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.