Fresno Famous

An Open Letter on “Pit Bulls”, and a response to the tragic attack on the toddler in Delhi, Ca.

I am writing this in response to comments the Madera County Sheriff recently made regarding the tragic attack on the toddler in Delhi. Let me first state that none of what I write is meant to diminish this heartbreaking tragedy. I feel it is my responsibility, as well as that of Fresno Bully Rescue, to focus on the facts regarding “pit bulls”.

The Sheriff made the statement that, “pit bulls are vicious dogs that can just snap.” This is simply not an accurate statement. I have been rescuing and training dogs for most of my life. I have worked with just about every breed and mix you can imagine. Pit bull is a generic term typically used to describe American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Terriers and Bull Terriers.

First, to single out any type of breed of dog is simply ignorant. Just like humans, dogs are individuals. How a dog is raised, trained and socialized is what matters. It is not the breed. In fact, pit bulls have suffered more at the hands of humans than any other breed. I have seen pit bulls with acid poured over their bodies, ears that have been “cropped” (more like butchered) with scissors and cauterized with cigarettes. There is a dog at our rescue center that was tied to a tree for seven years. The hair on his neck were he was tied will never grow back.

Second, dogs are not born with issues. Irresponsible humans are to blame, not dogs. Any breed of dog can attack if not properly socialized and trained. Like a child, dogs take work and commitment. The media has long been biased against pit bulls. Any attack featuring a “pit bull” or “pit bull mix” receives considerable media coverage, no matter the severity of the attack. Just this year alone a woman was killed by her Great Dane and a three-year-old was killed by a Husky mix. No media reported on the woman’s death and only one media source reported on the death of the child. Also, this year a ten-year-old was attacked and killed by what was said to be two “pit bulls”. Over 200 media sources picked up the story. Only later was it learned that the dogs involved in this attack were NOT pit bulls.
At the Fresno Bully Rescue we work hard to provide a healthy and loving temporary home while we look for permanent homes for these so often misunderstood dogs. We are working hard to fight prejudices against these animals as well as help save them from some of the most horrific situations you can imagine. We have rescued dogs that are stabbed, beaten, starved, used as bait for dog fighting. I could go on and on listing the cruelties that these dogs have suffered. Yet, they are all remarkable animals. They are not vicious monsters. They are like any other dog. They just want, and deserve, love and respect.

Pit bulls are actually wonderful family pets. They are great with people and children. Contrary to popular belief they do not need to be an only dog, either. There was a time in this country that they were thought of very differently than now. Remember Petey, the dog from The Little Rascals? He is a pit bull. Stubby the pit bull was our nation’s hero in World War I. He was part of the 102nd Infantry and served in 17 battles in France. He was the most decorated war dog from World War I. Staffordshire Terriers used to be referred to as nanny dogs because they are so wonderful with children.

Bottom line, it is up to humans to take responsibility for their dogs. The blame should not fall on any breed. The blame should be placed upon reckless and irresponsible owners. Period.

Tricia Smith
Volunteer Coordinator for the Fresno Bully Rescue

Fresno Bully Rescue, Inc.
http://www.fresnobullyrescue.org/
8547 West Herndon Avenue
Fresno, CA 93723
Phone: 559-803-5214
Fax: 919-640-7754