Let’s Talk Pit Bulls! Did you know there is no such breed as a Pit Bull? It’s true.

Pitbull is a generic term that refers to “bully breeds” that include Bull Terriers like Spuds McKenzie who was well-known in Bud Light beer commercials, the American Staffordshire Terrier like Petey from the Little Rascals, and the American Bull Terrier. The difference between the two is physical characteristics. The American Staffordshire Terrier has a muscular boxy appearance, while the American Bull Terrier is a bit taller and sports a streamlined physique. The insertion of the word “Pit” can be used with any breed that has been trained to be aggressive with another dog in a pit. Imagine Fluffy, the standard Poodle, being labeled this way.

Pit Bull hysteria is fueled by a misunderstanding of the breed, rather than fact. These Terriers have gained, through no fault of their own, the same bad reputation garnered of German Shepherds and Rottweilers before them. As with humanity, early life experiences and harsh handling can lead to negative behaviors. Terriers residing in shelters, and available for adoption, are deemed "household" dogs. A household dog is one that lives within the home and has extensive social contact with family members and friends.

In contrast, a "resident dog" is a dog that is kept chained, or restrained, outside of the home. One can imagine the frustrating life of a dog that must exist in this lonely manner. Dogs are pack animals. No different from humans, they need their pack for a healthy, fulfilling, and well-adjusted life as their pack represents a family. As humans, we become their pack.

My husband and I have most often adopted Beagles/Hounds. We’ve had 5! Recently we lost our 17-year-old and decided to adopt a Terrier. Though I have worked with these breeds for 23 years, this is our first experience living with a so-called “Pittie.” We deviated from adopting our norm because of the gross numbers of this breed residing in the shelters. The experience has been unbelievable!

I hadn’t spent any time with Katie prior to adoption as fitting through my dog door was the only criteria. I chose her based on her size. She was cute, and deserving, but they all are so I took her home. We remain in awe of her desire to be a family member in our pack and feel so blessed by her existence in our world. Her present role has been comforting our existing Beagle as he mourns the loss of his 17-year-old sister. Want to adopt a “Pittie?” I can help you make your choicInterested in adoption? Call 234-706-5501. Pets are fully vetted, spay/neutered. Pay It Forward for Pets is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to 751 Delaware Ave., Akron, OH 44303. Visit us at www.payitforwardforpets.org

Pay it forward for Pets