Baby Proofing Pit Bulls
Pit bulls are very family oriented and kid-loving animals so it is very important that you “baby proof” your pit bull. Keep in mind, this works for all breeds of dogs and should be done so that your family and home life can remain as incident free as possible with everyone including the family pet getting along!
This was all a learning process for me while raising my dogs and I have had quite a few of them. Most of them have been pit bulls, but there have been other breeds in the mix and it works; although not totally “fool proof” so, as always, care must be taken when the dog is in the presence of the child/children.
When you bring home a new puppy or any age dog addition to your family, it is wise to get down on the level of the dog as this is also the level of the child and just take note of what is at that level. This also helps in seeing other hazards that could be a potential problem when your baby is mobile. By doing this, it has a dual purpose to help prevent any accidents.
Now that you are on that level and the dog is in your face, because trust me, this is a given, start by petting the dog and talking to it. Then take the time to investigate inside their ears with your fingers. Now I am not saying go poke around in their ears, I am saying to do what you would think a child would do to a dogs ears as they will be curious. I like to also take their floppy ears and twirl them in my fingers, they learn to love this and almost demand it. This is also a good time to pull gently on their whiskers and gently tug on their lips as a child will very well do the same thing. Next is to move on down the dog’s body and pull gently on their toes and feet and mess with the pads of their feet and the dew claws if your dog still has them. Take the time to poke around gently in between the pads of their feet as a child is prone to do that as well.
As you are working your way down the dog’s body, take the time to investigate every aspect because this is exactly what a child is going to do. Roll the dog onto its back, if it will let you, I’ve had a few that aren’t happy about being on their backs and press gently on the dogs teats and belly. If you happen to have a male dog, you know what you have to do… yep, squeeze gently on his private parts. I’m sure you do this while bathing him, so he is probably used to it now. Kids and babies are curious about the animal and all of its parts that stick out so by gently pulling, squeezing, tugging, and twisting of the animal’s ears, legs, privates is all to get the dog used to it being touched. Even a gentle tug of the dog’s tail is a wise choice because you know that is one of the things that kids love about the dog.
If you do these little things to your dog every day, he or she will become used to being touched all over and be used to your child/children touching them all over. They will become longtime friends and any incidents will be few.
Obama Joins The Fight For Pit Bulls
Tails are wagging in Washington this week.
Not only did the Obama family introduce Sunny the puppy to her adoring country, but the White House also came out against breed-specific legislation -- regulations and laws that restrict ownership of dogs by breed, pit bulls being the most common target.
Groups like the American Bar Association have said for years that these sorts of restrictions do harm -- to families, to dogs, to due process and to the economy -- without actually improving public safety.
Based on a statement that the White House put out about a week ago, it would seem that Obama agrees. "Breed-Specific Legislation Is a Bad Idea" begins the White House's official response to an online petition, signed by more than 30,000 people, asking for laws that target dogs by breed to be outlawed at a federal level.
Obama's statement doesn't speak to federal legislative efforts. But, the White House does adopt the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's community-based ideas for better methods of improving public safety:
We don't support breed-specific legislation -- research shows that bans on certain types of dogs are largely ineffective and often a waste of public resources...As an alternative to breed-specific policies, the CDC recommends a community-based approach to prevent dog bites. And ultimately, we think that's a much more promising way to build stronger communities of pets and pet owners.
Lisa LaFontaine, who is president of the Washington Humane Society (which received a donation from the Obamas in honor of Sunny the puppy) and a longtime opponent of breed-specific legislation, told The Huffington Post she thinks this statement will provide a big boost.
"The White House is such a bully pulpit for important issues," she says, with her daughter's pit bull, Lila, napping nearby. "And certainly for them to come down against this type of discrimination I think will give pause to any communities that are thinking about putting something like this in place, and certainly will fuel the work that's already being done by advocates to overturn legislation that already exists...It's a really happy day."
Indeed, some advocates -- like those challenging a ban on pit bulls in Prince George’s County, Md., about 20 miles from the White House -- are celebrating.
Others are not quite as ready to give the president a belly rub.
"I think it's the least he could do," says Rebecca Corry, an actress and comedian who's organizing the upcoming Million Pibble March on Washington, which is aimed at spreading public awareness about pit bulls, as well as protesting breed-specific legislation and encouraging federal money be spent on enforcement of animal abuse laws. "It should have been done a long time ago."
Another complaint: widespread pit bull bans in U.S. military housing and other installations (read more about this in a White House petition that went up just after the White House issued its response to the first petition).
"I really, really hope that the military takes note that the Commander in Chief has made this statement about there being no place for breed-specific legislation," says LaFontaine, who says that "there is nothing more difficult" than seeing families surrender well-loved pets due to wholesale bans on certain types of dogs.
"Discrimination enshrined in law is not OK," says Corry, whose own dog, Angel, was abused before taking up station in -- for real -- a pit bull kissing booth. "And that's exactly what breed-specific legislation is."
Here's the White House's full statement:
We don't support breed-specific legislation -- research shows that bans on certain types of dogs are largely ineffective and often a waste of public resources.
In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention looked at twenty years of data about dog bites and human fatalities in the United States. They found that fatal attacks represent a very small proportion of dog bite injuries to people and that it's virtually impossible to calculate bite rates for specific breeds.
The CDC also noted that the types of people who look to exploit dogs aren't deterred by breed regulations -- when their communities establish a ban, these people just seek out new, unregulated breeds. And the simple fact is that dogs of any breed can become dangerous when they're intentionally or unintentionally raised to be aggressive.
For all those reasons, the CDC officially recommends against breed-specific legislation -- which they call inappropriate. You can read more from them here.
As an alternative to breed-specific policies, the CDC recommends a community-based approach to prevent dog bites. And ultimately, we think that's a much more promising way to build stronger communities of pets and pet owners.
Let's end on a cute note (or three).
Here's a picture of LaFontaine and Lila
Here's Corry's dog Angel, getting political during a recent visit to Washington, D.C.
And this, of course, is Sunny
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/20/obama-breed-specific-legislation_n_3785911.html
Pit Bulls - The Most Misunderstood Breed
For the past 25 years, I have raised and lived with many pit bulls, one of the most misunderstood breeds of dogs in the US. Over the years, I have had approximately 10 pit bulls or pit mixes and all of them have been different in lots of ways personality wise, but as far as the loyalty goes, they have been the same. They are the most loving, loyal to their family, and playful breed of dog. Most of America fear this breed due to ignorance of their temperament and loyalty; they see it as aggression towards people and/or other animals.
About The Pit Bull
The history of the pit bull is actually quite extensive. The breed started in the UK to “bait” bulls (www.badrap.org) which then was deemed inhumane and soon became illegal. Dog fighting then became a popular replacement and the actual dog we know today was created by breeding an Olde English Bulldog with terriers to create the replacement we know as the pit bull today. The pit bull is known for its short, agile stature and butt headedness. They are a strong-willed animal that can be easily tamed with proper training and be goofy and affectionate at the same time.
As the immigrants from the UK came over to the US, they brought their dogs across along with the family and possessions as they were an integral part of their family unit. These dogs were then entrusted to protect the homesteads and were vital helpers on the family farms. They were also trusted, constant companions to the young children who were entrusted to their care. It was then that pit bulls earned their place as an important part of the developing nation. The USA admired this breed qualities to itself; friendly, brave, hardworking and worthy of respect. They were thought of more as family dogs than fighting dogs at this point.
Many famous people in US History have owned pit bulls such as Helen Keller, Theodore Roosevelt and we all remember, “Petey” from the TV show Little Rascals. Today, this is a tradition that continues, having a beloved and cherished pit bull as a family dog.
Pit Bulls As Family Dogs
When raised properly, the pit bull is a favorite companion of children and makes wonderful family pets. They love the rough tumble play and love the joyful optimism that children elude. As with all dogs of any breed, some are not suitable to be around young children due to their exuberance and could knock them down unintentionally. Common sense should dictate that children should be taught how to interact properly with dogs of every breed, but especially the pit bull and should always be supervised.
Just like humans, pit bulls are beautiful in their variety; although it is their inner qualities that make them so appealing. Just to name a few of those qualities are strength, confidence, humor, and a zest for life. They do have a sensitive side and get their feelings hurt easily, but if properly socialized, this breed of dog will be quite affectionate and friendly.
Pit Bull Myths
The myths regarding this fabulous breed of dog are rampant. Most of the myths are in regard to the viciousness and locking jaw of this animal; both could not further from the truth. A pit bull is more vicious than any other breed. In all actuality, according to the ATTS, which is an organization that tests the temperament of most breeds of dogs, 86.8% of the American Pit Bull Terrier passed the temperament test (American Temperment Test Society). The other myth that seems rampant among the ignorant is that pit bulls “lock” their jaw when they bite. Of most of the breeds tested, the pit bull was actually the lowest with a recorded PSI of 235, while the Rottweiler was 328 PSI (www.realpitbull.com/myths).
Pit Bull Statistics
As with any breed of dog, think about the facts before you judge. Because of people judging before knowing the facts, pit bulls are facing bans across the United States and even across the world, but society is to blame. This is due to the fact that societies as a whole are the ones tearing the breed apart. According to statistics, in estimation, pit bulls make up approximately 5-9.6% of the United States dog population (Theme) that is in estimation 5,256,000 pit bulls. These statistics were compared with Rottweiler’s, German Shepherds, and Chow dogs making the pit bull at the bottom of the list for fatally attacking a human at 0.00125% based on the average percentage of 7.3% when compared to the other dogs listed.
Pit Bulls And The Media
Most people fear pit bulls because of the reputation that has been placed upon them by the media as well as some of the bad owners. In August 2007, there were some news reports about dog attacks and the press was stating that it was, “yet, another pit bull attack”, but it was actually a Labrador mix, a mixed breed dog, and a medium-sized mixed breed dog that appeared once or maybe twice in the local papers. Also reported at that same time was an attack on an elderly woman with severe, but not fatal injuries by two pit bulls and it went viral; reported in over 230 national and international newspapers’ along with major television networks including CNN, MSNBC, and FOX (ASPCA).
Many well-known celebrities are speaking out in favor of this breed because of the media hype. As stated by well-known media critic and stand-up comedian, Jon Stewart, "The press can hold its magnifying glass up to our problems or they can use that magnifying glass to light ants on fire." The media hysteria surrounding American Pit Bull Terriers has been lighting them on fire — resulting in the mass euthanasia of these dogs simply because of their appearance. Instead, the media's magnifying glass should focus on the real public safety issue: reckless owners of any dog. (Change.org). He is a pit bull owner as well and has done extensive research to prove that there is overwhelming evidence that the pit bull is no more dangerous than any other breed of dog.
Sadly, this happens all too often and the media does not like to retract their misinformation, but when forced to, they do. It is sad that our media seems to latch onto these dog attack stories just to chastise certain breeds, especially the pit bull.
Personal Opinion
I chose to become an informed owner and learn the psyche and demeanor of the classic pit bull, especially because I had kids and knew that I wanted the dogs and kids to be raised together as a family unit; just as nature had intended. I attended many classes, read many books and articles and just spent time with them to try and understand what actually makes the pit bull such a lovable breed. What I found was a truth in the description of the breed, the temperament, and the generalized love they have for people, especially their family.
As with all dogs, pits are pack animals and LOVE with their whole being. They do not realize the power that they exude nor do they know their own strength. They are extremely loyal, especially to their family and their ultimate goal is to protect them as only they know how. The aggression that people fear can be tamed with proper training and reassurance. Most almost always mistake their “smile” as snarling or aggression when it is merely just a smile (Pitbulls.org) as seen here. As with any dog, they thrive on constant praise and reassurance as well as love.
The constant training is always a must with this breed. The training must be reinforced at all times to let the dog know that you are the one in control, not them. They are always willing to learn a new trick or play a new game. They also happen to be one of the funniest breeds as well. They love to romp and pounce on things just like a cat. They are fascinated with flying objects and fast-moving objects such as squirrels, but for toys, balls are a passion. They love to pop tennis balls and then look at you when it falls apart to fix it for them. A basketball or a soccer ball is a great toy as well. Their other passion is a tugging toy and you will tire before they do.
It is very clear that I am very partial to this breed and that the dislike I have for the media and uniformed of this wonderful breed, but that would take up too much paper and time. If a person is going to report on any breed of dog, they should inform and educate themselves about the breed instead of jumping on the said “bandwagon” and go with the hype. If they did, they would find a very loving, sweet-natured animal and become an advocate of the breed which is what is necessary to stop the unnecessary euthanasia of these beautiful creatures.
Just once, everyone should experience one of these fun-loving dogs to learn just how wonderful they are. Once they get in your heart, your heart will never be the same and you will be forever changed. The love of a pit bull is the best love one can receive; unconditional as long as the unconditional love is reciprocated to them. It can actually be summed up in a Beatles song lyric, “All they need is LOVE.”
Works Cited
"ATTS Breed Statistics." American Temperament Test Society, Inc. Word Press, n.d. Web. 24 May 2012. <http://atts.org/breed-statistics/statistics-page1/>.
"Home." Home. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2012. <http://www.badrap.org/>.
"Jon Stewart, Pit Bulls, and Media Hysteria." Change.org News. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 May 2012. <http://news.change.org/stories/jon-stewart-pit-bulls-and-media-hysteria>.
"Pit Bull Bias in the Media." ASPCA. ASPCA, n.d. Web. 29 May 2012. <http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/advocacy-center/animal-laws-about-the-issues/pit-bull-bias-in-the-media.aspx>.
"Pit Bull Myths." Pit Bull Myths. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2012. <http://realpitbull.com/myths.html>.
Theme, Arras. "Pit Bull Fatal Attack Statistics." Pit Bull Statistics. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2012. <http://defendpitbulls.com/pit-bull-attack-statistics/>.
"Welcome to Pitbulls.org." Truth about Pit Bull Terriers, Training Help, Pictures, Resources. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2012. <http://www.pitbulls.org/>.
The Dewey Punkin Story
Let me tell you the story of one of the cutest, move lovable puppies in the whole entire world!
Her name is Dewey Punkin; the “Dewey” not my choice, but it fits and, yes, the “Punkin” is my doing! She is a red nose/blue nose pit bull, but don’t tell her that. We got her on October 30, 2010 at the age of six weeks. She came from Reno. She was so little and needy. It had been about 2 ½ years since there had been a puppy in the house; you kind of forget how needy they are, but her needs ended up being more than I had expected!
I started her on the puppy version of what the older dogs we had at the time were on. She seemed to do well, and then the issues started. She was restless, gassy and had bad “messes,” so off to the pet store to check on different foods. After telling the associate about her issues, they suggested putting her on a “grain free” diet to rule out that issue first, then working on a possible “protein” source issue. We got her on the new food and some of the issues stopped, but I knew there was something more going on with her. We tried her back on the chicken protein and, oh my goodness, we were nearly gassed out of the house. We literally lived under a “green cloud” of stench! Back to the pet food store, explained the issues with her yet again, and it was a mutual decision that she was allergic to all foul!! Next issue to figure out, dairy. Turns out, this puppy has so many food allergies common to the breed that she had to be put on a totally “gluten free” diet. All I could think of was, “Why me?! Why do I have to have the puppy with all these issues?!” So instead of focusing on me, I had to focus on her with these issues, and I had to find a way to “FIX” her. I had to do something for her so that all of us could have a happy life without her intestinal issues. I started researching recipes for dogs with gluten allergies and found out that it is actually more common than one would think.
Off to the health foods stores to check out all of the gluten free ingredients to make her special treats since she has the sensitive intestinal issues. I really did not know what I was in for when I decided to make her special treats. Most of the gluten free ingredients are rather pricey, but what the heck, she is worth it! She has the most adorable face and disposition; I HAD to just buy the stuff!!
Since figuring out her tummy issues, life with her has been a pleasure. She still has some issues, but those are ones that are livable. She is on a totally gluten-free, lactose-free diet and is the picture of perfect health.
I would be happy to share my trials and tribulations of what I have gone through with anyone who would like more information.