About Pit Bulls
It is not the breed that is a threat to society but rather society is a threat to the breed. — Unknown
When you think of American Pit Bull Terriers do you think of the media-induced images of “fight dogs” with chains around their necks, or do you think of a big slobbery kisser? Do you think of a scary attack dog, or one that will curl up and snuggle with you? Anyone who’s ever been around a Pit Bull knows they are sweet, loyal dogs that have become discriminated against because of irresponsible and sometimes cruel ownership. We’ve all seen the news – we’ve seen what horrible things are done to Pit Bulls.
The United Kennel Club (UKC) breed standard describes the essential characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) as “strength, confidence, and zest for life. This breed is eager to please and brimming over with enthusiasm. APBTs make excellent family companions and have always been noted for their love of children.” It is “a dog that embodies all of the virtues attributed to great warriors: strength, indomitable courage, and gentleness with loved ones.”
The APBT was once held up as a symbol of the American spirit. A Pit Bull called Sergeant Stubby fought 17 battles in WWI. He is the most decorated dog in military history, and the only dog ever to have been promoted during battle.
World-famous Search and Rescue (SAR) dogs Cheyenne, Dakota and Tahoe are all American Pit Bull Terriers. They have been involved in over 200 missions, including such high-profile cases as the search for Laci Peterson and the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. A Pit Bull called Popsicle, who was found as a puppy in a garbage bag stuffed in a freezer during a drug bust, helped the feds seize over 3,000 pounds of cocaine from a truck at the Mexican border a year later.
The APBT has also had a career in television and advertising. The Little Rascals’ canine member, Petey, was a Pit Bull. It is also the only breed to have been on the cover of Life Magazine three times.
Some of the best testimony to the great disposition of these dogs can be seen in the “Dogtown” series episode, “Saving the Michael Vick Dogs”. It follows four of the 22 toughest cases, which were sent to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary at Angel Canyon, Utah.
Here are some other sites with useful information about the American Pit Bull Terrier:
