Pit bulls need homes, too
Humane societies and other animal shelters across the country struggle with the reputations of certain breeds as their kennels fill up with dogs that still suffer from an image problem. Pit bull-type dogs get the worst of it. Desired by some who are making up for their own inadequacies by getting a big, strong looking dog they can train to be mean — you know, the kind that realizes he is not actually strong enough to be a responsible dog owner, and leaves the possibly mistreated animal in a shelter — these poor dogs then must face a string of potential adopters who walk past, deciding not to give the pit bull a second glance.
But pit bull-type dogs are often the victims of poor socialization, neglect, and even intentional efforts to toughen them up and make them “mean.” Any breed faced with similar treatment would end up with a few outliers who could be dangerous.
In reality, “You can take (pit bills) for a hike and to the dog park without worry if they are socialized properly,” according to Humane Society of Parkersburg manager Amber Dennison.
IF they are socialized properly. That is the key. In most cases, the problem is not the dog; it is the previous owner or breeder.
I once briefly fostered what I thought was a harmless little hound mix — probably about 30 pounds — who turned out to be the most bite-prone dog I have ever met. The poor little guy had obviously been horribly mistreated and developed some psychological issues. Thank goodness a spot opened up in a no-kill facility where he was able to roam the grounds without any worry that he might end up in a home with small children or inexperienced owners.
From the outside Franky looked like the kind of lovable, mushable hound that should be surrounded by kids as he lounged on a rug in front of a fire. In fact, one of the things that made fostering him difficult was that people wanted to touch him; and he did not want to be touched. I had to walk around asking people to give him his space. If he had looked like a pit bull, I probably wouldn’t have had to ask.
Meanwhile, a few minutes with almost any pit bull-type dog — often with their giant smiley faces and tongue hanging out — will teach humans not to judge by reputation alone. It took me about five minutes with one at the animal shelter last year for me to be asking serious questions about taking him home. But, the shelter staff very responsibly noted that this dog might do best in a house without cats — and I already have a cat.
I agonized for months over that dog, regularly asking friends with connections to the shelter how he was doing.
Then last week, one of them told me the gentleman who was fostering the dog had decided to adopt him. Whoohoo! It was no surprise — as I said, he wormed his way into my heart instantly; I’m pretty sure I would not have been able to let him go, either.
Now, I’m not going to be absurd and tell you all pit-bull type dogs are just big harmless lovebugs, and you should all go out and adopt one right now. But I will say this: Please don’t let the actions of a few misguided humans keep you from the chance at finding an incredible companion animal. If you are responsible, understand how to be in charge, loving and willing to properly train and socialize a dog — any dog — don’t scratch pit bull-types from your list, the next time you are considering adopting one.
Christina Myer is executive editor of The Parkersburg News and Sentinel. She can be reached via e-mail at cmyer@newsandsentinel.com