation can result in up to three years in jail and a $250,000 fine.

Q. What Happens to Dogs Who Are Seized From Dog Fight Operations? Can They Be Rehabilitated? Dogs from professional fighters have been bred and trained to inflict injuries on other dogs, so they can be difficult to house and care for safely. They are usually very friendly to people�97;they�2019;ve been bred for this trait so that they can be easily handled during fights�97;but, unfortunately, these dogs can be extremely dangerous to other dogs. That is why the ASPCA recommends that all dogs seized from fighting raids be assessed by professional behaviorists.

Each dog should undergo a standardized evaluation that is designed to gauge the dog�2019;s reaction to a range of experiences common to most companion dogs, including being handled by a stranger, playing with people and toys, having a bowl of food and a chew bone taken away, meeting a doll that looks and sounds like a child and meeting other dogs. In some cases, dogs that demonstrate mild to moderate levels of aggression or fear may be candidates for rehabilitation if such resources are available. Concerns about liability, public safety and the animal�2019;s well-being mean that dogs exhibiting extreme fear or severe aggression toward people or other dogs are not adoptable and often have to be euthanized.

All dogs from fighting raids that are placed in foster or adoptive homes must be carefully monitored over the long term because we still don�2019;t know how likely these dogs are to develop aggressive behavior in the future.

Confiscated fighting dogs are also at high risk of being stolen from shelters, foster care or other placements and returned to the fight trade. Therefore, it is especially important for shelters to put solid security measures in place while housing fighting dogs, to spay and neuter dogs who are adopted out, and to educate foster groups and adopters about why it is best not to disclose the identity of these dogs to their friends and acquaintances.

Q. If Dog Fighting Is So Widespread, Why Don�2019;t More Cases Come to Light? Dog fighting is a violent and highly secretive enterprise that is extremely difficult for law enforcement and investigative professionals to infiltrate. A dog fight investigation requires many of the same skills and resources as a major undercover narcotics investigation, and challenges the resources of any agency that seeks to respond to it.

An additional complication is that the evidence likely to be seized in a raid includes the dogs�97;living creatures who must be taken care of and maintained while the judicial process unfolds. Most prosecutors would be happy to take on every dog fight case they could, but they are limited by the human and animal care resources available to them.

Q. What Can Communities Do to Combat Dog Fighting? The first step in combating dog fighting is for individuals to alert the authorities to any suspected or actual dog fighting activities in their area�97;identification of the problem is the first step to a solution.

In addition, the ASPCA recommends the formation of local or state task forces to address dog fighting. These groups should include members from all the major stakeholders in that community�97;law enforcement, prosecutors, animal control, animal welfare groups, veterinarians, public health officials, housing authorities, the neighborhood watch and others. The group should identify the nature of the problems in the area, the laws that could be applied to these problems, and the resources that are available. Dog fighting is most effectively addressed by a collaborative approach to this heinous crime.

Q. What Can Citizens Do? The enforcement of animal cruelty laws begins with the individual. If you see something, please say something�97;notify your local police and/or humane law enforcement of any suspicious activities that suggest dog fighting is taking place in your community.

Q. How Prevalent Is Dog Fighting in New York City? In general, dog fighting is difficult to detect. ASPCA HLE Agents report seeing the peripheral effects and elements of dog fighting�97;these include injured dogs who had extensive wounds consistent with injuries of a "bait dog," such as scars and cuts in various stages of healing, as well as multiple, and often serious, bite wounds.

Paraphernalia associated with dog fighting such as treadmills, break sticks, steroids, pain-numbing drugs, syringes and weapons, large amounts of cash or other evidence of gambling is occasionally discovered, but not often enough to consider the blood sport prevalent in New York City.

Q. Does the ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital (BMAH) See Many Dogs Who Have Incurred Injuries As a Result of Dog Fighting? What Kind of Injuries Do These Dogs Most Often Show? No, the ASPCA BMAH rarely, if ever, sees dogs who have incurred injuries as a result of dog fighting. This does not mean that dog fighting does not occur in New York. It is possible that such dogs are less likely to be brought to the ASPCA for treatment. Their owners might avoid the ASPCA because they know that the organization is sensitive to signs of animal cruelty and might place them under investigation.

In general, fighting dogs are less likely to have access to veterinary professionals for treatment of their injuries. Veterinarians should be watchful for some of the typical injuries in fighting dogs, including unprofessionally cropped tails and ears, multiple bite wounds, heavy scarring, missing and torn ears and lips, and previously broken limbs that healed improperly. Several states (including Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin and West Virginia) specifically require veterinarians to report suspicions of dog fighting when confronted with animals with such injuries.

Breed Specific Legislation Dealing with Reckless Owners and Dangerous Dogs in Your Community Dogs permitted by their owners to run loose, and dogs who attack people or other animals, are real and often serious problems in communities across the country—but how to best address dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs can be a confusing and touchy issue.

“Breed-specific” legislation (BSL) is the blanket term for laws that either regulate or ban certain breeds completely in the hopes of reducing dog attacks. Some city/municipal governments have enacted breed-specific laws, as has the State of Ohio. However, the problem of dangerous dogs will not be remedied by the “quick fix” of breed-specific laws—or, as they should truly be called, breed-discriminatory laws.

It is worth noting that in some areas, regulated breeds include not just American Pit Bull terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, English Bull Terriers and Rottweilers, but also a variety of other dogs, including American Bulldogs, Mastiffs, Dalmatians, Chow Chows, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, or any mix of these breeds—and dogs who simply resemble these breeds.

On the bright side, many states (including New York, Texas and Illinois) favor laws that identify, track and regulate dangerous dogs individually, regardless of breed, and prohibit BSL.

Are Breed-Specific Laws Effective? There is no evidence that breed-specific laws—which are costly and difficult to enforce—make communities safer for people or companion animals. For example, Prince George’s County, MD, spends more than $250,000 annually to enforce its ban on Pit Bulls. In 2003, a study conducted by the county on the ban’s effectiveness noted that “public safety is not improved as a result of [the ban],” and that “there is no transgression committed by owner or animal that is not covered by another, non-breed specific portion of the Animal Control Code (i.e., vicious animal, nuisance animal, leash laws).”

Following a thorough study of human fatalities resulting from dog bites, the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) decided not to support BSL. The CDC cited, among other problems, the inaccuracy of dog bite data and the difficulty in identifying dog breeds (especially true of mixed-breed dogs). The CDC also noted the likelihood that as certain breeds are regulated, those who exploit dogs by making them aggressive will replace them with other, unregulated breeds.

What’s Wrong with Breed-Specific Laws? BSL carries a host of negative and wholly unintended consequences:

Dogs go into hiding
Rather than give up their beloved pets, owners of highly regulated or banned breeds often attempt to avoid detection of their “outlaw” dogs by restricting outdoor exercise and socialization and forgoing licensing, microchipping and proper veterinary care, including spay/neuter surgery and essential vaccinations. Such actions have implications both for public safety and the health of these dogs.

Good owners and dogs are punished
BSL also causes hardship to responsible owners of entirely friendly, properly supervised and well-socialized dogs who happen to fall within the regulated breed. Although these dog owners have done nothing to endanger the public, they are required to comply with local breed bans and regulations unless they are able to mount successful (and often costly) legal challenges.

They impart a false sense of security
Breed-specific laws have a tendency to compromise rather than enhance public safety. When limited animal control resources are used to regulate or ban a certain breed of dog, without regard to behavior, the focus is shifted away from routine, effective enforcement of laws that have the best chance of making our communities safer: dog license laws, leash laws, animal fighting laws, anti-tethering laws, laws facilitating spaying and neutering and laws that require all owners to control their dogs, regardless of breed.
They may actually encourage ownership by irresponsible people
If you outlaw a breed, then outlaws are attracted to that breed. Unfortunately some people take advantage of the “outlaw” status of their breed of choice to bolster their own self image as living outside of the rules of mainstream society. Ironically, the rise of Pit Bull ownership among gang members and others in the late 1980’s coincided with the first round of breed-specific legislation.

What’s the Alternative to Breed-Specific Laws? In the aforementioned study, the CDC noted that many other factors beyond breed may affect a dog’s tendency toward aggression—things such as heredity, sex, early experience, reproductive status, socialization and training. These last two concerns are well-founded, given that:

For help in drafting animal control laws, contact the ASPCA’s Government Relations department at lobby@ASPCA.org.

PBH Adoptions & Mid Florida APBT Assoc. Fun Show

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 10:20:12 -0400

Pet Supermarket & PBH Education & Adoption Event ~ New Port Richey

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 10:17:40 -0400

PBH Adoptions & Mid Florida APBT Assoc. Fun Show!!

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 10:14:44 -0400

Independence Day - Fourth of July!! Proud to be an American!

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 09:59:48 -0400

Independence Day - Fourth of July - 1776

Thank you to all of our Troops of the past, present, and future!! Thank you for guaranteeing our Freedoms and Independence!!

History.com/topics/july_4th
Variously known as the Fourth of July and Independence Day, July 4th has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution (1775-83). In June 1776, representatives of the 13 colonies then fighting in the revolutionary struggle weighed a resolution that would declare their independence from Great Britain. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later its delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 until the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with typical festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues.

The Birth of American Independence
When the initial battles in the Revolutionary War broke out in April 1775, few colonists desired complete independence from Great Britain, and those who did were considered radical. By the middle of the following year, however, many more colonists had come to favor independence, thanks to growing hostility against Britain and the spread of revolutionary sentiments such as those expressed in Thomas Paine's bestselling pamphlet "Common Sense," published in early 1776. On June 7, when the Continental Congress met at the Pennsylvania State House (later Independence Hall) in Philadelphia, the Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee introduced a motion calling for the colonies' independence. Amid heated debate, Congress postponed the vote on Lee's resolution, but appointed a five-man committee--including Thomas Jefferson of Virginia, John Adams of Massachusetts, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Robert R. Livingston of New York--to draft a formal statement justifying the break with Great Britain.

On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor of Lee's resolution for independence in a near-unanimous vote (the New York delegation abstained, but later voted affirmatively). On that day, John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail that July 2 "will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival" and that the celebration should include "Pomp and Parade...Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other." On July 4th, the Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which had been written largely by Jefferson. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd, from then on the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American independence.

Early Fourth of July Celebrations
In the pre-Revolutionary years, colonists had held annual celebrations of the king's birthday, which traditionally included the ringing of bells, bonfires, processions and speechmaking. By contrast, during the summer of 1776 some colonists celebrated the birth of independence by holding mock funerals for King George III, as a way of symbolizing the end of the monarchy's hold on America and the triumph of liberty. Festivities including concerts, bonfires, parades and the firing of cannons and muskets usually accompanied the first public readings of the Declaration of Independence, beginning immediately after its adoption. Philadelphia held the first annual commemoration of independence on July 4, 1777, while Congress was still occupied with the ongoing war. George Washington issued double rations of rum to all his soldiers to mark the anniversary of independence in 1778, and in 1781, several months before the key American victory at Yorktown, Massachusetts became the first state to make July 4th an official state holiday.

After the Revolutionary War, Americans continued to commemorate Independence Day every year, in celebrations that allowed the new nation's emerging political leaders to address citizens and create a feeling of unity. By the last decade of the 18th century, the two major political parties--Federalists and Democratic-Republicans--that had arisen began holding separate Independence Day celebrations in many large cities.

July 4th Becomes A National Holiday
The tradition of patriotic celebration became even more widespread after the War of 1812, in which the United States again faced Great Britain. In 1870, the U.S. Congress made July 4th a federal holiday; in 1941, the provision was expanded to grant a paid holiday to all federal employees. Over the years, the political importance of the holiday would decline, but Independence Day remained an important national holiday and a symbol of patriotism.

Falling in mid-summer, the Fourth of July has since the late 19th century become a major focus of leisure activities and a common occasion for family get-togethers, often involving fireworks and outdoor barbecues. The most common symbol of the holiday is the American flag, and a common musical accompaniment is "The Star-Spangled Banner," the national anthem of the United States.

http://www.history.com/topics/july-4th

"Dangerous dogs" returned to owners

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 09:12:30 -0400

"Dangerous dogs" returned to owners8:20pm Friday 24th June 2011

TWO pets suspected of being on the dangerous dogs list have been returned to their owners.

Police seized Aggro and Bullseye from a home in Clacton last week amid fears they were banned pitbulls.

But the dogs were handed back to owner Elaine Miller after tests revealed the animals were legal.

She had protested the Aggro and Bullseye's innocence from the moment they were taken away.

Elaine, 38, said: "They have no characteristics of pitbulls whatsoever - that's why I was so annoyed.

"I'd have been heartbroken if they had turned out to be pitbulls but I knew they weren't."

She said the family was delighted to see their pets back again.

The mum of five added: “The kids are over the moon to have them back.

"My daughter Bayleigh cried most nights they were away because she goes to sleep with Aggro.

"She couldn't wait to go to bed last night because she'd got her friend back which was really nice."

The dogs were kept in kennels for a week after police raided the house in Lupin Way.

Officers were joined by council dog wardens and police dog handlers.

Tests carried out to see if the dogs were on the dangerous breeds list were negative.

A police spokesman said: "Police officers will always act on information where we believe there are dogs that pose a threat to the public and take appropriate action.

"We work closely with the RSPCA and local authorities.

"Where it is found that no offence has been committed, dogs will be returned to their owners."

http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/local...to_owners/

Marysville workshop teaches responsible pit bull ownership

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 09:03:55 -0400

Marysville workshop teaches responsible pit bull ownership
June 23, 2011 11:37:00 PM
By Nancy Pasternack/Appeal-Democrat

It's not quite a baby voice. But when Sacramento pit bull advocate, trainer and attorney Dawn Capp gives her dogs their instructions, the tone is something less than commanding.

Still, the dogs obey: Sit, stay, come, down.

When a young pit bull-in-training walks by — barking and straining at its leash — her dog Tauri yawns.

On Saturday, Capp will be at VIP Pets in Marysville to conduct a workshop on responsible pit bull ownership and training.

Capp says the steady stream of news stories highlighting vicious dog attacks should be reason enough for owners to take their responsibility seriously.

All such incidents, she said, "can be traced back to irresponsible breeding and irresponsible pet ownership."

Bad aspects of the breed's reputation, she said, are a product of human behavior.

"They're often neglected, and they're overbred," Capp said of the "bully" breeds, including pit bulls. "And they're victimized. They make up a large percentage of dogs euthanized at shelters."

Her Saturday workshop will be among several simultaneous events the D Street pet supply store will host to celebrate its official grand opening.

The store also will kick off the opening of a self-grooming area in the store where pet owners can bathe their animals with a new wet vacuum device, said Emma Chan, manager of the D Street store.

On Saturday, customers and their pets can participate for free.

Yuba County Animal Services also will bring adoptable animals for potential pet owners to view at the store.

Ten area dog owners have reserved a spot and are scheduled to attend Capp's pit bull workshop, said Chan.

The one-time, free introductory session is sponsored by Chako Pit Bull Rescue, a nonprofit organization founded by Capp.

Capp, whose Sacramento law practice often takes on canine-related cases, teaches a regular schedule of six-week pit bull obedience classes in and around Sacramento, as well as dog reactivity workshops and canine citizenship and testing workshops.

Contact reporter Nancy Pasternack at 749-4781.

http://www.appeal-democrat.com/news/pit-...-dogs.html

Senate Bill Helps Pit Bulls

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 08:08:29 -0400

Senate Bill Helps Pit Bulls
Gov. Scott Signs Bill Designed To Evaluate Dangerous Pit Bulls
POSTED: Friday, June 24, 2011
UPDATED: 10:32 pm EDT June 24, 2011

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Gov. Rick Scott made a change to Florida laws that will make pit bull lovers happy.

Scott signed Senate Bill 772 into law. The law shows support for treating pit bulls as individuals and giving them a chance to survive after terrible abuse.

Stephanie Swisher loves her dog Alka. Even though Alka is a pit bull her family said she is the opposite of the stereotype. Swisher said her pit bull was badly abused by her previous owner.

"She was not allowed to be adopted out by animal control because she had been involved in a known dog-fighting ring," said Swisher. "She would not fight, so she was used as a bait dog."

Alka has several scars, but the pictures Swisher showed Channel 4 of Alka right after she was rescued looked like a different dog, Alka was severely malnourished.

"We recognized her, found her, and my husband and I said, 'We can't, as sweet as this dog is, we can't watch her go out and not know what happens to her again. We have to take her home."

Under the new law, dogs like Alka will be given a chance instead of being immediately written off as dangerous. Before Senate Bill 772, dogs like Alka would immediately be euthanized because of their involvement in dog fighting. The new law says that dogs captured as victims of dog-fighting operations should be evaluated individually and then adopted into good homes instead of automatic euthanization. Swisher's family thinks the new bill is "amazing."

"There are dogs that are not able to be adopted out, but not every dog in this situation is a dangerous dog. Alka came from a situation of horrible neglect and abuse, and she's amazing," said Swisher.

Copyright 2011 by News4Jax.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

http://www.news4jax.com/news/28353251/detail.html

AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day Event

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:11:29 -0400

Pit Bull Happenings will be there at our Booth with the PBH Rescue Dogs!!

We hope to see you there!! Event details can be found at our Event on on our Facebook Fan Page!! Click Here!

AKC.org/clubs/rdod/" target="_blank">2011 AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days

Dear Dog Lover:

We hope you will join us in September 2011 as the AKC invites and encourages all dog and pet-related organizations to commemorate AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days by holding a community event that publicly promotes responsible dog ownership anytime during the month. To get started, scroll down to Create an Account or login if you have hosted an event in previous years!

The AKC will be hosting its own event in Raleigh, NC on Saturday, September 24, 2011 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This flagship event will highlight the AKC programs and services that support responsible dog ownership. It will also publicize to news media and the dog loving community that events are being held across the country by organizations such as yours.
Some suggestions to help commemorate AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days include:

ID clinic- Hold an AKC/CAR microchip clinic
Rescue information booth
Health clinic/health screen testing/First Aid for dogs
Meet the breeds/Find the right dog for you
AKC Canine Partners demonstration and/or booth
Obedience/Agility/Rally/Performance demonstrations
Hold free training class for dog owners and give a presentation about AKC Purebred Alternative Listing Program or AKC Canine Partners
Therapy/SAR Dog or Police K9 Unit demonstrations
"AKC Safety Around Dogs" for kids presentations (in-school or for children's groups)
A kids contest with awards for best drawings, photos or essays about dogs
AKC Canine Good Citizen test (requires additional kit purchase)
Seek sponsorships or donated items from local businesses to be raffled or for contest prizes
Raise money to donate/dedicate needed items to local dog park/runs (pooper scoopers, bulletin boards, water fountains, etc.)
Fundraising events for AKC Canine Health Foundation
Write a letter to the editor of your local newspapers
Obtain a proclamation from your Governor, Mayor etc.

Last year, more than 550 dog clubs and other organizations hosted events reaching millions of dog lovers and potential pet owners through extensive media coverage. Dog lovers also posted thousands of "Acts of Responsible Dog Ownership" on our Facebook and Twitter pages to help us celebrate "Virtual AKC RDO Days." This year, follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get the latest AKC RDO Days updates and participate in our virtual celebration!

We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to interact with the public and gain positive exposure for your club, breed and the AKC. Your participation will help this worthwhile program continue to gain momentum each year, benefiting dogs and dog owners everywhere!

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments.*

Sincerely,

Stephanie Smith
Club Communications Manager

*For further information about AKC RDO Days please contact Stephanie Smith at 212-696-8228 or Communications@AKC.org

AKC.org/clubs/rdod/" target="_blank">http://www.AKC.org/clubs/rdod/

‘The Nanny Dogs’

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 09:22:35 -0400

‘The Nanny Dogs’
Programs Help Humane Society Make Sure Dogs Are Ready For Adoption
June 20, 2011
By Sharon Turano (sturano@post-journal.com) , The Post-Journal

Sue Bobek, Chautauqua County Humane Society community relations coordinator, wants those considering adopting a dog to know help is available to them to make the pet one with which they can bond, no matter what the breed.

A "pit crew" special begins today and runs through July 3 in hopes of getting pit bulls in the society's Pet Adoption Center adopted. Terry Suppa, a local race car driver, has joined with the society to promote pit bull adoptions by reducing adoption fees to $50, about 50 percent of what the fee usually is. Whether adopting the pit bulls or another breed, however, Ms. Bobek said training is available so the pet and owner can find just what they want.

Ms. Bobek said the society takes in a lot of strays picked up by animal control. They are held while humane society staff members try to find their owners. If they cannot be found, the animals are temperament-evaluated. If they pass the test, she said, the animals are put up for adoption.

Those seeking to adopt should meet several criteria. For instance, people with their own homes are sought so the agency does not have to again find a home a second time for the same dog, which may be required when a renter moves into a new location where a landlord does not allow pets. She said adult animals are harder to place, if returned to the society, so it tries to reduce the number it takes back by adopting to home owners and not renters.

The agency also asks the family, including other dogs, to visit with the new pet to do a "dog meet."

"You don't like everyone you meet," she said about people, adding the same is true with dogs. "We want to make sure they are part of the family.

'THE NANNY DOG'

She said pit bulls in particular are sometimes desired to be "a status signal," which the agency does not want. She said the pit bulls are thought of as a signal of toughness and not a family pet.

Despite their stigma, she said, "pit bulls are people friendly." Most bites, she said, are from those tied up outside. She said that leads to them being territorial and aggressive. When people wander by, that can result in a bite. She said, however, pit bulls were once called "the nanny dog." While she would not encourage leaving children with animals alone, she said pit bulls are protective resulting in the name. She said the agency also has pit bull play groups, adding they did not used to have a reputation for being tough, but, rather loyal.

Training is available for any dog from the agency for a discounted fee if adopted there, she said, adding obedience class is offered with a pet behavior specialist. Since pit bulls are a strong dog, she said, it is important they get such training. She said it provides a bond that can be seen when one works with another, including a pet.

"You can't help but love them even more," she said about a pet that is well-trained.

For instance, she said, people get frustrated if they command a dog to come and it runs the other way. Although she said behavior of any animal can't be predicted in all situations, training can help people get to know the pet so they can be aware of its behavior enough to know that taking them for a walk with a lot of people around when they are having an off-day may not be the best idea.

"Dogs have bad days too, just like people," she said.

If there is a bond established between animal and owner, they understand each other.

HEAVEN CAN WAIT

For dogs that do not pass the agency's temperament-evaluation, she said, a program called "Heaven Can Wait," is available. She said it began in November, when the agency sought volunteers to particiate. They are trained on working with dogs that may have problem behaviors. For instance, she said, one was afraid of strangers, another was cat-aggressive, and yet another had a particular fondness for a certain raw hide, meaning if someone not knowing that tried to take it, a problem could result.

The animals are worked with by the volunteers, who then market them to the right family. The dog that was cat-aggressive went to live with a family that had cat allergies.

She said the program prevents animals who may have a problem but are great in every other way from being euthanized. She said the agency has a 93 percent save right and wanted to increase that so the animals with one particular problem could be adopted. Whether the volunteers work at the society or at a foster home, she said, addressing the problem makes the animal more appealing to a family.

Not all of the dogs in the program are pit bulls, she said, adding some have been. She wants people considering adoption to know the dogs of any breed can be worked with if a family is willing to make the commitment that may be necessary.

She said eight to 12 pit bulls are adopted annually, but, she said, there is a stigma to them as some think they are prone to attack. Although Ms. Bobek said the number of bites by pit bulls is low considered to other breeds, when bites do occur they are damaging due to the shape of the breed's jaw.

"It's part of the responsibility of the owner," she said about making any dog including pit bulls well-trained and socialized.

For information on adopting a dog, including the pit bulls for which the pit crew special is ongoing, call 665-2209 or visit www.spcapets.com.

© Copyright 2011 The Post-Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

http://post-journal.com/page/content.det...l?nav=5192

“Pit Bulls are wonderful companions"

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:58:11 -0400

“Pit Bulls are wonderful companions"
June 19, 2011 7:22 am ET
Jeannette Smith | Arlington Animal Advocacy Examiner

The most difficult aspect of Amy LaFerrera’s job as an Animal Welfare League of Arlington Adoption Counselor is animal surrender. Handling caregivers who give up their pets for reasons out of their control “is heartbreaking from every angle.”

Before a companion animal is available for adoption at The Animal Welfare League of Arlington, all animals receive an initial health evaluation. Canine intake is a more involved process, which includes behavior assessment, also known as temperament testing. As an AWLA Adoption Counselor, Amy evaluates dogs received into AWLA and interacts with them on a daily basis. The League does not have an adoption deadline for any animal; however, there are challenges placing Pit Bull Terriers and Pit Bull Terrier Mixes, who will likely remain at the shelter twice as long as other breeds, into quality homes.

“Each dog I see is highly individual,“ Amy says. “Pit Bulls are wonderful companions. In general, I find the Pit Bull and Pit Bull mixes I work with to be intelligent, energetic, and attentive. They tend to be very social with people.”

Inclined to be strong, confident animals, with lots of energy, Pit Bulls “don’t always show well when potential adopters come to see them in the kennels.” The easily excitable disposition of Pit Bulls coupled with the stimuli of the shelter environment can increase stress, channeling energy into jumping and barking. AWLA staff and volunteers diligently work with the Pit Bulls in their care on positive training exercises to teach them control of their arousal levels.

Advertisement Additional challenges placing Pit Bulls include residential lease regulations, breed restrictions, and public perception of the Pit Bull breed. Misinformed or unfamiliar with Pit Bulls, people may judge Pit Bulls based on negative media and therefore do not consider adopting one. “We advocate treating each dog as an individual. We look at the personality of each dog and do make suggestions to people based on which dog may be a good fit for them regardless of breed.” Amy believes, “there are many adopters who would be well suited to a Pit Bull type dog, who have pre-existing opinions on the breed.”

The AWLA distributes information on Pit Bulls to educate the public and potential adopters on health, training, socialization, and the physical and mental stimulation Pit Bulls need. “With the formation of the AWLA Pit Crew, we can reach a wider audience in the community to educate people on the myths and truths of Pit Bulls in general.”

The AWLA Pit Crew meets every Wednesday at 6pm at The Animal Welfare League of Arlington. All are welcome to join their efforts Saving America’s Dog.

Meet Abby, ID#A030980, AWLA Positive Pit Bull Pet of the Week

http://www.examiner.com/animal-advocacy-...companions

Kennel Club speaks up on pit bull ban

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:19:20 -0400

Posted: 10:27 PM Jun 20, 2011

Kennel Club speaks up on pit bull ban
Calls for responsible ownership, not outlawing them
PORTERDALE — Representatives of the Conyers Kennel Club urged City Council members last week to target irresponsible dog owners rather than a specific breed of dog.
Reporter: By Alice Queen
Email Address: alice.queen@newtoncitizen.com

PORTERDALE — Representatives of the Conyers Kennel Club urged City Council members last week to target irresponsible dog owners rather than a specific breed of dog.

City Council members earlier this month expressed interest in pursuing a ban on pit bulldogs in the city limits, as proposed by Councilman Mike Harper. The council had agreed unanimously to research whether or not ownership of certain breeds could be banned or restricted in the town.

At last Thursday’s work session, Harper acknowledged that tough financial times might mean that the research would have to be put on the back burner.

“Somebody’s got to do it sooner or later,” he said, “but with the budget we’ve got right now, we need to back off this right now.”

Representatives of the Conyers Kennel Club, which includes Rockdale, Newton and Henry counties, provided information to the council regarding pit bulldogs and offered to work with the council on developing a city code that will promote responsible dog ownership.

Conyers Kennel Club President Don Watson, who lives in Oxford, said pit bulls typically resemble an American Staffordshire terrier. These dogs generally have a sweet disposition, Watson said, but can be trained to fight and kill.

“That is not the dog’s fault; that’s the owner’s fault,” Watson said.

Watson said in his more than 20 years of participating in large dog shows, he has never seen an American Staffordshire show aggression toward other dogs or people.

Nancy Donahue, a member of the Conyers Kennel Club, asked council members to “target the deed, not the breed,” pointing out that “pit bull” is not a recognized breed of dog but rather dogs that share a group of similar physical characteristics.

“Breed-specific legislation has been deemed unconstitutional in many municipalities because of the difficulty in identification (of the breed),” she said.

Councilmembers also heard from Carol Johnson, a veterinarian technician at Animal Medical Clinic, who said she is the owner of a pit bull. Johnson said the council should give more emphasis to whether or not a dog is spayed or neutered rather than the breed of dog.

“How many (dogs in Newton County) are neutered or spayed?” she asked. “And isn’t that more of a factor in aggressiveness?”

Johnson said that fewer than 40 percent of dogs in the county are neutered or spayed, even though free or reduced-fee clinics are available to dog owners.

The council also considered information from Porterdale resident Jerry Goldsmith, who rescues and fosters dogs. Goldsmith pointed out that, according to the American Humane Society, 92 percent of fatal dog attacks involve male dogs. In addition, he said, of that 92 percent, 94 percent “were not neutered, and nowhere in (Porterdale’s) dog ordinance do we require a dog to be neutered.”

Watson said that the Conyers Kennel Club would not be in favor of a mandatory spay/neuter program since show dogs must be intact. However, he said that the club would support a spay/neuter program if show dogs were exempted. He told the council that the kennel club would work with the city to find low-cost spay/neuter programs for city residents.

Mayor Bobby Hamby recommended that Councilwoman Linda Finger, who spearheaded Porterdale’s mandatory pet registration program, work with the Conyers Kennel Club on developing ordinance changes that would address the city’s concerns about dangerous dogs. Watson said the kennel club and the Georgia Canine Coalition could review the city’s animal control ordinance and help draft changes that would promote responsible pet ownership.

Councilman Harper, however, said he did not want an organization from Conyers to “derail” their efforts. He said he would not be satisfied with less than an outright ban on pit bulls.

“If you ban pit bulls from Porterdale and we stick behind it, then we won’t have pit bull attacks in Porterdale,” he said. “If we don’t do something, it’s going to eventually happen here.”

http://www.rockdalecitizen.com/newtonnew...33169.html

Saginaw City Council passes 'Dangerous dogs' ordinance 5-3

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:09:59 -0400

Saginaw City Council passes 'Dangerous dogs' ordinance 5-3
Published: Monday, June 20, 2011, 9:37 PM Updated: Tuesday, June 21, 2011, 7:25 AM
By Gus Burns | The Saginaw News

A pair of pit bulls are caged in the Saginaw County Animal Care Center.

Saginaw dog owners have a few more rules to follow.

The City Council Monday passed the contentious "dangerous dogs" ordinance after a year of debate, which requires owners of designated breeds -‑ pit bulls, presa canario, bull mastiffs, rottweilers and German shepherds -- to register their pets at the City Clerk's office for $20, post a sign in the front of their homes stating "Dog on premises" and keep their animals either on a leash or within a 4-foot pen.

The measure passed 5-3, with Councilman Dennis Browning, Councilman Andrew Wendt and Counclman Larry Coulouris dissenting.

Browning and Wendt took issue with the breed-specific language, while Coulouris said he wished an advocate for responsible dog owners had been on the committee.

"There are a lot of responsible dog owners that are going to be taking the brunt of this, and at some point we should have had a representative from that group on our committee," Coulouris said.

Councilman William Scharffe and Councilman Dan Fitzpatrick, who drafted the ordinance, said they made concessions throughout the process and are pleased with the version that passed.

"The process took a long time and there was a lot of input from a variety of sources," Scharffe said.

He said much of the comment against the law came from outside the city.

City Council cast an 8-0 vote in favor of another ordinance that forbids tethering as a primary means for confinement and limits the number of dogs owned by a single resident to three.

Residents who own a dog that is deemed "dangerous" are required to register their animal at the City Clerk's office, 1315 S. Washington in Saginaw, by June 30 to be in compliance.

http://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw/index....and_o.html