B-More Dog Community Pit Bull Day in Ellwood Park

On Saturday, November 19, 2011, B-More Dog (an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization) hosted Community Pit Bull Day in Ellwood Park. With the help of veterinarian Dr. Johnny Slaughter volunteering his time, more than 70 dogs were vaccinated in this Southeast Baltimore neighborhood. It was a beautiful, sunny Saturday and more than 200 people came out with their pets!

B-More Dog is a group of dedicated pit bull owners and advocates who volunteer their time, knowledge, and experience with the goal of "Making Baltimore a better place for Pit Bulls and their families." While not a dog rescue organization, B-More Dog focuses on education and outreach. In addition to hosting neighborhood outreach events like this, B-More Dog provides free humane education seminars to schools and community associations, partners with local shelters, and stays abreast of local and state legislation with the potential to affect dog owners.

Inspired by similar pit bull events hosted by organizations across the country, Community Pit Bull Days in Baltimore assists Baltimore dog owners with keeping their dogs healthy and happy. B-More Dog focuses their efforts to pit bull owners because pit bull-type dogs (over)populate local shelters in Baltimore (and across the country).

During Community Pit Bull Day, B-More Dog provided Rabies vaccines for dogs of age, as well as DAPPv (Canine Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus vaccine) for dogs who previously received their booster. As part of our mission, pit bull-type dogs were vaccinated for free; nearly 75% of the dogs receiving rabies shots were pit bulls or pit bull-mixes.

B-More Dog also provided a Leash and Collar Exchange booth. This supplies dog owners with sturdy, properly fitting, clean equipment for their dogs. In exchange for the new gear, dog owners have to swap out their old gear which included both leashes and collars made of chains and rope. Unfortunately, we quickly ran out of leashes.

This interaction presented a great opportunity to discuss spaying and neutering animals. Many dog owners were receptive to the idea and 10 responsible pet owners were given free vouchers to use before the end of the year!

Other activities included an “Ask The Trainer” segment, as well as a training demonstration. All of us at B-More Dog were overjoyed with the day’s results, as well as for the many times we heard “thank you” and “bless you.” B-More Dog is unendingly grateful to veterinarian Dr. Johnny Slaughter, DVM, CVA, who generously volunteers his time to make Community Pit Bull Day happen. Information about Dr. Johnny is available at www.camdeninnerharborvet.com/

Many special thanks to Caroline Griffin, Chairperson of the Baltimore Mayor’s Anti-Animal Abuse Advisory Commission, who stopped by to visit and graciously let us put her to work by driving to pick up more copies of our rabies certificates! We almost ran out (our goal for the day was 50 dogs and we only had paperwork for this amount), and Caroline made it possible for many more dogs to be vaccinated.

We also can’t thank our dedicated volunteers enough! (Not everyone is pictured, but we know who they are.)

B-More Dog is planning quarterly Community Pit Bull Days throughout the City in 2012. A “wish list” of donation items (leashes, collars, flea preventives, etc.) will be available shortly. We’d love your support!

More information is available about B-More Dog at:
Email: b_moredog@yahoo.com
Website: http://bmoredog.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/35638834718/10150395379909719/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/bmoredog

Tips for a Dog Friendly Thanksgiving

A celebration of family, friends, and food, Thanksgiving is among the favorite holidays of many Americans. The delicious feast is anticipated well in advance of the actual day. But while preparing for the celebration, it’s important to keep mindful of our four-legged family members and remember what we can do to keep them safe.

Our dogs are part of the family and it is tempting to make a plate for them when doling out heaping helpings of all our favorite Thanksgiving dishes. However, overdoing it on high-fat holiday foods—turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and other favorites—can upset a dog’s stomach and result in gas, diarrhea, or life-threatening pancreatitis.

It is fine if you want to give a small taste of some of the holiday dishes, including the turkey—but make sure the meat is fully cooked, boneless, and skinless.

Following are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Before the guests arrive, exercise your dogs so they are tired and on their best behavior during the meal.
• Make sure guests in your home know the house rules regarding your dogs. Make sure that children know the dangers of roughhousing with the dog and that everyone knows not to feed from the table. Placing your dog’s crate in a quiet room will allow for a quiet break from the action.
• Have stuffed Kongs prepared in case the dog is begging for food and needs to be distracted. Very small portions of Thanksgiving food stuffed into the Kong could make for a nice treat.
• Keep the turkey carcass and plates with bones out of reach, as cooked turkey bones are sharp, can cause extensive damage to internal organs, and can go undetected for several days.
• Keep toxic foods such as sage and onions, as well as uncooked cake batter (to avoid food poisoning from raw eggs), out of reach.
• Do not give uncooked bread or roll dough to your dogs. Heat makes dough rise, and in the dog’s stomach, the dough can expand and cause stomach pain, vomiting, and bloat.

We wish our PBRC supporters and their families a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

Sources: Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Dog Owners (http://www.dogster.com/dog-food/thanksgiving-safety-tips-for-dog-owners)
Thanksgiving Safety Tips (http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/thanksgiving-safety-tips.aspx).

Guilty ‘Til Proven Innocent Documentary

Guilty 'Til Proven Innocent is a documentary film chronicling the history of Breed Specific Legislation in Ohio since its conception, and challenging its future. Here's what Producer, Director and Assistant Editor Jeffrey Theman told PBRC about the inspiration and creation of this documentary:

The day my whole life changed was not as obvious back then, but in retrospect is starkly apparent. That day has become the reason I wake up every morning. I have always been an animal lover, especially dogs, and I wanted to raise awareness about the cruelty that exists against our four-legged companions. In early 2007, I decided to put my creative talents to use and produce a documentary about animal abuse in general. I wanted to narrow down the topic to one of the many types of cruelty, so I embarked on a mission to find the issue that needed the change the most.

After many weeks and countless hours spent barricaded in my Lakewood, Ohio apartment, brainstorming possible topics for this film, a well known star NFL quarterback was suspected of dogfighting crimes. On April 25, 2007, I had an epiphany, this was sign I was looking for, and started planning my new film with the idea of exposing dogfighting, with an emphasis on the victims - the dogs. It wasn't until nearly a year later that "Guilty 'Til Proven Innocent" became the film that it is today. The city in which I lived in proposed a ban of Pit Bull-type (and "Canary") dogs, just as I was in the middle of adopting my American Pit Bull Terrier, Preston. Preston is a little black dog, who was saved from an Akron, Ohio house during a drug bust where they used him fighting. The first day I met him, I knew that he was my soul dog; I knew he was meant for me.

Preston had spent two years in the rescue getting passed over when potential adopters came to see available dogs, mostly due to his color (black dog syndrome), and the percieved challenges of sharing a home with a dog scarred both physically and emotionally. Add in the mix that he resided in the most restrictive state when it comes to Pit Bulls, due to its statewide breed discriminatory laws. My struggles to adopt Preston and my status as an Ohio resident, which has harbored its breed specific laws for the past 24 years (and counting), prompted me to start seriously investigating the impact of BSL. It felt like negligence if I didn't probe further. I quickly found breed discrimination presented a compelling type of abuse. Hidden behind a cloak of institutionalized legitimacy, these laws target millions of innocent dogs and impact good families across this country and around the world. These laws seemed to grow in popularity, particularly around where I lived. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I never knew these laws even existed prior to 2007. I've heard the media hype about Pit Bull dogs, but I didn't know there were laws in place that could allow animal control to take and kill or label vicious and restrict a dog for no other reason than the opinion of a person with little to no knowledge about dogs, dog behavior, dog breeds, or any other pertinent factor. It became obvious to me that this documentary would transition into a film about these laws and the dogs and owners who battle the accompanying intolerance.

It took five months and a new residence outside of Lakewood to finally bring Preston home. We've now had three years to bond, and to prove to the public that dogs should be judged on a level playing field, based on their actual actions. Because everything that Preston has endured, and as friendly as he is to any human willing to give him a chance, he continues to change people's minds, and makes them question the same things I did not long ago.

It is these questions that the the tagline of the film asks: "Do we have a dangerous dog breed problem..., or just dangerous laws targeting dogs?" When people ask me why I chose to explore breed discrimination with this documentary, I tell them, I didn't choose the film, the film chose me.

Jeffrey Theman
www.GTPIfilm.com - official film website
www.facebook.com/GuiltyTilProvenInnocent
www.facebook.com/Preston.aka.Pig - Preston's facebook fan page

The Joys of Adopting a Senior Pitizen!

When it comes to adopting a dog many people automatically think of adopting a puppy. Though puppies are cute and sweet and they get a lot of attention, they also require patience and energy to help them become wonderful family members and companions. The advantage of adopting an older dog is that they can be just as cute and lovable as a puppy, and they already have their personality and training. Most are already housebroken and over the chewing on inappropriate objects phase. There is no guessing what your dog will become, as what you see is what you get when you adopt an older dog!

You may not want to adopt a senior dog because you fear that your time with your new best friend will be too short and too painful when the dog passes. However; the privilege of bonding with and loving a senior dog makes every day special! The knowledge that you have given an older dog a second chance at life will help create a strong and deep bond, and the love that grows from this knowledge is stronger than the pain of eventual separation.

Reasons to Adopt a Senior Pitizen

• Senior pitizens are generally low maintenance. They love to sleep and cuddle the day away. They enjoy a brisk daily walk, but the best part of the day is their nap, and they love for you to join them at nap time!
• Senior pitizens have learned many of life's lessons. They know, for example, that shoes are for walking and bones are for chewing. They also know that outside is for doing business and indoors is for relaxing! Your carpet will last longer with a senior pitizen vs. a puppy!
• Senior pitizens can learn new tricks and be valuable family and community members. Because they have mellowed, they can focus on you and learn more quickly than a puppy.
• Senior pitizens leave you time for yourself because they don’t require the same kind of time and attention that puppies and young dogs do.

Don’t delay! If you are looking into adopting a dog consider a senior pitizen today! Not only will you be saving a dog, you will gain a dedicated companion for life!

Wash For Paws

GET YOUR CAR WASHED WHILE HELPING TO DONATE TO PIT BULL RESCUE CENTRAL (PBRC)!

Pro Wash Auto Spa is excited to hold its 1st annual CAR WASH fundraiser to benefit PIT BULL RESCUE CENTRAL (PBRC).

PBRC tirelessly helps to prevent cruelty to dogs identified as pit bulls and pit bull mixes, as well as helping to facilitate the rescue & placement of homeless pit bulls into responsible homes. PBRC is dedicated to educating the public on the breed & to serve as a hub for many pit bull organizations, shelters & online communities.

Pro Wash Auto Spa will donate 25% of the day's profits to PBRC!

October 29th
PRO WASH AUTO SPA
9 am- 3 pm
10000 Old Columbia Rd
Columbia, MD 21046
FOOD, PRIZES, FUN!

RAIN DATE: 10/30/11
YOU NEED NOT BE PRESENT TO WIN RAFFLE
Sponsored by:
Pro Wash Auto Spa, LLC

Halloween Pet Safety Tips

(Info From Whats New at LA Animal Services)

Make this holiday fun for your furry family members, too!

Halloween can be a festive and fun time of year for children and families, but for pets it can be stressful and even dangerous. Here are some ways to keep it fun and safe:

• This is the perfect time to make sure your pet is licensed, microchipped and wearing up-to-date identification. A dog license helps our Officers get your lost pet safely home.
• Plan ahead to keep your companion animals in a room away from the front door when trick-or-treaters are visiting. It is too easy for them to become frightened by the goblins and slip out the door.
• Chocolate and other seemingly harmless ingredients can be poisonous to dogs and cats, so keep them out of reach. Dispose of the wrappers where pets can’t get them to avoid choking. Also, remember that children may not understand why Fluffy can’t share their treats, so use this as a teaching opportunity.
• Tail wagging is a good thing – unless it’s done around a lit candle! Keep candles and lit Jack-o-Lanterns at an appropriate height where your pets can’t knock them over or get burned.
• A decorative collar is far more comfortable than a costume for your pet. Make sure your pet thinks a costume is as much fun as you do before you dress them up for Halloween.

By following these helpful tips, Halloween can be a fun and safe holiday for pets and people alike! Trick or Treat!

PBRC's 6th Annual Howl-o-ween Photo Contest!

If the flame of a candle turns blue on Halloween night, a ghost is near. But in the weeks before Halloween, if a room suddenly flashes white, that means a pit bull is looking adorable in a Halloween costume and its owner has broken out the camera!

So what will your pit bull be for Halloween? A rock star? A politician? Another animal or insect? A ghost or goblin? A household appliance? Be sure to snap a photo and send it to us.

PBRC invites you to submit photos to our
6th Annual Halloween Photo Contest!

Please submit your photos no later than

11:59 pm EST on October 26, 2011.

Voting begins 12:00 am EST October 28, 2011.

Voting ends 11:59 pm EST October 30, 2011.

We will announce the winners on October 31, 2011.

Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners on Halloween!

Submission rules:

• Submit only one photo per dog.

• Include your name, your dog's name and your e-mail address.

• Contest is limited to photos of pit bull dogs.

Send your photos to pbrccontest@gmail.com

Happy Howling and Good Luck!

June or November, 70 degrees is 70 degrees

The leaves changing from greens to bright oranges, yellows, and reds is a telltale sign that fall is upon us. Lowered humidity and temperature drops are also expected once the calendar reaches mid-September. But summer-like temperatures occasionally come roaring back in late September and October—sometimes even November.

As responsible dog owners, we need to remember that 70 degrees is 70 degrees, and even though it may be fall according to the calendar, dogs may succumb to the heat if locked in a car.

Consider that on a 70-degree day, even if the car is parked in the shade with the windows open, the temperature inside the car can reach near 100 degrees in minutes. And because of the excess heat in the car, the dog’s ability to self-regulate its temperature—exhaling hot air and inhaling cool air by panting—is compromised as it forces the dog to take in hot air.

So remember: if you must take your dog with you in the car, be sure to heed the actual outside temperature—not the typical temperature based on calendar month—and take all necessary precautions to keep your dog safe.

Pit Bull Awareness Event - Oct 22 - St Paul, MN

Kindest Cut (http://kindestcutmn.com/) and the Animal Humane Society are sponsoring a subsidized spay/neuter day for client owned Bully Breeds.

Event will also includ free microchipping for the public, education on positive things to do with your pit bull, training tips, Kindest Cut tours and kids activities. Event takes place at the Neighborhood House from 10am - 2pm. For more info, 763-489-SPAY (7729)

ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog month. If you are looking for a new companion, don’t forget that shelters and rescues are filled with amazing dogs waiting for their forever home. Dogs of all ages, sizes, breeds, and personality types are available. You can even begin your search from home! Sites such as www.PBRC.net and www.Petfinder.com offer a free listing service for rescues to showcase available dogs. Many shelters and rescues also list adoptable pets on their own websites.

Before you add a dog to your family, there are a few questions to consider:

• Is now the right time to add a pet? Pets are a lifelong commitment. Adding a new dog to the home during a busy time—such as a new baby, a move, or a change in career—can make things challenging. If it is not the right time for your family to adopt a dog, you can help in other ways: Sponsoring a dog's adoption, volunteering at a rescue, or even just getting word out about the amazing dogs looking for homes are just a few examples.
• Am I financially ready for a new dog? The cost of a dog is not just the adoption fee! Although reputable rescues provide a great start by vaccinating and spaying or neutering before the dog goes home, vet care is ongoing. Always factor in the cost of food, training, toys, and other items to determine if now is a good time to adopt.
• Does my housing situation allow dogs? If you are a renter or live in a planned community, check your rental agreement/contracts to make sure you are allowed to have a dog and if there are any restrictions. Also check the local laws to ensure there are no breed restrictions to make note of.
• What kind of dog am I looking for? Although you may be drawn to a particular dog because of its coat color, size, or particular look, consider that particular dog’s traits with your lifestyle. If you are a couch potato, an active dog may not be the right match. If you love to exercise, a low-energy dog may not be able to keep up with you! Seek further information regarding the dog's medical status and behavioral/temperament evaluation. Are there training obstacles that may seem too challenging for you? Are there any underlying health issues that you will need to address?
• Will a new dog fit in with the pets I already have? If you have other pets, you will need to determine how will you acclimate or manage the pets to prevent unneeded stress. Taking things slowly is very important for both the new arrival and the current resident.

Once you feel that you are ready, take your time looking for the perfect companion. Be sure to research the type of dog you are looking for. The rescue or shelter can help you find the perfect match for your family. Many dogs in rescue already have a training background, are house trained, and are just waiting to be a part of a family. Rescuing is a rewarding experience that offers innumerable benefits!

The Poppy Mart Online Auction Has Begun!

PoppyMart 2011 is Here! Let the bidding begin!

PBRC's on-line auction, Poppy Mart 2011 is finally here. Through September 25, you can bid on over 700 exciting items for auction! Dog stuff, people stuff, gifts, jewelry and collectibles. There is something for every taste and wallet.

Pit Bull Rescue Central, Inc. (PBRC), a 501(c)3 organization, started its eighth annual on-line auction at 10:30PM Eastern (7:30PM Pacific) , on September 18th, 2011. All proceeds from Poppy Mart will go directly to PBRC's Fund - which finances Pit Bull Spay/Neuter; assists with medical procedures beyond the financial reach of rescuers, caretakers, owners and shelters; and supports the website that enables us to list dogs for adoption and provide educational resources. PBRC is staffed entirely by unpaid volunteers.
 
We are once again using eBay as our venue. To register for the auction and for instructions - Register Here! (Note: Everyone bidding needs to register with eBay.) If you are already registered with eBay, all you need to do is start bidding! Before you bid, we ask that you review our Auction Guidelines page.

Please visit our sponsor page to support our generous donors. PoppyMart would not be possible without the many retail vendors, volunteers, and friends who donated to PBRC's auction.

Click this link to go directly to PoppyMart!

Please note that the individual auctions will end at approximately 10:30PM Eastern (7:30PM Pacific), September 25th. The start and end times were changed this year to allow more bidders to be present for the closing bidding.  Feel free to contact us at fundraising@pbrc.net with any questions!

The Volunteers of PBRC

P.S. PLEASE cross post this message!

Back to School Time!

Back to school can be an exciting time for families, but it can be a stressful time for our pets. With family schedule changes that can lead to increased time alone and decreased activities, our dogs may end up feeling like they are in detention!

Fortunately, there are easy ways to help our dogs stay safe while adjusting to these changes.

• Keep new school supplies, including glue and pens, stored safely away from your beloved pet. Make sure your dog has its own "dog approved" items to chew, such as deer antlers, hollow bones, and so on.
• Set aside some one-on-one time with your pet for training and exercise. School and after school activities are not just for humans. Activities including group obedience classes and running are important for keeping dogs active and engaged.
• Keep a set schedule that includes your dog. Dogs thrive on consistency. Consistent feeding, exercise, and nap times are important.
• Give your dog something to do when left alone. Items like Kongs stuffed with peanut butter and frozen can help tire out your dog while keeping him or her engaged and easing anxiety
• Children who are new visitors to your home should NEVER be left unattended around your dogs. Always supervise interactions and look for stress signs that the dog is not comfortable, such as lip licking, yawning, and avoiding eye contact—these are all signs that Fido needs a break.

These tips should help keep your favorite pet well adjusted and happy during the back to school transition!

Northeast PA - FREE Spay/Neuter for pit bulls for a limited time

FIREWORKS ARE NO FUN FOR PETS!

More pets get lost and end up in shelters on the 4th of July

Independence Day is fun and festive for many families; let’s also keep it SAFE for you and your pets! Big gatherings, loud noises, and fireworks are the things we love about the 4th of July and those can be very frightening for our pets. With a little planning, you can ensure that this holiday will be enjoyable for everyone.

Pet Safety Tips:

• KEEP PETS INDOORS

Keep your pets in a safe, enclosed room, preferably one without windows. If you’re having guests over, consider keeping pets in a room that’s off-limits to guests, with plenty of water and food.

• CREATE A CALMING ENVIRONMENT

Surround pets with their favorite toys and other familiar objects. Sometimes the smell of an article of clothing from your laundry can help comfort them. Play soothing music and keep the room as quiet as possible by closing doors, windows, and blinds.

• KEEP AWAY FROM FIREWORKS

Even if your pet doesn’t seem obviously upset by fireworks, they can still cause harm to pets. Avoid potential burns, injuries, or possible ingestion by keeping all pets out of the vicinity of fireworks.

• UPDATE IDENTIFICATION

The biggest risk of all this 4th of July is that pets will get loose and become lost. Even if a pet is secured inside, the sound of fireworks can cause them to panic – sometimes even breaking through glass windows. Make sure your pets are microchipped and wearing identification tags. Dogs should have a City License on their collar. Call to confirm that the pet’s veterinarian and the microchip company have your current address and phone numbers.

Enjoy your Holiday and play it safe! Happy 4th of July Los Angeles!

The mission of the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services is to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of animals and people. Call us at 1-888-452LA-PET1/1-888-452-7381 (TTY Hearing impaired: 877-875-8205) or visit the website at www.LAAnimalServices.com to learn more.

Take Your Dog to Work Day!

On Friday June 24th, work places across America are literally going to the dogs! That’s right- it is Take Your Dog to Work Day! Started in 1999, this fun day helps promote the human- canine bond with both owned pets and shelter dogs. Having a dog at the office can decrease stress and increase motivation to work.

In order to make this an enjoyable day for both dogs and people, here are a few tips:

• Get permission from your place of work, before bringing your dog.
• Work on obedience cues before bringing your dog to work with you.
• Have a reliable contact to pick your dog up, if a full day at the office is too stressful for your canine companion.
• Have your dog on leash at all times, to keep everyone safe and secure.
• Respect other people and their dogs, never forcing interactions
• Take plenty of treats that your dog enjoys, to reward good behaviors.
• Find out where designated potty breaks are.
• If your workplace is not appropriate to bring your dog, ask if you can promote local adoptable dogs instead.

Enjoy this day with your dog or by helping a dog who needs a loving home. For more information, go to: http://www.takeyourdog.com/

Standing Against Breed Specific Legislation

Last week, a bill was introduced in Michigan that sought to end "pit bull" ownership across the state. The good news is that Rep. Hugh Crawford, chair of the House Regulatory Reform Committee, said he has no intention of taking up the legislation. Rep. Crawford accurately stated: "I don't think it's a dog problem, I think it's a people problem."

The bad news is that this is not the first nor the last we've seen of breed specific legislation. The Michigan bill can still be resurrected, and policies that target pit bulls are being proposed, discussed, passed or repealed in cities across the country.

Pit Bull Rescue Central is opposed to all breed-specific legislation. Below is the letter sent from PBRC's President to Rep. Tim Bledsoe, who introduced the Michigan pit bull ban, urging him to research the issue further and seek alternatives that judge a dog based on behavior rather than appearance.

There are few things as emotional as the prospect of losing your dog. But if BSL comes to your neighborhood, remember to always remain polite and professional. The facts are on our side.

Feel free to use the talking points below. For more resources, including the latest news and tools to fight BSL, check out Understand-a-Bull.com and PBRC's website.

*****

Dear Rep. Bledsoe,

I was dismayed to read the text of HB 4714, “the pit bull regulation and prohibition act,” introduced last week. While Rep. Hugh Crawford has indicated that he will not be hearing the bill in the Michigan House Regulatory Reform Committee, I wanted to reach out to you to provide information on the issue and to encourage you to seek more effective alternatives to protect Michigan citizens.

In recent months, Dearborn, Lincoln Park, Rochester Hills, Southfield, and Sterling Heights all opted not to pursue breed-specific measures after researching the issue. While HB 4714 was introduced in Michigan, Ohio, the only state that currently regulates dogs based on breed, was hearing testimony on a bill that would overturn its breed-specific law. In addition to being constitutionally challenged, Ohio’s law has proven ineffective and expensive.

The media has reported that you introduced this bill in response to a constituent who had been injured in a dog attack, based on the belief that some breeds of dog are a greater threat to public safety than others. This belief, while unfortunately common, is not supported by facts. Consider the following:

- Dog bite statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are often cited as support that some breeds of dog pose a greater threat than others. However, the CDC and the authors of that study have stated that its purpose was to show that it is not one breed that is responsible for dog bites. They have also admitted that the data is inaccurate because media reports were a major source of the information.

- There is no statistical evidence that some dog breeds are more dangerous than others. The CDC dog bite fact sheet states: “There is currently no accurate way to identify the number of dogs of a particular breed, and consequently no measure to determine which breeds are more likely to bite or kill.” In fact, the CDC stopped tracking dog bites by breed years ago.

- The lack of information on how many pets or what breeds are owned is exaggerated when you consider that dog breeds in bite reports are identified by the victim, police officers, or reporters -- none of whom are trained in dog breed identification. A study by Dr. Victoria Voith found that, when compared with DNA tests, visual identification by animal shelter workers (who are experienced in dog breed identification) was only correct in 25% of the cases.

- Dog bite studies that rely on media reports (e.g. The Clifton Study, Dogsbite.org) are particularly inaccurate. In addition to the reasons cited above, the media is inconsistent in reporting bites by other breeds, or may initially report that a “pit bull” was responsible for a dog bite when it is later discovered that the dog involved was not, in fact, a pit bull breed.

- I understand that you are the owner of a Golden Retriever, a breed which has a great reputation as a family dog. According to the American Temperament Testing Society (http://atts.org/), which administers standardized temperament tests, 84.9% of Golden Retrievers tested passed their temperament evaluation. Yet 86.4% of American Pit Bull Terriers, 84.2% of American Staffordshire Terriers, and 89.7% of Staffordshire Bull Terriers also passed the test, disproving claims that they are less stable than other dogs.

The fact is that dogs do not bite because they look a certain way. Banning breeds will only punish responsible owners and innocent dogs, while those whose recklessness endangers others will ignore the law or simply switch to a different breed. Successful dangerous dog legislation, in states like Illinois, focuses on the responsibility of the owner and on the dog’s behavior, rather than its appearance.

As a pit bull owner and a Michigan taxpayer, I would be happy to work with you on alternative legislation that can achieve our common goal of enhancing public safety based on a deeper understanding of the issue.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Feldstein

Resident of Ypsilanti, Michigan

Pit Bull Rescue Central President

Saving Audie

If you are looking for a great family and pit bull friendly book, check out "Saving Audie". This book highlights Audie, a former Vick dog, and his journey from a fearful dog to a breed ambassador.

His website is: www.savingaudie.com

He even has his own Facebook page!

This brave, adorable dog is getting lots of well deserved publicity! Check out the links below with just some of the reviews:

From Best Friends Animal Shelter website about the book: http://network.bestfriends.org/campaigns/pitbulls/16600/news.aspx

Here's the review from Publishers Weekly: Saving Audie: A Pit Bull Puppy Gets a Second Chance

“This polished photo-essay by frequent collaborators Patent and Muñoz will tug at the heartstrings of readers--especially those sympathetic to the plight of the often-maligned pit bull. In cogent, conversational prose, the author chronicles the rehabilitation journey of one of the dogs rescued in 2007 from NFL quarterback Michael Vick's illegal dogfighting operation. Named Audie by his eventual owners, the dog first spent months caged in a shelter until animal rights groups successfully petitioned the courts to allow the rescued pit bulls to be tested to determine if they were safe to handle. Placed in a permanent home, Audie gradually learned to trust people and get along with other dogs. After undergoing knee surgery, he began training for agility competitions and, in a satisfying cap to his success story, now acts as a "canine coach," helping shy and fearful dogs. Muñoz's crisp, candid photos include many endearing shots of Audie--both solo and interacting with humans and other rescued dogs. Bright backgrounds and caption-like commentary keep this uplifting and informational book lively.” – Publishers Weekly

And the starred review from School Library Journal:

“This is the story of one dog’s journey from NFL star quarterback Michael Vick’s insidious dog-fighting kennel to a good home. With the help of animal-rights groups like the ASPCA and BAD RAP (Bay Area Doglovers Responsible About Pit Bulls), Audie was tested, trained, and taken into foster care. His foster family identified his needs and potential, and continued his training until they found Linda and William, who loved and adopted him. Patent and Muñoz bring to life each step of progress and show how the bandy-legged, shoe-chewing puppy grew and graduated from Canine Good Citizen and obedience classes. Due to court-ordered reparations pertaining to the Vick case, the pup received knee surgery that allowed him to participate in agility work that turned out to be one of his talents. From cowering against a wall to learning self-esteem, the pit bull became a coach to other dogs learning to live with people and animals. This book has a positive impact to counteract the myths about the breed. The back matter includes information about pit bulls, BAD RAP, advocates of the breed, the Vick case time line, and a list ‘for further reading and surfing.’” – School Library Journal

Hot Cars and Loose Pets ~ From the AVMA

(No, it's not the name of the latest tell-all tabloid bestseller. We're talking about seriously risky situations that happen every day, but are entirely preventable.)

Download these posters

High resolution
Low resolution


High resolution
Low resolution

Brutus, Duke, Coco, Lola and Jake...sure, they're fairly common pet names, but they're also the names of just a few of the pets that died last year because they were left in cars on warm (and not necessarily hot) days while their owners were shopping, visiting friends or family, or running errands. What's so tragic is that these beloved pets were simply the victims of bad judgment.

Want numbers? An independent study¹ showed that the interior temperature of vehicles parked in outside temperatures ranging from 72 to 96° F rose steadily as time increased. And cracking the windows doesn't help.

Elapsed time	Temperature rise inside vehicle
10 minutes	19°F
20 minutes	29°F
30 minutes	34°F
60 minutes	43°F
1 to 2 hours	45-50°F

Click here to view an animated video of the temperature rise in a car over time.
(Courtesy ggweather.com/heat)

...add to that the fact that most pets are not properly restrained while in the car, and you've got some dangerous situations – for people and pets alike. Unrestrained pets can be seriously or fatally injured, or could even hurt you, in a collision or sudden braking situation. In addition, they're a distraction for the driver, which increases the risk of driver errors. According to a 2010 American Automobile Association (AAA) survey, 2 out of 3 owners engage in distracting behaviors (playing with, feeding or petting their dog, or letting their dog sit in their lap) when pets are in the car...and according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 20% of injury crashes involve distracted driving.

Please don't become another statistic: only take your pets in the vehicle with you when you absolutely need to, and always properly restrain your pets while in the vehicle.

How can you help prevent these injuries and deaths?

• Learn more about keeping your pet safe during travel;
• Set a good example by leaving your pet(s) at home except when you need to have them in the vehicle;
• Set a good example by always properly restraining your own pet(s) while in a vehicle;
• Educate clients, family and friends about these issues and how they can keep their pet(s) safe;
• Download and distribute our posters to help educate pet owners about the dangers of hot vehicles and lack of restraint:

Other AVMA resources:

MyVeterinarian.com: Pets in Vehicles (information for pet owners about the risks associated with pets in vehicles)

FAQs about Traveling with Your Pet

7 Sneaky Ways to Keep Pets Slim

According to the latest veterinary surveys, more than half our nation’s dogs and cats are overweight. This means almost 90 million pets are at a higher risk for developing arthritis, diabetes, kidney and heart disease, high blood pressure, and many forms of cancer. So how can you slim down your super -sized pet and reduce its risk of these serious diseases? The answer is easier than you think. These seven tips can help you trim excess pounds off your pet and keep her healthy.

1. CALCULATE CALORIES If you don’t know how many calories your pet needs each day, you don’t know how much food to offer. And don’t think you can trust the bag—feeding guidelines are formulated for active, adult, unspayed or unneutered dogs and cats. This means that if you your pet is an older, spayed or neutered, indoor lap lounger, you’ll likely be overfeeding by 20 percent to 30 percent if you’re following the manufacturer’s instructions. Instead, ask your veterinarian to calculate the number of calories your pet needs each day. Or use this formula: Divide your pet’s weight in pounds by 2.2. Multiply this figure by 30. Then add 70. This number will give you a good idea of how many calories a typical inactive, indoor, spayed or neutered pet needs. Of course, each pet’s metabolism is different, so consult your veterinarian before starting your pet on a diet.

2. MEASURE MEALS Your greatest tool in the fight against a pet’s excess weight is a measuring cup. Too many pet owners simply fill the bowl or guesstimate how much they’re feeding. Studies have shown that feeding as few as 10 extra kibbles of food per day can add up to a pound of weight gain in a year for indoor cats and small dogs. Keep in mind that for the average 10-pound cat or small dog, this is a 10 percent weight gain. After you calculate how many calories your pet needs, determine how much food you should feed at each meal—and measure it.

3. VITAL VEGGIES I’m not against treats; I’m against junky treats. Too many pet treats are calorie grenades laden with sugar and fat. If you’re going to give your pets extra goodies, choose low-calorie, sugar-free options with health benefits. I recommend single-ingredient treats like sweet potatoes or functional treats that help keep teeth clean or promote mobility. As an alternative to highly processed store-bought treats, try offering dogs baby carrots, green beans, celery, cucumbers, sliced apples and bananas, and ice cubes. For cats, try a flake of salmon or tuna. While you’re at it, put down the potato chips and share a carrot with your pooch. You’ll both be healthier for it.

4. TREAT TACTICALLY Whatever treats you give, be sure to count those calories. Many pet owners feed the proper amount of food but sabotage their efforts by adding treats throughout the day. As few as 30 extra calories per day means your pet may gain three pounds in a year.

5. HUSTLE FOR HEALTH When it comes to a long, pain- and disease-free life, research proves our most powerful partner is daily exercise. For dogs, as little as 20 to 30 minutes of daily brisk walking is all it takes to boost immune function, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce many behavioral problems. For cats, try playing chase (using a laser pointer, remote-controlled toy, or ball of paper) for five to 15 minutes each day.

6. SMART SUPPLEMENTS When it comes to keeping fit and trim, supplements may help. Many dogs, cats, and people can benefit from taking a daily omega-3 fatty acid supplement. These powerful fish oils pack a potent antioxidant punch that has been proven to help prevent numerous diseases. In addition, they may help ease achy joints and encourage weight loss. L-carnitine has been shown to aid weight loss and promote lean muscle mass. Ask your veterinarian if these supplements make sense for your cat or dog.

7. CUT DOWN ON CARBS Most pet cats and dogs don’t need a high -carbohydrate diet, yet that’s exactly what most of us feed them. Instead, look for low- or no-grain options with a protein source as the first ingredient. Your veterinarian can recommend the best food for your cat or dog. As a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to help your cat or dog maintain a healthy weight. Even though they might love eating pizza and ice cream every day, you know that’s not smart. It’s up to you to feed healthy, nutritious foods and treats and to exercise your pet daily. By using these seven simple suggestions, you’ll be on your way to your pet’s best—and healthiest—year yet.

May 15-21 is Dog Bite Prevention Week

The week of May 15-21 is Dog Bite Prevention week. Dogs and children can become lifelong friends. However, no child should ever be left unattended around a dog. Most children are at a height in which they are at eye level with dogs. If a dog is aggressive or is uncomfortable with interaction and is not properly managed, it can result in a bite.

Dog bites can be prevented by managing both four and two legged companions. Most bites can be easily prevented. Always keep interactions between dogs and humans (especially small ones!) a positive experience.It is always a good idea to be aware of your dog’s body language. Teaching your dog basic manners helps to ensure safe interactions with children. It is also important to teach children how to safely interact with dogs.

Dr Sophia Yin has wonderful information regarding canine body language. Click here.

Our own Poppy’s Place offers information on dog safety. Click here for a great article written by Karen Peak:.

Be Kind To Animals Week 2011

We love our family pets.They provide companionship, affection, humor and so much more in our daily lives. The month of April was Anti Cruelty towards Animals month. The first week in May celebrate national Be Kind to Animals week.

Below are just some ways to celebrate:

Help a local shelter or rescue by donating needed items or your time. Many local organizations have wish lists to make a dog waiting for its forever home more comfortable. This may include: unopened food, blankets, towels or toys. Volunteering your time can also make the difference in a dog's life. Click here to see if there is a shelter or rescue near you.

Speak for the animals by reviewing legislation that can affect the care or well being of beloved pets. From puppy mills to breed specific legislation, one can usually find a cause that hits close to home. Well written letters are recommended.

Sponsor a dog in need. PBRC has thousands of Pit Bulls waiting to find their forever home on our website. By featuring a dog, it can help promote that dog's adoption. To feature a Pit Bull on our site go to: http://pbrc.net/dom.html

Report any cruelty witnessed to save a dog from neglect or abuse. Contacting local humane agents or authorities is a only phone call away. Click here for our recent What Can I Do? blog for more info.

On a lighter note, spoiling your dog is also an acceptable way to celebrate! PBRC's Poppy Shop offers lots of fun ways for you and your dog to celebrate and help the dogs of PBRC! http://www.pbrc.net/shop/shop.html