Pit Bull Problems

I'm often asked about my love of the Pit Bull breed(s).

Why do I love them?
How did I come to love them?
Was I always drawn to these dogs?

Growing up, my family had many dogs of many different breeds. 
But I'd be lying if I said that we ever had a "Pit Bull." I'd also be lying if I said I'd ever wanted to have a "Pit Bull" ... or that my parents would've ever allowed us to have a "Pit Bull."

It's not that my parents were "bad" people... they just didn't know any better. Therefore, I didn't know any better. I was never "against" Pit Bulls, but I also wasn't "for" them, either. Mostly because... I just didn't know much about them. 

But what I *knew* about them... all that I *knew* about them... was based on what I'd *heard* about them.
And it wasn't good.

Back then, I'd never heard anything positive said about "Pit Bulls." 
No one I knew ever had a "Pit Bull." 
No one I knew ever wanted a "Pit Bull." 
No one I knew had ever even encountered a "Pit Bull."

Therefore, even though I never "judged" these dogs, I honestly never thought much about them. And I certainly never thought: "One day... I'll grow up and save them."

So... when did this change for me?
Well, it was in 2009, and his name was Rudy. 

By then, I was 24 years old, and I'd met many other Pit Bulls. So... I knew a little more about these dogs, and I cared a lot more about them. But even still, at the time, I wasn't using my voice to help them, nor was I using my rescue efforts to save them.

Until... I met Rudy.
He was the one who changed everything.

Ask any "Pit Bull lover." 
Many of us weren't always "Pit Bull lovers."
Instead, it took one dog... one "Pit Bull" ... to change everything. 
And almost every "Pit Bull lover" can name who "that dog" was for them.

For me, "that dog" was Rudy. 

I'll be honest. I didn't fully trust him at first. 
Not because he was a "Pit Bull," but because he was a dog who had been chained, beaten, and starved for his whole life. I didn't know him... he didn't know me. I was unsure... he was unsure. I didn't know what to expect... he didn't know what to expect.

But I saved him, and he knew it.
So he loved me, and I knew it.

Rudy came to me as a "rescue dog." As with every other rescue dog I take in, I was simply planning to bring him back to health, and then find a family to love him forever. 
Of course, I soon realized... I could never let him go.  

Because he was the Pit Bull who would change my life.

At the time, I didn't fully realize just how much he would change my life, my mission, my future. I also didn't realize just how much unnecessary judgment I'd face, as a result of that decision... simply because, I loved a "Pit Bull" ...

Before Rudy, I'd saved many dogs, and I'd always been praised by others for my love of dogs, for my rescue efforts, for my commitment to my cause. But when I saved Rudy, and I began to rescue other Pit Bulls like him... that's when the public scrutiny entered my life:

"OMG Ashley!!! A Pit Bull?!"
"Why would you?!"
"How could you?!"
"What the hell are you thinking?!"

Initially, I was utterly shocked, and offended. I'd done nothing wrong. In fact, I was trying to do something "right."

I didn't rescue Rudy, simply because he was a "Pit Bull." I didn't trust Rudy, simply because (or in spite of the fact that) he was a "Pit Bull." I didn't love Rudy, simply because he was a "Pit Bull." 

Instead, I rescued Rudy, because he needed me. I trusted Rudy, because he trusted me. I loved Rudy, because he loved me. 

He was the most amazing, incredible, loving dog I've ever known.
And... he just-so-happened to be... a Pit Bull. 

Soon, I realized that very few others were willing to rescue Pit Bulls. Therefore, I started saving more of them. Clearly, it was a choice I made, based on my experience with Rudy. I wanted to save others like my baby, the dogs who had no other hope. 

But it didn't take long for me to understand the weight of my decision. 
When I started rescuing Pit Bulls, I suddenly realized that I was now "different." 
In the minds of many, my rescue dogs were not "dogs" at all.
Instead, I was saving "monsters." 

This realization changed me, in so many ways. I was hurt; I was angry; I was disgusted. 
Suddenly... I was on a mission... to prove every critic wrong. Because they WERE wrong.

That being said, I don't save Pit Bulls, simply because they're the only dogs worth saving. I save Pit Bulls, because these dogs are equally deserving, equally amazing, and equally loving, when compared to any other dog (maybe moreso?). Plus, they're the most judged, most misunderstood, and most hated breed in existence. And very few other rescuers can/will save them. That's where I come in...

I mean... if you were hated, based on nothing more than how you look, wouldn't YOU want someone to stand-up for you?? I know I would...

I could go on for days about how incredible the Pit Bull breed(s) are, but please... don't just take my word for it. 

Instead, go to a shelter, and meet a Pit Bull. Contact an animal rescue group... and ask to walk a Pit Bull. Seriously, go freaking love-on a Pit Bull. 

Trust me... it just takes one... to change your perspective.
And that one "Pit Bull" ... just may change your life. 

*Written in loving memory of "the one" who changed me, Rudy

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Lucky Penny

I rescued Penny nearly 2 years ago... on the day that her "family" threatened to shoot her if I refused to take her. Of course, I just couldn't bear to let that happen to Penny.

Initially, Penny lived in a temporary foster home, but soon thereafter, she came to live with me at Lucky Dog. 

Immediately, I fell in love with Penny's freckled nose and fun personality. She's an outgoing girl, to say the least. But what struck me most about Penny was her unwavering loyalty to anyone who showed her love. She was so eager to please, and I could just tell by the way she looked at me... she would do anything for me. Instinctively, Penny knew that I'd saved her life, and she thanked me for it, every single day.

A few months later, a family offered to foster Penny over the holidays... and of course, they fell in love with her. But even though they adored her, the family already had 2 dogs of their own, and they didn't want to commit to adopting a 3rd... which I understood.

Even still, every couple of months or so, they'd take Penny for the weekend, just to give her some special time.

Penny loved her special weekend trips, and she loved the family even more. In my heart, I secretly hoped they'd decide to adopt her one day, even though I knew it wasn't likely. So... meanwhile, I was still searching for the perfect forever family for this special girl.

One day, I received an amazing adoption application for Penny, and I could barely contain my excitement! Without another thought, I called the family to talk further, and during that conversation, I just knew: this family is absolutely perfect for Penny! 

But then, as we began to schedule the home visit, they mentioned the name of their town. Of course, I'd seen the town listed on their application, but in the midst of my excitement... I hadn't stopped to think about where this town was actually located. Suddenly, it hit me, as I was forced to choke out the words: "I'm so sorry, but your area has a breed ban on Pit Bulls (Breed Specific Legislation BSL)."

I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. 
Penny wasn't going home.

A few months later, the same thing happened: an amazing application came in for Penny... they'd fallen in love with my sweet girl... but... the family lived in a county with a ban on Pit Bulls. 

Once again, Penny wasn't going home. 

This same scenario happens to me all the time. And I mean... ALL THE TIME. Many cities and counties in Mississippi (as well as many other states) have restrictions or bans on the Pit Bull breeds and mixes of those breeds. And while my county doesn't have a ban, most of the surrounding counties do have some form of BSL. 

Therefore, the already-small adoption pool for my Pit Bulls is even-further reduced by BSL, which denies potential adopters in those areas the right to adopt a Pit Bull. 

What's even crazier is... most people don't even realize that BSL exists in their area, which is understandable, because these ordinances are often passed so quickly and quietly, that few residents even know about them. 

So, when one of those residents wishes to adopt one of my Pit Bulls, and I have to inform them of the breed ban in their city/county, they're honestly shocked... as they never knew a ban existed.

To say that BSL makes me angry ... well, that's a massive understatement. It infuriates me in a way that I can't quite describe. These laws are not only ridiculous, unnecessary, and unfounded, but they're DETRIMENTAL to the futures of my loving, deserving, insanely NON-vicious dogs. 

Every single time BSL ruins the chance for one of my dogs to go home forever, I'm nothing short of devastated. I've cried more times over BSL than I can even tell you. I cry for my own rescue babies, and for every other amazing Pit Bull out there... dogs who want nothing more than to go home. They don't want to hurt anyone... they just want to be loved by someone. And BSL denies their only request.

More on that later... back to Penny for now...

So, long story short, Penny has been with me for a very long time. All the while, she's been one of the happiest girls you'd ever meet. But even still... I've been hoping, wishing, praying for that perfect family to come along and take my Penny home forever. 

And yesterday, they did... 

I was contacted by a woman here in Meridian who was very interested in adopting one of my dogs. As we talked, she mentioned the fact that she'd fallen in love with Penny's photos and story, but she'd heard that Penny had already been adopted. 

When I said, "No ma'am... I actually still have Penny!" the woman became very excited. She said: "You're kidding?! Really?! Oh my goodness, I thought she'd been adopted! I'm so in love with her face! Could I meet her?!"

Yesterday afternoon, she came to Lucky Dog to meet Penny. As Penny ran to her and gave her a big, wet kiss, the woman looked over at me with tears in her eyes. She said, "Oh my gosh, I love her! I definitely want to adopt her!" 

Suddenly, I was crying, too. I said: "Penny, did you hear that?! You're going home, sweet girl!" Penny was so excited... I swear she understood what I'd said. She was running back and forth between us: her new mom, Cindy... and her old mom, me. 

I don't know how to describe that feeling... the bittersweet moment when your baby leaves for their future... without you. Penny has lived with me for nearly 2 years. Now... she'll have another place to call home, and another family to call her own. It's slightly heartbreaking, but beyond amazing. That moment meant ... everything... to me. But more importantly, to Penny. She's been waiting for that moment... for 2 years now.

I gave her one last hug, and said: "This is it, PP. This is everything you've ever wanted, and more." As Penny jumped into the car, I waved goodbye... and cried, realizing that the "Penny Chapter" of my life had finally ended... but Penny's future... had just begun.

Last night, Penny's new mom wrote this:
"I have found my new best friend. She is one of a kind in our eyes... fantastic dog... loving, gentle. As soon as we met, we had a connection. She's followed me around all afternoon... she's asleep on my bed right now. Meet my wonderful new best friend: Penny."

Then, she shared a photo of Penny, lounging on her new bed. When I looked at the picture, tears filled my eyes, and this caption entered my head: "Finally... I know what it feels like... to be home..."

If you'd like to help other dogs like Penny, please click below to donate:

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Click HERE to read my original blog post about Penny

BullShit Legislation

*Even if you don't have a Pit Bull, this post applies to you, and here's why...

It's preeetty safe to say that I have a ridiculously-strong love for Pit Bulls. If you haven't quite figured that out about me yet... well, it's okay. Maybe smarts just aren't your thing ;)

In fact, I've written more posts about "the Pit Bull" than any other dog or animal rescue topic.
I've shared the reasons why I love them.
I've examined the reasons why they're hated.
I've discussed why they deserve to live.
I've explained why they're forced to die.

I've shared the truth about Pit Bulls. I've presented the facts. I've disputed the stereotypes. I've challenged the bullshit.

I've shared from my own Pit Bull experiences. Not from what I've read about. Not from what I've seen on TV. Not from what I've been told.

I've been open and honest... candid and realistic.  I've been a lover. I've been a fighter. I've been a friggin-force to be reckoned with.

In turn, I've planted seeds. I've witnessed change. I've made an impact. Slowly but surely, I've opened some minds, changed some perceptions, and righted some wrongs.

In those moments, no matter how small the change... or how tiny the impact... I've been proud of me. Proud of what I was able to do for these dogs. Proud of the hope I was able to bring them. Proud of the lives that may be saved, because I stood up for them, I fought for them, and then... someone heard me, believed me, and did something about it.

However... it doesn't always go that way when I write about Pit Bulls. The response isn't always positive. Readers aren't always open. My words aren't always welcomed, or valued, or even heard. 

Instead, I'm often challenged, ridiculed, and bullied by "the other side" ... the Pit-Bull-hater side. This is the side that boasts sheer ignorance, lacking credibility and compassion, and rallying for injustice. It's the side that works against everything I fight for... the side that hopes to ensure the death of every last living, breathing Pit Bull.

People from this "other side" often write to me... just to provide me with a long list of reasons why each of my Pit Bulls deserves to die. And sadly, many people agree with them.

Keep in mind... these are my children they're talking about. 

Further, these people are extremely arrogant and combative... arguing to be "right" about a subject that they honestly know little-to-nothing about. They'll deny all logic. They'll skew the statistics. They'll swear-by "first-hand accounts" ... random testimonials they've heard from a-friend-of-a-friend-of-a-friend's cousin, who supposedly was there when it happened... or maybe just saw it on the news.

Honestly, it doesn't matter what they know or don't know. It doesn't matter what you say or don't say. It doesn't matter what this-or-that dog did or didn't do.

Because no matter what, they'll stand firm in their misinformation, with an intense, unwavering, and undeserved hatred for these dogs. Dogs that they've never even met... but wish to see killed.

Sure... these people sound pretty damn ignorant, ridiculous, and evil, don't they? So then... why would I even bother to acknowledge them with this post? Surely no rational person would ever take them seriously, or even consider complying with their cruel, unfounded, kill-those-dogs death wishes, right?

Oh man. I wish.

Maybe you're wondering exactly who is on this "other side" anyway, and why they even matter??

Well... I'll tell you. They are your friends, your neighbors, your landlords, your insurance companies, and your lawmakers. That's who's on the other side.

Does this group of people deserve my time or energy? Well... no.
But Pit Bulls do.

And sadly, it's nearly impossible to fight for these dogs, and work toward the justice they so desperately need and deserve, without taking-on those people from that "other side." Or should I say... taking-down that other side.

Here's why:

For every person who distrusts the Pit Bull breed(s)... a Pit Bull dies.
For every neighbor who complains about their presence, a Pit Bull dies.
For every landlord who forbids their residence, a Pit Bull dies.
For every insurance company who denies their coverage, a Pit Bull dies.
For every lawmaker who bans their very-existence... thousands upon thousands of Pit Bulls die.

The "other side" is responsible for the deaths of millions of Pit Bulls each year. Abuse, neglect, and unimaginable torture are to blame for the deaths of thousands more.

And so... the innocent die. The guilty thrive. Justice takes the fall. Ignorance kills them all.

Yet... few people care to acknowledge this issue. Even fewer fight to change it. And even fewer actually do something about it, by saving at least one... before it's too late. By adopting just one, so another has a chance. By loving just one, so they don't have to die without it.

Maybe you aren't a massive Pit-Bull-advocate-freak like me, but surely you have a good heart, and a solid understanding of the difference between right and wrong. Surely you can see that millions of innocent dogs don't deserve to die for no reason. Surely you can understand that your silence allows it to continue.

Maybe you don't have a Pit Bull. Maybe your friends don't either, and maybe you've never even met one. Even still, this issue should matter to you, and here's why:

Consider your dog... whatever his or her breed may be. Consider how much you love your baby, and how much your baby loves you. Consider the innocence of this special, loyal creature in your life, who wants nothing more than to please you... who lives and breathes just for you. Consider just how much you treasure his or her devotion, and just how deserving your baby is of life.

Now... consider if someone else --who has never even met your dog-- tried to threaten your dog's life... because in their opinion, your baby doesn't deserve to live. Consider that this person's opinion was formed... based solely on the actions of another dog of a similar breed.

Consider that the other dog had been severely starved, neglected, and beaten all of his life --and yet-- the dog was punished for those crimes, and was forced to pay the price for what was done to him.

Then, consider that YOUR dog must also pay the price... he'll lose his life. Consider that your dog has been sentenced to death --along with every other dog who bears his resemblance-- based on nothing more than the actions of another dog, who kinda-sorta looked like him. (I'm not kidding. This really happens.)

Consider the feelings you would have... the outrage, the fear, the pain. Consider how you would stand up and scream: "No!!! Please! You can't do this! It's wrong! Somebody please stop them! Help us!" Consider that no one hears you, no one agrees with you, and no one even cares. Consider what it would do to your heart, and your faith in humanity, if this were your reality.

Consider the pain in your baby's eyes, and the fear in his heart, as he is ripped away from the only family he knows and loves. Consider the confusion, the heartbreak, and the terror he will feel... at the moment he is killed.

Now... picture your baby, laying lifeless in a landfill, beneath thousands upon thousands of other babies, who look just like him... and died just like him. 

That's what BSL looks like.

Seriously... ask yourself: what would you do... if this issue affected YOUR dog, in the very-real way that it threatens each of mine? Wouldn't you be angry? Wouldn't you be upset? Wouldn't you fight for your baby's right to live?

Then, to take it one step further, imagine how you would feel if your friends, neighbors, and co-workers sat back and did nothing to help you? What if you were the only one fighting? What if no one else even cared??

I want you to really allow yourself to feel those feelings... to imagine that level of anger and sadness... to acknowledge the utter helplessness of injustice. Does it feel right to you? Is it okay with you? Can you even believe it's allowed to happen??

Honestly, it's insane that this is allowed to happen, but it's definitely allowed... and it's definitely happening. It defies all logic. It's completely ridiculous. But mostly, it's tragic.

Here's the basic premise of Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL): When a dog of a certain breed harms or bites a human, let's just go ahead and ban every dog of that breed from existence... just in case.

It just doesn't make any sense...

Regardless of whether-or-not you love, hate, or feel completely indifferent to the Pit Bull breeds... surely you feel a special bond with your own dog. Surely you realize that your baby is distinctly unique in personality, behavior, and spirit. Surely you see the innocence, love, and desire that shine through your baby's eyes. Surely you look at him or her... and see a creature who is so incredibly deserving of life.

Well, that's how I see my Pit Bulls, too. Even if you don't believe in their love and innocence... it's there. It's in their eyes. It's in their smiles. It's in their hearts. It's in their souls. My dogs deserve to live, too. They just do...

In reading this... maybe you appreciate the love I have for these dogs, and maybe you feel sympathy for their pain. Maybe you don't want them to die, and maybe you wish that things could be different for them. Even still... maybe you're thinking that there's just no real reason for you to join the fight for them.

Because maybe you figure... "At least my dog is safe."

And maybe you're right...

But... maybe you're wrong...

Here's the honest truth: all it takes is one bite, from one dog, of one breed, for people to propose a legislative ban against that breed (Breed-Specific Legislation, BSL).

Across the country, 75 different breeds --and mixes of those breeds-- are currently on the list of banned or restricted dogs. It's NOT just Pit Bulls. In some areas, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are deemed "dangerous," and are therefore banned. If you think small dogs are excluded, well, they aren't. Even breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs are on the list.

And believe it or not... this isn't the useless work of some random Joe Blow, who simply thought it would be cute to list all of the breeds he doesn't like that much. 

Nope. This is legislation, people. It's the law. And each year, more and more breeds (and mixes of those breeds) are being added to this list... in more and more areas across the nation. It's complete BULLSHIT.

And we're all just letting it happen...

By the time your dog's breed joins the list... it may be too late. You've got to care now. You've got to speak now. You've got to act now. Write letters. Make phone calls. Rally others to do the same. Just do something.

BSL is real, it's happening, and it's personal. It's life or death.

And it won't end... until we end it. Please join us in the fight for their lives. Not because I asked you to, but because it's the right thing to do.
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The Truth About Pit Bulls

The societal misconception about Pit Bulls truly blows me away. In the minds of many people, there are dogs... and then... there are Pit Bulls. They're almost viewed as a completely different species.

Well... I've got news for ya. They are canines... just like every other dog. That's a fact.

Many people have never even met a "Pit Bull." Yet, when asked about these dogs, those same people will provide a bold, descriptive account of "the Pit Bull" and his "personality." Aggressive. Vicious. Deranged. Dangerous. Unpredictable. 

Remember... the vast majority of these people have never actually witnessed this behavior, because they've never even been close enough to a Pit Bull to substantiate --or eradicate-- their claims. 

So, the question becomes: what's the basis for these Pit Bull testimonies? How can someone be so certain of this knowledge, when they've never even had an encounter with a Pit Bull?   

The simple answer: the media. 

In order to thrive, the media needs stories... and not just any stories. Sensational stories. Stories that grab your attention. Stories that get people talking. Stories that get you to tune in, read, and share their stories... with others who will tune in, read, and share those stories. That's their job.

So, what makes for a sensational story? Well, consider Hollywood. What celebrity news makes the headlines? Scandals. Drugs. Affairs. Drama. The cover story is never about the sweet, responsible starlet who quietly goes to work and back home every day. Why so? Because innocent isn't interesting. Innocent is boring.

Instead, devastation, destruction, and chaos are desired by the media. And if these things don't exist... trust me, they'll create their own story... 

Does a story about a sweet, loving Pit Bull, who enjoys playfully running through the grass, qualify as "sensational?" Not so much. But what about vicious, killer animal roaming the streets for blood? You betcha.

Consider this: millions of dog bites are reported each year... by dogs of every different breed. Many of these bites cause severe injuries, leading to hospitalizations, surgeries, and death. 

But how many of those stories do you actually see on the news? Well, let me rephrase that: How many non-Pit Bull bite stories do you see on the news?

When a Pit Bull bites someone, it almost always makes the news, with a headline such as "Killer Pit Bull Attacks Human." But what about the Golden Retriever down the street, who bit a child and sent him to the hospital? Well, that one never made the news. 

What about the Chihuahua who mauled a kid's face... did you ever see this headline: "Vicious Chihuahua Mauls Child." Nope... that's not a "good story" either. 

If and when these non-Pit-Bull bites are reported by the media, it's never front page news, and the dog's breed is rarely listed at all, simply stating: "Dog Bites Child." 

In fact, dog bites are so common, that the average bite from the "average dog" isn't considered news-worthy at all... regardless of the degree of injury to the person, or the number of other bite occurrences by that particular breed. 

But why aren't these other incidents covered in the news? Well, any media reports about non-Pit-Bull bites would only reduce the "sensational" aspect of their "Pit Bull attack" stories. And trust me, they don't want that to happen. So, in order to maintain the Pit Bull's "vicious" reputation, the media neglects the many other dog bite incidents by many other breeds. Does this seem honest? Justified? Trustworthy?

So, you may be asking, "Then, why the Pit Bull?" Well, that's the deeper issue here... 

Sadly, the inherent loyalty of the Pit Bull has been exploited by humans for sadistic pleasure and personal gain. Dog Fighting. Baiting. Chaining. Protection. Neglect. Abuse. Thus, the Pit Bull's "reputation" is a direct result of the cruelty to which they're subjected. 

However, the truth doesn't matter to the media, because that "Killer Pit Bull" reputation and their assumed "vicious" nature makes for a pretty darn good news story...

The media never shares the back-story of what happened to the dog before he bit someone. Even though... that piece of information is the most critical part of the story. 

Pit Bulls are arguably the most abused, misused, and tortured breed in America. (Keep in mind that the term "Pit Bull" is actually used to describe at least 3 different breeds: the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.) 

Their strengths are exploited by humans to make these dogs weaker; their weaknesses used to make humans stronger. Therein lies the problem... the truth behind their "bad rap," and the stimulus for the vast majority of Pit Bull bites and "attacks."

But the media never asks the most critical question: What happened to this dog... to cause him to bite someone? I may not know everything, but I can guarantee you this much: something happened to him. 

Maybe this dog was chained and neglected for years, with only a few feet of space to call his own. Never able to run, play, or be a dog. So, when someone enters that limited space, the dog may feel threatened, and his natural fight-or-flight instinct kicks in. But guess what? That heavy chain prevents the "flight" option. "Fight" is all he has, and he bites because he fears for his life.

Maybe the dog was trained to fight. Maybe he was praised for attacking others... and brutally beaten when he didn't obey those commands. Maybe he has lived his entire life, so terrified on a daily basis, that he can no longer trust any human contact. Maybe he thought that biting was his only chance to live another day...

Regardless of what happened, the back-story is never told. More disturbingly, when talking to the media, the dog's owners will always claim that this dog was a beloved family pet, who just suddenly "turned" one day. I'm always amazed that people actually believe these owners. 

Let's take a stroll down Common Sense Lane for just a sec...

So... these people claim that they were a "good family" who loved their dog? Of course they say that!!! Do you honestly expect that they'd tell the media: "Well, we beat the crap out of our dog every day for years, and one day, he finally fought back." 

Or "We chained and starved our dog for his entire life... and one day, the neglect just got the best of him." Or "Our child was taunting the starving dog, who then bit her out of hunger, fear, and self-defense." Or "We trained our dog to protect our home, and now we're angry that he tried to do what we asked of him."

If a family actually admitted that they were guilty of animal cruelty, there would be consequences. So, of course they blame the dog! Then, the law blames the dog, and the media blames the dog. And sadly, society blames the dog... for what humans did to him. 

People actually choose to believe that this Pit Bull just "turned" on the family who fed them, loved them, and cared for them all their life. Is that rational? Of course not! But it makes for a better story, doesn't it? 

So, that's what the media feeds us... and everyone is falling for it... 

If you'd like to hear from someone who has A LOT of experience with Pit Bulls, well... here I am. I've been bitten by a lot of dogs in my life... Labs, Chihuahuas, Spaniels. But out of the thousands of dogs I've worked with, I have never been bitten by a Pit Bull. 

In animal rescue, I deal with the worst of the worst... and these Pit Bulls come to me in the most broken, fearful, and vulnerable state. If a dog is going to bite someone, it'll most likely happen when they're in that fragile, uncertain state... only because they are terrified.  

And yet-- not one of those Pit Bulls has ever bitten me. I work with them daily --many of them. Do you honestly believe that I'd put my life in danger every single day?? And if they're truly so vicious, wouldn't I have been bitten or attacked by now? If they were really so dangerous and unpredictable, surely I'd be at greater risk than anyone else... dealing with so many of them on a daily basis... right? And yet, nothing has happened. Hmm...

The truth is: Pit Bulls aren't any more dangerous than other large breeds, and they aren't any less loving or deserving than any other dog. Wouldn't you choose to believe someone who actually knows these dogs... over someone who has never even met one???

I don't fear them, so they don't fear me. I love them, so they love me. That's critical. Because when fear is present and love is absent, any dog can become terrified.

Every breed of dog is capable of biting and harming someone, and these bites can happen for many different reasons: excessive energy, improper training, lack of socialization, unmet needs, abuse, hunger, neglect, and fear. 

When a dog senses your fear, they assume that they should be fearful, too. They don't understand that you actually fear them... they just sense an abundance of nervous energy, causing their defenses to go up as well. Therefore, they become every bit as terrified of you... as you are of them. So when you move toward them with uncertainty and hesitation... they fear for their safety, which can cause them to bite you. This is true for any dog. 

The most feared dog... is the Pit Bull. People tend to fear Pit Bulls more than any other breed. But does it seem logical that those same people don't fear other large breeds --who are equally strong and capable of harm-- such as Boxers, Shepherds, Labs, and Standard Poodles? Does this make any sense whatsoever?

So, why do they fear the Pit Bull? Because of the media. Because of dog fighters. Because of misconceptions and lies and abuse. Stop buying into these stories! Stop blaming these dogs for dog fighting! Stop believing the lies you are being fed!

The media has a lot to gain from these stories: ratings, readers, and money. Dog fighters have a lot to gain from dog fighting... and even more so, when society blames the dogs, instead of the people. 

But ask yourself this: What do I have to gain here? If you think I'm getting paid to write this, you're wrong. If you think someone is paying me to save these Pit Bulls, you're wrong. If you think I have anything to gain by presenting the truth and seeking justice, well... you're wrong.

Actually, I have a lot to lose here... everything, really. If I'm wrong about these dogs, I risk my reputation, my work, and quite honestly, my life. But... I'm more than willing to put everything I have on the line... because I know that I'm right, and I know that they're worth it. 

The media has everything to gain... and nothing to lose. I have nothing to gain... and everything to lose. So... the question becomes: Who do you choose to believe??

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Stealing Wonder's Wonder

This is what BSL destroys. 

On January 27, 2011, Wonder was scheduled to die in a Dallas, North Carolina shelter. That was the day I saved her life. 

From the moment I saw her shelter photo on Pet Pardons, I knew what I had to do. Her heart was broken... and so was mine. So I saved her.

Soon thereafter, Wonder was transported to Mississippi to live with me. The day she arrived was one of the best days of my life. It was also the day that Wonder became the unofficial Pet Pardons mascot... as thousands of people, from around the globe, cheered upon her arrival. 

The world united for Wonder, and you all watched... as I made her wish come true. That day, in each of our hearts, a special hope was born... knowing that Wonder would never again have to feel that heartbreaking pain she'd experienced all of her life. 

That was on January 27, 2011.

But here we are 8 months later... on the day that hope died.

Let me explain...
Wonder was a severely broken girl with a heart of gold. As she began to heal with me... I watched her spirit come to life. And that's when I got to meet... my Wonder. 

For me, Wonder represents what it means to be alive. Each day, Wonder lives with an appreciation for everything in this world... with an innocence that makes me cry, a joy that makes me smile, and a curiosity that makes me laugh. She has this indescribable love flowing from her heart, unimaginable forgiveness pouring from her soul, and immense gratitude shining through her eyes. 

For me... Wonder is life. 

On my weakest days, Wonder gave me strength. On my saddest days, Wonder made me laugh. On my exhausted days, Wonder gave me energy. Her energy is contagious. Her love is infectious. Her spirit... it will take your breath away.

Experiencing her love, I wanted more than anything to give Wonder the family she deserved. She was special... extra-special... and she deserved an extra-special future. 

Then, a couple of months later, a friend of mine, Anna, decided to participate in my Weekend Foster Program. I asked, "Could you foster Wonder?" She said, "Yes, yes, YES!"

They had an incredible weekend, and Anna cried when she brought Wonder back to me on Sunday. That's when Anna said: "Ash, I'd like to adopt Wonder one day soon." 

I smiled; I laughed; I cried. Are you serious?! Really?! My Wonder?!?! It was just too good to be true. Anna and Wonder were absolutely perfect for each other. They're both super-fun, hilarious, outgoing, high-energy, happy-go-lucky girls, with a serious cuteness to match. I couldn't wait for that day to come. 

And finally... it was here. Wonder was going home. That day, she was so excited to see Anna that she jumped right on-top of my desk. We laughed, we cried, and then, we said goodbye. It was heart wrenching. It was heartwarming. It was everything to me. 

After her adoption, Wonder and I still saw each other all the time. We had several special playdates together, and Anna sent pictures and videos of her every week. She was the happiest I'd ever seen her. It was truly Wonder-ful.

On the days when I wanted to quit, a special Wonder-text from Anna would keep me going. On my best days, Wonder's story played like a movie in my mind. Honestly, her story is the epitome of what I do... and why I do it. For me, Wonder represents more than just life. Wonder's story gives me hope. 

Well... welcome to the day... hope died.  

This week, I found out that Wonder will be returning to me. Not because it didn't work out. Not because Anna doesn't love her. Not because she isn't wanted.

Wonder is coming back to me because of Breed Specific Legislation (BSL). In an instant, BSL will take away everything I worked so hard to give to Wonder... the family, the home, and the love. BSL will steal Wonder's future. BSL will crush Wonder's dreams. BSL will shatter the hope I fought to give her.  

BSL will steal the "wonder" from Wonder. 

It's so difficult to explain how I'm feeling right now. I'm angry. I'm livid. I'm heartbroken. I'm devastated. But that's nothing compared to what Wonder will soon feel. She will not understand this... 

Each day, she'll wait for Anna to come back for her. With each look, she'll beg me to take her home. And each night, she'll cry herself to sleep... thinking she did something wrong.

I'll have to witness that pain, of a mended heart re-broken. I'll have to say I'm sorry, for things I didn't do. I'll have to watch her wait, for a mom who won't return...

When Wonder sits by the window, she'll be hoping to see Anna. When she stares into the distance, she'll be watching out for her. When any car pulls up, she'll be certain it's her family. When we head out the door, she'll think that's where we're going. And when Wonder dreams at night, she'll be dreaming she's back home...

Every minute, Wonder will wonder about Anna. So how am I supposed to tell her... that she's never coming back?? 

BSL stole my Wonder's wonder. 
She can never go home again... 


If you'd like to adopt my Wonder, please fill out the online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption

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The Real Tale Behind BSL

This is the story behind the story... of the lives behind the laws. Welcome to their hell: BSL.

Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) refers to a law or ordinance passed within a given jurisdiction, which restricts or bans the ownership of specific breeds of dogs. 

In some areas, specified breeds are banned completely, meaning that ownership of a banned breed is prohibited and illegal within that jurisdiction. 

In other areas, ownership of these breeds is "restricted." While restrictions vary by jurisdiction, here's the basic premise: owners of a banned breed must comply with a long list of (ridiculous) requirements, including, but not limited to, the following: registering the dog as a "vicious" or "dangerous" animal, purchasing a high-dollar liability insurance policy for the pet, mandatory muzzling of the dog in public, mandatory requirements for "containment" of the animal... the list goes on and on. Possession of a "dangerous" breed can also lead to the denial or loss of homeowner's insurance, or eviction by landlord.

BSL affects many breeds, including Boxers, Rottweilers, Bulldogs, Chows, Shepherds, and Huskies. The most highly affected breed? The Pit Bull.

First of all, keep in mind that "Pit Bull" isn't really a breed at all. Sure... we all use the term to describe certain dogs with certain characteristics, but in actuality, the term "Pit Bull" represents at least 3 different breeds: the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Therefore, the term "Pit Bull" is essentially the same idea as saying "Retriever" or "Spaniel." It's not an actual breed. It means nothing.

So, therein lies the first problem... our society is banning a "breed" that isn't even a "breed" at all. Does this sound logical? No. Does it sound ignorant as hell? Absolutely.

Secondly, in restricted areas, owners of these breeds are required to register their dog --who has never exhibited any signs of being "dangerous" or "vicious"-- as a dangerous or vicious animal. They're required to pay thousands of dollars for liability insurance that serves no real purpose and has no justification. They're required to muzzle and restrain a pet who never has --and never would-- hurt anyone. Does this make sense? No. Does it sound completely ass-backwards? You bet.

In areas where ownership is banned entirely, owners of these breeds are forced to give up their dogs in order to remain in their towns. Does this sound justified? Negative. Does it scream "I'm with stupid?" You got it, dude.

Sure... it's very easy for the rest of us to sit back and say, "If this happened in my area, I would just move." But honestly, it isn't that easy for everyone. Our economy sucks. Jobs are scarce. Homes don't always sell. People can't just pick-up and move at the drop-of-a-hat, and they're given no other option. 

And that's why, each year, thousands upon thousands of "Pit Bulls" are being ripped from their homes and their families. Many of them end up dead in the animal shelter. The rest of them... end up with me, or with other dog rescues like me. 

I can sit here and vent all day about these ridiculous, unwarranted laws and the ignorant injustice that drives them. But that's all been done before. So now, I want to talk about the dogs... and what BSL looks like for them...

 I've seen the impact of BSL on so many Pit Bulls... and I've witnessed what it does to these loving, deserving dogs. Let me first say this: it's extremely difficult to find an amazing home for any Pit Bull in the first place. Trust me... I know. Because... no matter how hard I try, societal bias has reduced the adoptive pool for these dogs down to the size of a tiny teardrop. 

So, each day, millions of Pit Bulls across the country wait for hope to arrive. Some of them have been waiting for years. Others... for days... with only days left to live. For most of them... that hope will never come. But for a lucky few, a family will finally look at them and say, "You're one of us now. Let's go home."

I've seen the joy on their faces in that moment... as they shower their new families with love for the first time... love that's been waiting in their hearts all their lives. I've seen the relief in their innocent little eyes, as the nightmare finally ends. I've watched them happily prance out of the animal shelter... toward the future they never thought they'd have...

Then... I've seen them come back, when a new breed ban strips away their family and forces them from their home. I've seen the pain, the abandonment, and the despair. I've witnessed the utter devastation. 

I've seen what most people don't see. I've stared into the face of BSL... into the eyes of the hearts it breaks. I've tried to pick up the pieces... to repair the damage of what our government has done to these innocent dogs. But no matter how hard I try... I'm never able to fully to fix what was broken...

I've watched them wait... every single day... for their families to return for them. I've cried uncontrollably, because I know what they don't know. Their families won't be back. No one will come for them. They will never go home again.

I've witnessed innocence at its most heartbreaking level... the innocence of those who have done nothing wrong... but were still punished for the crime. I comfort their sadness, with promises of a better future... knowing all the while... that I can never really be certain of my vows to them...

Because in my heart, I know the truth... at any time, BSL can appear in any city, in any county, in any state in America. Its impact can be sudden--without warning-- and just that quickly, these dogs can be right back in this very moment. A heart can only break so many times... 

I bust my ass to save these Pit Bulls, because they have no other hope. Then, I bust my ass to find them amazing homes... to give them the lives they deserve. And eventually, I do send each of them off to their own special future...

But no matter how much I do, or how hard I try... I can't stop BSL from stealing those futures. If I can save them... but no one can adopt them... then how can I give them the lives they truly deserve? I save them for one reason: to give them forever. Then, I'm forced to watch... as BSL suddenly, wrongfully, and tragically rips forever from their hearts.  

This week, I found out that another of my babies will have her own forever taken away due to BSL. She'll be ripped from the only real home she's ever known... and returned to me. I'll be left to pick up the pieces of a heart, so broken... it may never fully heal. And every day... I'll have to watch her wait... for a family that won't ever come back for her...

Each day, my baby will beg me to take her home. But I'll know... that she will never go home again...

I'm asking each of you to help me end this injustice. We have to unite, stand up, and fight BSL. Even if you don't own a Pit Bull yourself, your dog's breed could be the next on the list. Your city... your county could be next. BSL threatens your family... it threatens my family... my dog, Riley, and all of my rescue babies.

I'm tired of picking up the pieces of BSL. I'm tired of saying, "I'm sorry" for things I didn't do. I'm tired of looking into the desperate eyes of a dog who just wants to go home...

Knowing all the while... that they can never go home again...

I can't fight it alone. I'm just one tiny soldier. This will take an army. Please join me in saying, "NO MORE."

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My Dog, Riley

When Rudy died, I was an absolute wreck. The tragic, unexpected loss of my baby was almost too much to bear. During that time, I'd replay his little life over and over again in my head… sobbing uncontrollably. I was paralyzed by my pain, by the realization that I came home to find my little boy... dead, at 3 years old. I never even got to say goodbye...

Two days after his death, I logged onto facebook. At the top of my homepage was a dog that looked so much like my Rudy… and I lost it. My heart immediately fell in love with this precious boy, but my head said, “No, Ashley. Absolutely not. It’s too soon.” The dog was later adopted by another family, but even still, I thought about him every day… somehow knowing he was mine, even though he belonged to someone else. I often kicked myself for not immediately saying, “I want him!”
But I just tried to move on…

A couple of months later, fate stepped in. A ridiculous breed ban in his county placed this dog back up for adoption. I could hardly believe it. I contacted my dear friend (his foster mom) and finally said what I’d been waiting to say for months: “I want him.” She said, “Ash, I’ve always wanted you to have him; I was just waiting for you to be ready. He’s your’s. He's always been your’s.”

And so, I adopted Riley... also known as my heart. Riley has brought more joy into my life than I thought possible after Rudy's death. He's simply incredible… he loves everyone and everything… all dogs, all people, and all activities. But most of all, he loves me. He’s just awesome, in every single way. And there's no doubt in my mind --or anyone else's-- that's he's exactly where he was always meant to be.

But Riley’s life began much differently… his early months were a living nightmare… and he honestly shouldn’t be alive today…

Riley’s Story

My Riley was rescued from a dogfighting ring. At 5 months old, some evil dogfighters placed Riley in the ring, and tried to fight him.

But my Riley, the little angel that he is, is not a fighter. He was utterly terrified… and he refused to fight. Instead, he’d just lie there, curled up in the fetal position, as the other dogs attacked him.

While it sickens and pains me beyond words to envision my scared little baby being viciously attacked by others --others who were simply following the rules-- that’s not the most heartbreaking part of this story.

As noble and precious as it is when a dog refuses to harm others in the ring, the consequences are unimaginable…

If you don’t know much about dogfighting, one of two things happens to the dogs like Riley who refuse to fight:

1)     They are used as bait dogs… meaning the “bait” used to train other dogs to fight. Their teeth are filed or pulled out, their mouths are duct taped shut, and their nails are filed down, until there’s nothing left. Then --with no defense mechanisms-- they’re thrown in the ring—often restrained to further impair them—as other dogs are trained to viciously attack…and kill… them.

Bait dog saved byTri-County Animal Rescue

Bait dogs can only hope for death in the ring… because the ones who survive each attack are forced to endure the same baiting torture, day after day, for as long as they live. Following each brutal fight, they are given no vet care for their wounds, and no medication for the severe pain. Often, their faces are torn off; their ears are hanging from their heads; their eyes are swollen shut; their limbs are falling off. They're rarely fed—if ever, they're given zero attention, and they're confined to a tiny, feces-filled cage, or a short chain with no shelter. Bait dogs live the saddest existence I can imagine.

Dogs like Riley aren't the only ones used as bait. Dogfighters scan “FREE TO A GOOD HOME” ads, animal shelters, and Craigslist for bait dogs. They also steal them from your backyard. Training usually begins with small dogs, puppies, cats, or rabbits. Then, as the training progresses, the bait moves up in size.

If you think you could easily identify a dogfighter asking for your “free” dog, THINK AGAIN. Many police officers, athletes, and wealthy individuals are involved in dogfighting. This is a MONEY sport… these people don’t always appear to be the scum they are, and they’ve certainly learned how to play the “I’m a good home” card to get your free dog for bait. 

The life of a bait dog was Riley’s first option.

2)     If option 1 isn’t selected, dogfighters go with option 2: Shoot the dog on-site.

Well, that’s what happens to the lucky ones at least. Some are used for sadistic pleasure before they are killed… subjected to unspeakable torture and abuse. The dogs are body slammed, beaten to death, hung, electrocuted, set on fire, and/or drowned… as the dogfighters laugh at their suffering.

Death was Riley’s second option.

I think about my Riley… my precious little angel… at 5 months old, left with those 2 options: Unimaginable torture every day of his life, or being shot to death. For Riley, they chose Option 2: shoot him.

Before attempting to kill him, they first tortured Riley by shooting him repeatedly with a BB gun, as he cried out in agony. My vet would later find the BBs lodged throughout his body. I can only imagine his terror and pain, as he was shot over and over again. He probably wished for death… which was just the plan they had for him…

But my Riley is one of the luckiest pups alive. On this particular day—the day meant to be Riley’s last—an undercover informant was present at the dogfight. And while the other dogfighters were distracted, the informant risked his own life to save Riley’s. He snuck Riley out the side door and got him to safety…

Photo by Wayne Rawson Photography

I will forever be indebted to the courageous hero who saved my baby’s life. Riley was set to die that day, but instead… my Riley lives.

And he lives... with me.

I was broken, and Riley saved me… in every way that a person can be saved. To put it quite simply: I was dead, and Riley brought me back to life…

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