A circle of respect
Dear Fisher,
Oh dear oh dear! Here I am, an adorable little girl, and I wouldn’t hurt anyone. I keep hearing that dogs like me are bad. I don’t think I am bad at all! I love people! Mine are very loving and have lots and lots of friends and they love me and my older cousin. We don’t cause any trouble. They take us on long walks and are very careful that we behave ourselves when we’re out with them. It’s easy to be good for them because we know they really adore us.
My older cousin used to go to the dog park when he was little like me, but when he got bigger he made others at the park nervous. So, they stopped taking him because they didn’t want anyone to feel afraid. I know they miss the man who took him there because he is always happy and everyone likes to be around him. We are very nice but I know some people don’t like us at all. What can I do about that?
Jem
Dear Jem,
You are very right that some people have a fear of your breed. Pit Bulls are often called bully dogs because they are strong and can be rambunctious. You are one of the lucky ones because you are treated so well and your people live in a happy home where you are loved and respected. I can tell they also respect other people and feel responsible for your behavior, so they are making sure you are the good guys. Your breed is a loving, loyal and intelligent breed. Most problems with Pit Bulls come from their handlers who may not be as well organized and responsible as your people. They do sound wonderful, and are aware of the “rap” you guys get generally. They are obviously in tune with others and they should be commended for being ambassadors for you and your kind.
There are three crucial elements to raising both humans and dogs: respect, love, and training. Those who are dogs raised by humans who have little of those traits will not be as well behaved and can cause a lot of problems for the rest of you. You will probably notice when out on your walks that some dogs, regardless of their breed, are not as well behaved as you and your cousin. In your lifetime, you will hear of news stories of Pit Bulls who attack humans and other animals. According to The Real Pit Bull, “Pit Bulls can and do interact peacefully with other dogs and animals. Individual temperament, early training, and socialization all play important roles in determining a Pit Bull’s behavior.”
Right here in the Tampa Bay area, the SPCA is working hard to help people understand your breed and care for you properly. They are asking that your humans be part of the responsible owner solution to Pit Bull stereotypes and test you for good citizenship. “Pit Bulls are not inherently bad dogs,” said Beth Lockwood, Executive Director of the SPCA Tampa Bay. “If they are raised with responsible owners who understand their working breed nature they can be wonderful companions.” You can find out more about this by visiting them online at SPCA Tampa Bay. They will even give you a paper declaring you a Certified Good Citizen! I suggest that before you frame your certificate, you make a very small copy, laminate it, and attach it to your collar.
So, Jem, you should be aware that your behavior is a little more scrutinized than that of other dog breeds. You are getting a great start in life because of the people you live with. Don’t hang your head – be proud of who you are, and by all means, be on your best behavior at all times. It is simply a very good habit to get into. We will all look forward to happy news stories about you guys in the future!
Your friend,
Fisher
published in tbt* Tampa Bay
