Murders vs Maulings: what we fear does not reflect the facts

In 2010 and 2009, the most recent years for which reliable, fully-investigated information is available concerning dog bite fatalities, 33 and 31 humans respectively were fatally injured by dogs. Most of these dogs were resident dogs, socially isolated in backyards or on the end of chains; many of the fatalities involved unsupervised children left to wander outdoors or left alone inside with unfamiliar dogs. Many of the dogs had been forced to endure extreme abuse.

Sixty-four human lives is not insignificant, particularly from the perspective of the friends and family members left to pick up the pieces left after these tragedies. But it is not a large number considering the population of humans and dogs in the US (310 million and 70 million, respectively).

Thousands of years of evolution and biological fine-tuning have created a predisposition within humans to fear predator species - and that includes dogs. Media reports with gruesome details of dog attacks recognize this fear, capitalize on it, and perpetuate it. In particular, pit bull attacks will often make national news.

But what about human murder rates? Unless a murder is particularly horrific, murders often don't make the news. They certainly don't make national news. And the standard murder (for lack of a better term) does not initiate a violent emotional reaction and public outcry.

Indeed, it seems from media and citizen reactions, that there is much more to fear from the risk of a dog-bite fatality than a murder.

Of course, this is untrue. Here's a glimpse of the statistics for a few states.

State	2010 Murders	Scaled 2010 Murders*	Dog-bite fatalities (all breeds)	Dog-bite fatalities attributed to pit bull type dogs
Arizona	409	90.8	0	0
Florida	987	219.3	3	none reliably confirmed, 2 reported**
California	1809	402	7	2 (confirmed)
Texas	1249	277.6	2	none reliably confirmed, 1 reported
Washington	152	33.8	0	0

** of these two reports, one was reliably identified as not a pit bull type dog

State	2009 Murders	Scaled 2009 Murders*	Dog-bite fatalities (all breeds)	Dog-bite fatalities attributed to pit bull type dogs
Arizona	370	82.2	1	0
Florida	1034	229.7	2	0
California	1971	438	4	none reliably confirmed, 2 reported
Texas	1355	301.1	5	none reliably confirmed, 3 reported
Washington	194	43.1	0	0

*The scaled population takes into account the difference in total human vs total canine population nationally. There are approximately 4.5 times more humans than dogs in the US.

Thus, in 2009 and 2010 you were around 250 to 500 times more likely to be murdered by a fellow human than attacked and killed by a dog irrespective of breed. And, if human and dog populations were equal, you'd still be 60 to 100 times more likely to be murdered than mauled to death. Murders are rare occurrences. Dog bite fatalities are rare to the point of being statistically insignificant, particularly at the state instead of the national level. From a statistical perspective, they are purely chance occurrences.

Of the fatalities included in the chart, only four were caused by family dogs, only one of which was even debatably a pit bull type dog. So I will repeat the sentiment I will repeat until the day I die: if we treat our dogs like members of our family, they will always live up to their moniker as man's best friend. And yes, this includes our pit bulls.

Sissy, Sinister, and Sadistic: Stereotypes harm all breeds

Three different stereotypes, three different problems 

Before I rescued pit bulls, I rescued poodles. The question I heard time and time again was issued with a incredulous chuckle: "What do poodles need rescuing from, too much pampering??" Media portrayals of poodles show dogs covered in jewels and gems, immaculately groomed, and perfectly content to sit around on velvet cushions being pampered. But poodles are sporting dogs, originally bred to hunt. The Standard Poodle remains a canine athlete, with incredible levels of intelligence and an astute sensitivity that I fully appreciate.

Time and time again, I rescued poodles from owners who did not realize that a Standard Poodle is a large, active dog who will run a household if given the opportunity. Dylan routinely outperforms my pit bull fosters on hikes, bike rides, and runs. He can leap to heights over my head. Do not underestimate the athleticism of a poodle!

I have had pit bull people scoff at my boy Dylan and suggest that owning and managing a pit bull is on a totally different level than owning and managing a poodle. I do not like the suggestion and poodles are not "real dogs" and do not present challenges or require exercise or training. Because they do.  I train my foster pit bulls the same way I trained and rehabilitated Dylan: through positive reinforcement methods. 

While it would not be fair to say that poodles - or any other breed - are proportionately poisoned by cruel, violent owners or suffer abuse at a level that truly is epidemic like pit bull type dogs, they are abused and neglected and treated with indifference and they do suffer. I have seen poodles come in emaciated, so matted their gender cannot be determined, with teeth rotting from their faces. It happens, and it should not be forgotten. 

My other resident dog is Ted, a dog unfortunate enough to be born big and black. Black dogs are the last dogs to be adopted at shelters. They do not photograph well. There are certain negative stereotypes associated with black. And, for some reason, black bores people. 

We live in a culture where physical appearance is often valued first and above other more important traits. This is a significant part of why we perpetuate dog breeds. Most of us don't need a dog designed for a purpose -- we just need to fellow couch surfer or foot warmer. But we are drawn to a specific look. Very often dogs end up in rescue because that specific look came with a specific set of personality traits and behaviors very unsuited to the surrendering family. 

I urge pit bull advocates in particular to stay away from glorifying pit bulls by defaming other breeds. This is unnecessary and hypocritical. I know it is done with good intentions and because breed seems very relevant when the pit bull "breed" is singled out. But what advocates want is equality. 

All dogs have value. If we want pit bulls to be treated as equals, then we need to consistently advocate for them as equals -- by embracing and loving all dogs and shutting down all stereotypes and overgeneralized remarks. They are never acceptable, even if they don't seem overtly harmful. 

Kirby's Journey: The first leg

Tough Love is not a large rescue. But our volunteers all put in far more than requested of them and they do with with grace, efficiency and passion. So, we make it work. When my volunteer Ashley sent me the photo of Kirby, I knew we would find a way to help him. I didn't care what it took or what it cost. 


This was the right decision. 


Immediately, people flooded in to help Kirby live. He has been with us less than 24 hours and already has touched countless lives. I received the following email from Kirby's transport, Jamie, and she has given me permission to share her experience helping Kirby. Kirby's story is about a dog. But it also is about the people with whom he interacts. I hope sharing their moments with you will make an impact. 


Hello Gemma:

I just wanted to say Thank You for allowing me to be a part of such a eye opening experience.  My birthday is on Sunday and I wanted to do something that I have never done before and that would make a difference.  When I logged into Facebook Thursday night and saw Kirby I was drawn to his picture and knew in my heart I had to help.  My husbands initial reaction when I woke him up was NO.  But I was determined and told him "fine, I'll make the drive myself".  He knew I would not take no for an answer so he was on board very shortly after that and that is when I committed to you that I would help. 

My pets are rescues but they were abandoned at the dog park so I did not have to go far to pick them up.  I have never been to a pound or animal control before.  I only saw that on television.  

When we were waiting in the front to speak with someone we could hear all the dog barks for help and it was heartbreaking then and my husband put his hand on my shoulder and told me to brace myself.  The woman up front thought that it was nice he was already named and she said dogs in his condition do not walk in and she was amazed that Kirby walked in.  

We got the paperwork and was told to drive around the back.  The woman at the front walked out with us and took a deep breath and said "wow, we are burning paper today".  When we drove around back we decided to wait in the parking lot right next to the building.  I certainly did not want to go in and see all the other animals we could not help.  We could hear more yelps for help and I wished that I could rescue them all.  I looked and saw the contraption they were "burning paper" in and noticed a wheel barrel next to it with filled black garbage bags in it.  I whispered to my husband "That doesn't look like paper to me".  He whispered back "I know, it's not".  

Then she came out with Kirby.  She carried him because he was so tired from eating that she did not want him to walk.  My husband swept him our of her arms and turned him to me.  He lifted his head and I knew then he was a fighter.  I rubbed his head and started to cry.  We got him in the car and when I sat down in the front seat I began to bawl.  It was amazing and heartbreaking all at the same time that this animal was alive.  I was so taken aback that this live animal in such horrible condition wanted to be next to us wanted to move around and it was obvious he had not given up.  The entire experience was surreal.  

Kirby immediately after leaving the shelter 

The vet was so nice and they gave him extra treats.  All his skin and bones added up to a pathetic 27.8 lbs. but Kirby is not pathetic, he is a walking miracle.  At the vet, he got cleaned up a bit around the rear end, ticks removed, nails trimmed, water under the skin, he walked out of the vet on his own and got right back into the car where he began his final leg of the journey to his foster home.  He did not want me to stop petting his head but I finally got him to relax and he slept for the next hour.  

Kirby finally falls asleep

When we passed him off to Phil, my husband woke Kirby up and scooped him up from the back seat.  As he was bringing him to Phil's truck he was wagging his tail again.  I have no doubt that we will be getting updates of Kirby as he puts weight on and gets the life back into him.  He is a fighter and I am very glad that I was a part of his second chance.  I know you will find a great home for him once he gets healthy.  I know that his wonderful personality will only shine more once he is better.  I have a great feeling about this little pup and I want you to let his forever owners know about his journey. This is a very special dog.  

This experience was very emotionally taxing on me but one I will never forget.  I am sure I will be able to help in the future and when I am able to I will let you know.  Keep up the great work Gemma.  You are making a difference one awesome pup at a time! :) 

It's not just how they're raised

Well-meaning "pit bull" lovers consistently supply variations of the phrase: "Pit bulls are great dogs if they are raised properly and socialized from a young age." I cannot say this phrase is untrue, and I certainly encourage folks with puppies to train and socialize early and with love, but it inherently suggests that pit bull type dogs rescued from poor or unknown backgrounds and upbringings cannot be reliable family members.

This is untrue.

More important than a dog's past is a dog's present. Dogs raised from puppyhood, lovingly socialized and cared for, may still be dog selective or develop a behavioral issue. Dogs are individuals, influenced by biology as well as environment as well as unknown factors and interactions; dog owners generally can only control for environment. What really matters is how the dog is managed, which must be based on how each dog actually responds, interacts, and behaves, regardless of that dog's known or unknown upbringing.

Dog bite incidents (involving any breed) do not occur because the dog had a bad first owner. They occur because their present owner failed to contain the dog, or watch a child properly, or recognize the limits of their own pet. I'm not saying a dog's history is totally irrelevant, but I am saying it can be neutralized by a good owner.

Although many news reports of dog attacks include phrases like "the dog bite was unprovoked" or "the dog has never shown signs of aggression until..." Proper investigation (or even overlooked comments in the news reports themselves) indicate that these phrases rarely are accurate. With nearly negligible exceptions, dogs do not seriously injure human beings without having a history of behavioral signals. Whether or not these signals are noticed and/or covered up by an owner who clearly has reasons to lie (the laws favor folks with no prior knowledge of a dog's aggressive propensities) is indicative of the dog-owner relationship.

Most of the dogs in our program came into shelters as strays. We very often are asked: What do you know about his past? Truthfully, we rarely know anything. We do not know where they were born. We do not know if they were hit. We do not know if they were exposed to other dogs, cats, or kids. What we do know is what we can observe, and it is not difficult to make adjustments to a dog's routine, care, socialization, or training based on what we see. We've been placing dogs with unknown histories in loving family environments for years without a single incident arising therefrom.

Farrah was used for breeding and was reserved until she found someone to trust; now she loves everyone she meets. Jade came in to our program totally shut down, but also blossomed when she learned to trust.

In our rescue, and among my friends, I personally know many dogs who have had their truly horrific pasts confirmed with reasonable certainty, and, yet, they are absolutely wonderful pets who get along great with people, other dogs, even cats and critters.

Time and time again, these dogs remind me how resilient, flexible, and forgiving dogs really are. Their histories merely highlight the fact that they are individuals. All dogs are. And they all deserve to be treated as such.

Dogs live in the present. So should we. Please adopt a rescued "pit bull" today!

The pit falls and potential positives of labeling a rescued "pit bull"

I recently stumbled across a post on happypitbull.com that talked about the general nature of the term "pit bull" in today's world. The post was dead on, but got me thinking about the liberal use of the term in shelter and rescue environments and its impact on these dogs, the "pit bull" term itself, and breed legislation.

I believe a breed label is marginally useful no matter what breed we may be labeling. I wholeheartedly believe that every dog is an individual, and that, particularly in adult dogs, breed itself is far less relevant and consistent than people may believe -- especially when looking at behaviors relevant to potential adopters (tolerance with children, sociability, activity level,  for example). In the abstract, any individual dog of any breed may thrive in any one particular environment.

At the government shelters I work with, each dog is labeled by predominant "breed," something I take issue with, although I certainly am not alone. A shelter volunteer at Pima Animal Care Center in Tucson, AZ, has expressed concern over the shelter's labeling practices -- concern that has been ignored by her superiors, who continue to label just about anything a "pit bull mix." Such munificent labeling certainly is inappropriate.

Perhaps such labeling simply follows a public trend to know the breed they own. Petfinder.com, adoptapet.com, and rescueme.org require a dog to be labeled a specific breed -- preferably two -- and, although "mixed breed" is an option, it does not attract hits. People seem to like "breeds," and I want to get my dogs adopted. So I label.

All these dogs were labeled "pit bulls" by shelters from which we pull.

Historically, shelters simply labeled dogs of uncertain ancestry as "mixed breeds" or "mongrels," and adopters chose a dog based on the physical and personality characteristics they appreciated. This seems, in theory and devoid of context, wise. But, we live in a world where your dog legally can be taken from you and killed if an arbitrary actor sees fit to label him/her a "pit bull." Is it really fair to surprise adopters in this fashion simply because we hate what the label has come to mean?

At a seminar for rescue workers I recently attended, we were told never to guess or make assumptions about a dog's past or a dog's present preferences, and simply to list the facts: what we'd observed, what background information may have been given or confirmed. Ideally, this also should be the case with breed descriptors.

When a dog is labeled a "pit bull," the dog often is automatically stripped of its individuality -- even by reputable pit bull rescues. Some, for example, will not adopt "pit bulls" into homes with dogs of the same gender as pit bulls have a greater propensity to aggress toward other dogs. But many "pit bulls" likely have no ancestry tied to a particular breed. All "pit bull" rescues want to set their dogs up for success. How do we make sense of and balance these complications?

Unfortunately, even for a rescue like my own, where we know the pit falls of labeling, it is hard not to label. Indeed, the label is often in the name of the rescue itself, something I struggled with when choosing a moniker. Ultimately, I decided I wanted my organization to be readily identified as a safe harbor for any dog unfortunate enough to be labeled a "pit bull" by a shelter, as, really, all those dogs, no matter their breed, are that much less likely to find their way into loving homes. Tough Love Pit Bull Rescue does not assist American Pit Bull Terriers or American Staffordshire Terriers. We assist the dogs in greatest need of help. And these dogs are pit bulls.

The "pit bull" is a very popular type of dog in America. Imagine how many "shepherds" or "retrievers" or "spaniels" there would be if we grouped all distinct breeds and their mixes into one generalized category like we've done with pit bulls. It is not surprising then, that "pit bulls" make up the bulk of dogs killed at many shelters, or appear more frequently as the actors in bite incidents (yes, I know this is a loaded statement, but for simplicity's sake, let's assume media bias is irrelevant). Last week a shelter employee told my co-director that a full 50 of the dogs at their facility (which houses 300 dogs at capacity) were "pit bulls." That's a lot of pit bulls.

The problems with labeling "pit bulls" in shelters are twofold (1) As discussed above, "pit bulls" are much less likely to be adopted than other "breeds" and (2) liberal labeling of mixed-breed dogs as "pit bulls" leaves these dogs susceptible to breed discriminatory legislation and gives BDL proponents an argument to expand the definition of a "pit bull" legally. We certainly do not want to give teeth to any discriminatory movement by handing them a very large, very general conglomeration of "pit bulls" that they now must control. So, really, is the problem with such generic labeling simply an issue of attached social implications?

In the long run, though, I think the "pit bull" generalization will backfire on BDL proponents and prove legally useful in contesting BDL. That is, if the term is used as liberally as it is, it eventually will lose all appreciable meaning or significance. It will no longer be solely attached to the American Pit Bull Terrier or American Staffordshire Terrier, or any other breed with a history of baiting or fighting (a point courts continue to cling to). If this were to happen, there would be no viable legal argument that a "pit bull" is distinct from other dogs based on a set of historic and present-day characteristics.

So, I posit this: Is it possible for the "pit bull" label to be dually helpful and detrimental?

At the end of the day, at least here at Tough Love, a "pit bull" is still a dog and will always be treated as an individual. So, even if every dog of every breed were labeled a "pit bull," it wouldn't change how we interact with our rescues. Thus, concerning our interactions with individual dogs, the label matters only when we allow it to matter.

And when dealing with everyone else, perhaps the solution is not to discourage labeling, but to educate and to transform the label into something different than it is today -- something positive.

To My Volunteers

In the eight years that I've been involved with dog rescue organizations, I've seen some truly terrible things. Just when I think I've seen the foulest crime against a living organism, something comes along to one-up that. I won't sugar coat it: rescuing can be emotionally trying, downright defeating work at times. It can be a constant reminder of the enormity of the problem at hand and the nearly insurmountable amount of work to be done. When you are working with pit bull type dogs, this burden is larger still.

Working in rescue ensures that you cannot remain safely ensconced in the world of the typical or average. You will learn to operate as a reflection of extremes. Encountering the perverse capabilities of humans falls on one end of the spectrum. But I don't want to reflect any further on this today. I want to reflect on the other extreme: the mind-blowing outpouring of human goodness that I experience every single day as a part of my rescue work.

I've faced my share of struggles in life. I worked hard to get where I am. And I wholeheartedly believe that most people are essentially decent. And most people want to help. Now, not all people are leaders, and not all people possess the initiative to translate desire into action, but it's enough that the desire exists. The hallmark trait of a good leader is the ability to inspire action.

When I started Tough Love Pit Bull Rescue in 2008 (as Revamped Rovers, with no breed focus) I worked pretty much alone. And I stayed small. But in August 2011, I joined forces with two inspirational people, with strengths completely complimentary to my own, to help the most challenging canine demographic out there: the pit bulls. We've been growing quickly. Kris and Susan are amazing and they have helped me nurture and build upon my vision. But, we have formal agreements in place to run the organization, so it's technically expected (although not any less appreciated and I certainly recognize the immense amount of work they've invested in our projects).

What has really blown my mind about the Tough Love community are my volunteers.

Now, working in rescue I've collaborated with many skilled and productive people. But there is something about my Tough Love Volunteers that is extra special. When I make a request, that request is doubled. When I have an idea, I see immediate action.

Beautiful "adopt me" bandannas made by Nicole 

When we encounter a problem, I see instant initiative via novel solutions.

Three of about 20 money jars Judy made and distributed for the rescue. Judy also is organizing a garage sale for us. 

The zeal and energy my volunteers consistently emanate is just awesome. I have never been so impressed by a group of people. They make my job infinitely easier.

I'd like to think I keep up pretty well on my "thank you's" but if ever I don't, please remember, volunteers, that I am eternally grateful for all you've given me. Tough Love would not exist without your collective efforts, and I mean that. Because, when you help me help dogs, I receive the ipso facto assistance to these needy animals, but I also receive constant affirmation that people are inherently good. You give me the energy and motivation to continue forward. We are so much greater than ourselves when we work together and will will do proportionately greater things. What you all have given me is priceless.

Cover-a-Bull: Who will insure your home when you're living with a pit bull type dog

We've had at least one adopter in the past couple months who had some trouble securing home owner's insurance with the prospect of their new pit bull family member. I decided to make some calls to Arizona insurance companies and have compiled a list of companies and their coverage options for pit bull owners.

The two companies that maintained they do not cover multiple "vicious" breeds handed out that information as a way to justify not covering pit bull type dogs -- an interesting reaction, but certainly not something redeeming in my book.

I'd like to add that, for the record, with the exception of Progressive and Mr. Insurance, every agent I talked to from a company that did not insure pit bulls stated: "It's not the breed, it's how they're raised. They have a bad reputation they don't deserve." Many had positive pit bull experiences they shared with me. One woman even told me she had nightmares after Michael Vick was arrested. So, that, at least, is something in my book.

Who will cover you?

1. Country Financial (520.298.2100) -- YES Kent, the agent, was very nice.
2. Mike Pierce Insurance -- NO pit bulls, Akitas, doberman pinschers, or rottweilers
3. Farmers (via the Insurance House) -- NO on't provide liability coverage for pit bulls
4. State Farm (520.323.2253) -- YES
5. American Family -- NO
6. Geico (as a broker for multiple insurance companies) -- YES but limited to $100,000 in liability and $1,000 in medical
7. ABC Insurance (broker) -- currently NO but she will call me back if that changes
8. Allstate -- NO
9. Mr. Insurance, Inc. -- Representative didn't know, and she was rude. I got a call back, and the second representative indicated NO "vicious" breeds. They will, however issue a policy on your home, but will not give liability coverage.
10. Arizona Home Insurance -- NO
11. Progressive (as a broker) -- NO, and she was extremely rude
12. Nationwide -- NO
13. Liberty Mutual -- YES, but conditioned on (1) current on shots (2) spayed/neutered (3) the dog is not living with kids under 12 (4) not within 1/4 mile of a school and (5) no prior incidents; also the agent indicated that established insureds will be given preference.

If you know of any other companies in Arizona that do cover pit bulls, please let me know and I will add them to the list. I will compile a list for Washington in the coming weeks.

I have one suggestion, as well. Even if you do not have a pit bull type dog, choose a company that does not discriminate against pit bulls. Urge friends to do the same. Financial loss speaks more loudly than words to any company. Act, and you will change the world.

Take a Pit Bull Moment

Operating a pit bull rescue and working as a breed advocate has its challenges. And it certainly can be lonely. But, when I feel down or frustrated, I step back, inhale deeply, and take a Pit Bull Moment. A Pit Bull Moment is a brief moment in time where we advocates shut out those constantly whirring thoughts in our minds, and the opinions of opponents that rattle around like so many marbles in a jar. It's a moment where we take the time to hug the dogs that we know on a personal level to be sweet and loving. It's during these moments that I experience a renewed rush of passion for what I do.

I'd like to share some of my most recent Pit Bull Moments:

These are the moments where I just don't care who hates my foster dogs before even meeting them. Or who has banned them from their city limits. Or who crosses the street with their children when they come near. Because, in these moments, I forget about all those people. And I forget about all the work left to do before people understand what I understand. These little moments are the reasons I do what I do. And you know what? It's always worth it. Because the dogs are always worth it.

Somebody's Trash (Farrah's Story)

Farrah was found as a stray in a rural part of Washington state. She had full milk bags but no puppies. Farrah ended up at animal control where she waited in her little concrete cell for someone to love her. And she waited. Although Farrah was a staff favorite, always greeting workers with her little piggy tail twirling in excitement, adopters chose smaller dogs. They chose younger dogs. They chose different breeds. Because Farrah is a pit bull, no one took her home. And so she waited, for me.

Farrah, the day I rescued her

But I don't want to talk about Farrah's past. Because Farrah was discarded by her sorry excuse for an owner like a piece of trash. To me, she is a treasure.

It's hard to explain the bond I have with Farrah, and I'm not sure why she, among the many, many dogs I've fostered, is so very special to me. But she is. Farrah likes to rest her head on my knee when I'm working. She stares up at me with her soulful amber eyes and there's a longing in her gaze that often moves me to tears. I think it's because Farrah has a beautiful soul.

Those eyes 

There are two types of dog owners: those who view dogs as utilitarian in nature -- good for breeding, guarding, or work of some sort; and those who view dogs as complex, feeling individuals -- family. I'm sure these groups may overlap at times, but it is only those people who qualify for the second category who will ever know their dog's soul.

Very often rescue dogs come to me with starving souls. They may have been fairly well cared for physically (or maybe not), but they routinely have been deprived of any emotional gratification -- they are starved for affection, love, and trust. This is what feeds a dog's soul. Dogs like Farrah come into rescue running on empty, and take every moment they can to soak up as much love as they can. Farrah's desire for love is so urgent it's almost palpable.

It is not only this desire, but what Farrah gives in return that drives me to go the extra mile for her. It is this exchange that motivates me to unroll my sleeping bag and spend the night on the floor of our office instead of in my comfy bed upstairs. Truthfully, though, nothing I can do for her will ever measure up to the loyalty and devotion she gives to me.

Farrah is not the most striking dog in the world. She is the dog you pass by at the shelter without a second glance. She is brown and stout and still needs to lose a couple post-puppy pounds. But her inner beauty is so captivating that it completely overpowers her "imperfections"; Farrah just shines. Farrah is the kind of dog who does everything you ask and more. And she does it with joy. Farrah is the kind of dog who follows you into the bathroom so she can have a few more seconds of head scratches. Farrah is the kind of dog who watches at the window for hours until you return home to her. But these are things you couldn't know unless you took the time to learn them. Many people prefer puppies because they are blank slates ready for filling; they are simple. I prefer dogs because they are complex, developed, and they have wisdom to share if you pay attention to such things.

All dogs have the potential to teach us something about ourselves just as much as we have the potential to teach them. It is this complex interweaving of relationships that founds the powerful bonds we have with our dogs. It is a respect for and use of this relationship that perpetuates these bonds.

I wish I could tell Farrah I will be leaving her one day -- or, rather, she will be leaving me, on to better things. It breaks my heart to know, as I walk away, she will probably  be wondering why she can't come with me. But I know Farrah will be home forever when she leaves me. And that home will be a place where she can shine forever.

Kill all the Pit Bulls: How to Deal with Antagonism as a Breed Advocate

One of my wonderful new volunteers, Nicole, related the following story to me today:

It was at lunch today.  I wasn't eating (we had a meeting where they fed us a big breakfast) and I was on my phone texting you, look at my messages on FB, and thinking about the Roxie situation in general.  My close friend,who knows me well, asked me if I was doing dog stuff.  I said yes, and when she asked about it I started telling the story of Roxie and how I could possibly be transporting her this weekend.  They called me crazy, in a teasing but nice way, and then we continued talking until my coworker, Lindsey, asked me what type of dog she was.  I responded with pit mix and she replied, "Oh they can put her down.  I don't care about pit bulls."  I must of had a stunned look on my face because then she proceeded to explain that her dog was attacked by a pit bull, who was owned by someone she knew who was then in jail.  I told her I was very sorry about that, but that it was one dog and it was safe to say that the owner probably wasn't quality.  I tried to express my opinion that it is more "bad owners" than bad dogs but I was pretty much drowned out by a chorus of pit bull related horror stories and reasons why none of them would ever have a pit bull.  I tried to explain my opinions on the stereotypes and misinformation regarding the breed, but at that point I was so upset and flustered that I ended up just leaving the room.  

Obviously, for a pit bull advocate, especially a new one, such remarks can sting (I suppose they always sting) and it can be difficult to figure out how to proceed in a controlled, professional manner. I talk to a lot of people about pit bull type dogs and for the most part I've met with receptive audiences. Here are a few simple steps to help you stay on track as an advocate. 

1. Be educated. Know the key arguments against pit bull type dogs and know the facts that shut down these arguments. Make sure your facts come from reliable sources. Prepare simple, concise statements that summarize these facts. Don't spout out things you haven't fact-checked, even if it means you don't "win" on every point. Many points are red herrings anyway. Offer to provide additional information, and then hold true to your offer.

Real life example: Comment - Studies have shown that pit bulls are much more likely to attack a person than any other breed. Answer - Please get me the names of those studies. To my knowledge, no reliable dog bite statistics exist, and the studies that claim to make determinations on pit bull aggressiveness are based on media reports and are not scientific or authoritative. In fact, the authors of the most prominent dog bite study available have clearly stated that their data is incomplete and that it should not be used to extrapolate any conclusions about the temperament of any breed nor should it be used to pass any breed discriminatory legislation. Reliable research on canine temperament consistently demonstrates that pit bull type dogs score high on temperament tests and are less likely to aggress toward humans than many popular breeds. 

2. Be authoritative. If someone is wrong, then they're wrong, and you have a right to correct them unequivocally. Be firm without being a jerk. 

Real life example: Comment - well, pit bulls have locking jaws. Answer - No, they don't. Pit bulls are mammals, and no mammal has a jaw with the ability to lock. Pit bull jaw structure has been studied and was found to be exactly the same as all other dog breeds.

3. Don't diss. Positive pit bull research is abundant, so there is no reason to insult other dog breeds or other people, even if they do it first. Advocates present facts (and perhaps conclusions based on those facts); they do not attack dissenters. 

Real life example: Comment -- Pit bulls are the ugliest breed of dog and I don't know why anyone would want one. Wrong Answer -- Look at pugs with those bulging eyes, or Cocker Spaniels with those stupid ears! Right Answer -- Hey, you don't have to own a pit bull or even like pit bulls; I respect that. But physical appearance has nothing to do with a dog's temperament. 

4. Don't yell. Keep your emotions under control. Anti-pit bull people like the term "pit bull nutters" to describe advocates. Do not give any teeth to that designation. Yelling won't win you followers but it will ensure that open-minded people will take you less seriously. 

Real life example: I've been called all sorts of terrible names by people who are raving. I just present the facts, then stand back and let them discredit themselves with their ranting (it nearly always works). I look that much more credible in comparison. 

5. Walk away. You can't win every battle. And some folks are just too stubborn to change. Don't waste your time on those people. There's a reason extreme views are called "extreme"; most folks are moderate and open to good information. Spend your time discussing issues with that large group. As long as we have the majority on our side, we're winning. 

6. Have support. Pit bull advocacy can be trying, lonely work. Make sure you have a network of friends, family, and peers who you can turn to for consolation, affirmation, or vent(ilation). 

Real life example: My family and friends are always willing to lend an ear. I also have made connections across the country with fellow pit bull advocates and I discuss issues with them regularly. 

Foster Mom Christina tells Duke's Story

One Friday night, Brian was headed out to pick up some takeout. A few seconds after he walked out the door I got a phone call saying, "Honey, there's a dog outside the house." I went out front and there was Duke lapping up sprinkler water in our front yard. He was skinny, didn't have a collar, and had a patch of fur scratched off his face. We fed him and brought him into our backyard and he perked up right away. 

Duke, soon after we rescued him 

Duke is all puppy - he'll sleep for a few hours then want to play. He loves to run around with other dogs - one of his favorites is a young female across the street. They will run around together as long as you let them. He loves rawhide bones, dental bones, stuffed animals, floppy toys that he can shake around, and pretty much anything that makes noise - including empty water bottles and soda cans! He likes tug-of-war, but hasn't figured out how to fetch yet. He loves to play in the sprinklers, but is not a big fan of baths! 

Duke and Duchess with Christina

Since he has been in our house we have taught him to sit on command and how to walk on a leash. He has also gotten all his vaccinations and been neutered. He still needs help learning more doggie manners since he's just a big rambunctious pup. He's a quick learner though!Duke is a big lover. He loves to sit in laps and will climb into bed with you if you let him. He gives lots of kisses - especially on faces and toes.

Some of Duke's famous kisses!

Duke also knows how to use his doggie door to go potty and he is crate trained. We put him in his crate when we aren't home and at night. The only time that he fusses in his crate is if he hasn't gotten enough attention during the day or he has to potty.

I think Duke would do well either as the only pet or in a household with other animals. He is not dog aggressive and loves to play. Ultimately the most important thing to me is that he find a forever home with a family that will give him lots of love! I think his sweet face and disposition would be a positive addition to any home.

Duke today! Still looking for that perfect forever home!

What Harry Potter Can Teach Us About Dogs

Oh yes, I did go there...! After a decade-long relationship with Harry Potter, I admit I’m not quite ready to let go. As I’ve aged along with Harry and his friends, my interests have developed and I can’t help but notice that JK Rowling’s commentary applies to so many facets of life. Also, I really like metaphors because I'm a huge nerd at heart. As you’ve probably figured out by now, I’ve become involved with dog rescue and welfare issues. Even here, I can apply Rowling’s lessons. Here’s what I think the Harry Potter series can teach us about man’s best friend.

1. Pure blood does not always correlate with aptitude.

Snobs like the Malfoy family gauge the worth of their friends and family members on their ability to track their lineage via old wizarding blood lines. But some of the most competent wizards in the series are muggle-born – Hermione Granger and Lily Potter come to mind – or are half bloods  – Severus Snape and Dean Thomas fit the bill here.  As Sirius points out, wizards had to marry muggles, or they’d die out – the gene pool simply wasn’t diverse enough to support a growing population without inbreeding. And, in the wizarding world, inbreeding can lead to pretty big problems – just ask the Gaunts.

No offense to whippet fans, but I see a definite resemblance...

2. Big black dogs get a bad rap

An omen of death in the wizarding world, only the highly logical Hermione was quick to scoff at the idea that a big, black dog was one of the worst things a wizard could hope to encounter. As it turns out, the spectral dog that haunted Harry through much of the Prisoner of Azkaban was none other than his soon-redeemed godfather and best friend of his dad. Turns out, black dogs can be good news and faithful guardians.

To fear or revere...judge by personality not color 

3. A tough exterior can house the biggest heart

Let’s face it: Hagrid is the pit bull of the Harry Potter world. He’s brawny, he’s misunderstood, and he’s got a heart of gold if you bother to give him a chance. Hagrid’s highly sensitive to human approval – remember how long he hid out in his hut after Rita Skeeter published that nasty article about him? Raise your voice at a pit bull and watch his goofy smile slide right off his face and dissolve into a look of utter shame. Although Hagrid might be a bit unorthodox, he is the symbol of loyalty throughout the series, with Dumbledore entrusting him with critical errands and information.

If Hagrid were a dog, he'd totally be brindle...

Of course, Hagrid’s part giant, and heaven forbid you be even part giant, because, as Ron explains, “they’re not very nice.” And although there’s nothing wrong with Hagrid, and once you meet him you’ll figure that out quickly, Hagrid isn’t exactly keen to have his heritage scrutinized before he’s even given a chance to prove it wrong. Turns out Hagrid’s brother, Grawp, a full-blooded giant, can be a pretty stand up fellow as well, if you’ve earned his loyalties.

4. If you get bitten, it was probably your fault 

In the Harry Potter series, you’re liable to get bitten by animals, plants, and objects that would qualify as inanimate in the muggle world. As Malfoy found out the hard way, failing to follow proper procedures when dealing with non-human critters can earn you a trip to the hospital wing. But, even in the wizarding world, the law seems to use some sort of strict liability scheme for animal bites, and an animal caught up in a legal battle generally is blamed for acting exactly how an animal should behave, and poor Buckbeak was sentenced to death for scratching up Malfoy’s arm.

5. Indifference and neglect can cause as much damage as abuse

Hermione was first to point out a sentiment later echoed by Albus Dumbledore himself – treating non-human creatures like objects, starving them of affection and basic respect – can ultimately bite you in the butt. Perhaps Kreacher was a foul little house elf, but it was Sirius’s callous attitude toward him that inspired Kreacher’s betrayal.

6. Love is the greatest power of all

I’ve worked enough with rescued dogs to know that, almost always love is the key ingredient needed to fix a dog. A new foster asked me the other day, after she picked up her new foster puppy, “What do I need to do for her? I don’t know what I’m doing!” And I said, “Just love her.” Within hours, she was sending me pictures of a joyous puppy rather than an utterly defeated little creature. Time and time again I’ve seen simple acts of human compassion and kindness completely rehabilitate a dog. Harry Potter conquered Voldemort using this deceptively simple power. Let’s remember to use it with our own dogs. 

Why I Rescue (And Always Will)

When I was preparing to get my first dog – waaay back when I was 20 – I didn’t know much about rescues. I wanted a purebred dog and that was that. So I made a list of breeds I wanted and scrutinized the breeds in true Type-A fashion. I knew I wanted a big dog – a very big dog; my favorite breed was the Doberman Pinscher, but I was afraid that wasn’t quite big enough (90 pounds). I seriously obsessed over this list. But that truth was, any time I saw a puppy anywhere, I wanted it. And I really do think that’s how most people are – we get some notion in our heads of what we want without stopping to consider if that’s what we need or what we will want in 5 years. But the fact of the matter is, we want a dog who will love us and comfort us and just be there. And, really, any dog can do that – that’s what dogs were built for. 

So I’m going to delve a little deeper into my story in the hopes that my experiences will inspire you, when looking for your next dog, to go to a shelter or a rescue instead of a breeder.

My Rescued Dogs

I never got the chance to buy my first dog because my first dog found me. Ted was a stray; fortune tossed him in my path. I’d delayed my scheduled gym session because I was immersed in the freshly-released Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. So, thanks J.K. Rowling. My then boyfriend finally death-marched me into the car and we set off. It was July and sweltering out. As we zoomed down Stone Avenue in Tucson, we saw a lonely black shape lumbering across the road; cars were veering to avoid him. I begged Ex-Boyfriend to stop. He did. I called the dog over, and he immediately came, tongue lolling and tail wagging. We loaded him into the truck and headed home. I never did make it to the gym that day.

Ted's first picture, July 2005 

I decided to call the dog Ted – the first name off the top of my head – and started looking for his owner. We never found that owner. Ted’s been with me for over six years now. He was my first dog and, thus, my guinea pig; through trial and error I learned how to be a responsible dog owner. I bought books on training dogs and explored various techniques together with Ted. I think I did ok. Ted’s getting older and grayer, but so am I. In those years, we’ve shared so many memories. He’s traveled across the country with me more times than I care to count. He’s seen two boyfriends come and go and one come to stay (probably hehe). He’s put himself between me and danger. He’s made me laugh every single day with his ridiculously expressive eyebrows, his “talking,” and his various quirks and habits.

Ted in 2010 

My second dog was a Doberman – my dream dog. Only the dream turned out to be a nightmare. Aiden was a 100-pound red, cropped and docked show stopper. I loved him. My sister loved him. Ted hated him. I had to watch them like hawks the first three weeks because Ted was constantly trying to dominate Aiden; fortunately Aiden put up with it, because Ted certainly wouldn’t have come out top dog otherwise.

Aiden, March 2007

But Aiden was riddled with problems. He was very underweight and bore the signs of a dog who had lived outside, unloved and uncared for. We soon discovered that he was unpredictably aggressive toward humans. I tried and tried to work with him but his problems got worse. I consulted behaviorists and they all told me his problems were extreme and that he’d always be unreliable. I called the rescue and asked what to do. They told me I could bring him back and he’d spend his life in an outdoor cage by himself or I could choose to put him down. I choose to put him down. I couldn’t stand the thought of him there, alone, every single day until he died. I also knew, if he ever seriously injured someone, he’d further jeopardize the reputation of his breed. I know some people will judge me for my decision, and I’ve accepted that. But I also believe that death is a very personal thing, and that we should try not to judge people acting from their hearts. 

It was the most difficult decision in my life, and I regret it. Killing an animal is a terrible, heart-wrenching decision to make. Sitting with that animal and watching him die is worse. I remember sitting there, with his head in my lap, my sister sitting with us, and both of us bawling our eyes out. He had been sedated and his movements had gradually gotten clumsier. I couldn’t stand it – this magnificently beautiful dog, reduced to an uncoordinated mess. They administered the lethal dose of anesthetic, and about 15 seconds later, told me he was “gone.” But as his last breath left his body, he convulsed and jerked around before he lay still at last. I will never forget that.

It’s been over four years since I killed Aiden, but I still can’t tell his story without crying. I run over and over in my mind what happened, wonder if I’d tried one more method or talked to one more person, he could have been saved. I feel like I gave up on him. I killed my own dog. And I will never get over it. Aiden didn’t deserve the life he lived; he no longer trusted humans and reacted violently when he felt it was appropriate. That was not his fault. It was a human’s fault. Looking back, I am comforted only in knowing that when Aiden died, he was sleek and had put on over 20 pounds, he was loved, and he left this world in the arms of people who cared about him. Although I’ve often questioned my decision to put Aiden down, I’ve never regretted adopting him. He deserved a second chance. I only wish I could have given him a better one. Although Aiden's story is sad, I prefer to remember his moments when he showed us the shadow of the dog he could have been. Because he could be very loving and he had hilarious habits: he had a whole barrel of stuffed bears and he'd carry the barrel outside and carefully arrange his bears then sit among them like a proud mother (then one day he ate all the bears...!). Aiden was a good dog. He was marred by bad people.

If I could speak to Aiden, I'd tell him: Aiden, I am sorry. Sorry I could not help you and sorry I gave up on you. I was not ready for you and that cost you your life. The work I do now is in your memory. You are always in my heart. 

Aiden, with my sister, the day after we adopted him.

I’d like to stop here and note that, in all my years in rescue, Aiden was the only dog I could not rehabilitate. He was the only dog with severe human-directed aggression issues that I encountered. It was such an unlikely situation, so sometimes I can’t help wondering if it happened for a reason. I know Aiden’s death is a big part of what inspired me to rescue and to work with a misunderstood and ostracized breed: the pit bull. Despite my experience with Aiden, I stand by my belief that saving a life is a risk worth taking. Every time. 

After Aiden passed away, I was broken. My sister was broken. I contacted the founder of Arizona Poodle Rescue and confided in her what I had done. She responded with genuine sympathy and empathy and for that I am eternally grateful. She asked me if I was ready to foster. Three weeks after I killed Aiden, she gave me Dylan.

Dylan was a 5-month-old puppy at that time. He has been rescued with his littermates from the backyard of a breeder (a breeder of show dogs who is still recommended by the Arizona Poodle Club) who had simply left these dogs to fend for themselves. And he was a mess. He was terrified of everything: he wouldn’t walk through doors, ran when someone tried to pet him, and wouldn’t be in the same room with a child. Shortly after I rescued him, I walked into the kitchen to find him standing on the table – I reached for him and, terrified, he bit me soundly on the arm. He needed so much work and I wasn’t sure what I could do. I had failed Aiden and I was sure to fail Dylan. But I started working with him. And it eased my pain. Perhaps, if I could help this new dog, I could forgive myself for what I did to Aiden.

But, slowly, Dylan got better. And I got better. And I knew I couldn’t let him go, so I adopted him. And today, he loves people and, especially, children. He is confident and struts proudly around. He is calm and well-behaved in public. Dylan constantly receives compliments for his behavior and stops traffic with his looks. He is every bit a show dog and he knows it.

Dylan swimming in the ocean in Louisiana 

My Foster Dogs

Over the years, I’ve opened my home to dozens of dogs, each with their own story to tell. These dogs all have been loving, affectionate, entertaining individuals. Many of them have been traffic-stopping gorgeous. Most of them enjoy walking and hiking and being outdoors. And they’ve all become fabulous best friends. Now, maybe rescued dogs are damaged goods. And maybe some of them come with some baggage. But so do we. It gives us character, and it does the same for dogs. I think it makes them even better companions than brand new puppies – they’ve lived life and they don’t take things for granted. Maybe I’m anthropomorphizing, but I don’t think so. I’ve experienced this gratitude time and time again from rescued dogs.

Jade, with her head in my lap while I work

After working with Arizona Poodle Rescue for a couple years, I was trusted to do just about everything, and that included visiting the high-kill shelters and pulling dogs. The work was smelly and dirty and just plain depressing. But that’s when it really hit me: these dogs were dying because no one came for them. These dogs, just about all of whom would make perfect pets for people like you and me, were dying by the dozens every single day. At that point I knew, I’d never buy a dog. Once you step behind the scenes at a shelter, you can’t really justify it. The dogs on the kill lists were usually young and often purebred. Death does not discern between pedigrees.

Sweetie, just after rescue 

It’s funny. We want purebred dogs because they look unique and because they possess a uniform set of character traits. But the reality is, they’ve been breed to all look the same and, really, breed only supplies a small percentage of a dog’s character traits. Sure, many Heelers will herd and many labs will fetch. But just about every dog I’ve met loves a good game of fetch – and I’m not really sure why any of us regular people needs a dog that will herd. In fact, the reason so many purebred dogs end up in shelters (about a third of shelter dogs are purebred) is because people failed to consider these variations, and failed to consider what made sense for their lives. At its most basic level, buying a purebred dog is a very shallow decision.

Dylan snuggles with Mya and Meg 

With my own rescue efforts, especially because I am constantly battling breed stereotypes, my mantra is: “every dog is an individual and deserves to be treated as such.” So, I urge you, go check out the individuals at your local shelters, talk to the workers, and let them help you pick out a dog that truly fits who you are. And I hope that rescuing a dog changes you and impacts your life for the better like it has for me. And when you do find that perfect rescue dog – because you will – walk with your head a little higher, because you just made a very real difference. You just saved a life.