Help PBRC while you shop!

If you love Pit Bull Rescue Central, you can support us while you shop! The Pit Bull Rescue Central Visa Platinum Rewards Card is available now, and you can apply for yours at this link. For every approved card that’s used within 90 days of activation, the bank donates $50 to PBRC. After that, a percentage from each purchase will be donated to PBRC. Better yet, every time you hand over your card to a cashier, you’re providing good breed PR because you get to customize your card with one of five adorable, pit-positive images. For more details on the card, click here.

PBRC now accepting entries for our Happy Endings 2013 calendar!

Have you ever envisioned your rescued pit bull gracing the pages of a calendar? Does your pup have good looks, charm, a touching story, really cute costumes or an affinity for sports? If so, here is your chance to make your dreams a reality and share your rescued pit bull with the world!

We are opening submissions for PBRC's 2013 Happy Endings Calendar! An annual tradition since 2002, our Happy Endings Calendar is full of accurate breed information, heart-warming rescue stories, and 12 months of beautiful color photographs of our supporters’ rescued pit bulls! We are accepting pictures now through June 30, 2012.

All the information you need regarding photo specifications, submission, cost, and other details can be found here.

All the proceeds from the photo submissions, as well as the sale of the calendars, are used to further PBRC’s programming to help pit bulls in need. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to have your furry friend be a pin-up and to help others in need.

Window to the Soul - A PBRC Vol Helping Out in MO

Both of my visits to Missouri made an impression on me, that I will never forget.

Upon each visit, the first thing I notice is the eyes. Some happy, sad, anxious, or pleading, but all telling a story of what they had been through. It is not hard to form an attachment to these dogs in such a brief period of time. So many different personalities and needs, yet each one easy to remember with clarity. Some are overly exuberant to greet you, others subdued and shy. Some have a fun, mischievous look. Most displayed the amazing temperament and resilience that Pit Bulls are known for even after the atrocities they had been through.

The look in the eyes of the dogs after they are fed, their crate or kennel is cleaned is priceless. As are the too short moments where one is able to give these dogs affection and a sense of peace and love by holding the dogs and speaking soft words. Those moments are what these dogs need.

Another thing that stood out regarding this situation is the teamwork, hard work and dedication of those individual volunteers who have been there from the start. These people work hard and still find the time to make dogs, once viewed in their former life as a commodity, feel loved. They are heroes not looking for any type of publicity, self promotion or recognition. They are there as advocates for these dogs, a voice for those who cannot speak.

~ AmyD

Once Heroes, Now Banned

How the “pit bull” is now discriminated against by the United States military

By Lynn Ready, Best Friends Network Volunteer

During World War I, they were the all-American dogs pictured on posters as a symbol of our country. In the Civil War era, they were known as nurse dogs, because they were so good with children. Once recognized as a representation of courage in the United States military, American pit bull terriers like Stubby and numerous others, have won medals such as the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

Such history seems to have now been forgotten, as the government is now implementing breed discrimination at many military bases throughout the country, focusing on what they term as “aggressive or potentially aggressive breeds of dogs,” including “pit bulls (American Staffordshire bull terriers or English Staffordshire bull terriers), Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, chows, and wolf hybrids.”

The Pentagon submitted a memorandum on January 5, 2009, stating that the above listed breeds may not be kept on any military based housing in the Army. The Air Force has also enacted a breed discriminatory policy and the Navy is next. While policy, this knee-jerk reaction is similar to BDL (Breed Discriminatory Legislation), which targets the wrong end of the leash. Instead, the military should be looking at reckless owners, not a particular breed of dog.

For those who already own one of the banned breeds, they are “grandfathered” in, but on military bases such as Fort Hood, TX, Fort Bragg, NC, and Fort Benning, GA, soldiers and families are banned from owning certain breeds of dogs. Even grandfathering in a dog that is already in base housing does not necessarily provide safe haven, because soldiers typically move every two or three years and will not be able to take their dog to their next installation. Then where does the dog go? Abandoned? To a local shelter where there is already serious overpopulation?

Sergeant’s Dog Seized from Denver, a City With BDL
Heidi Tufto, animal advocate and Staff Sergeant in the United States Army for eleven years, knows this story all too well. Her American pit bull terrier, Lumpy, was taken from her. As so many soldiers are, Heidi was transferred and moved to Denver. Little did she know that one of her three dogs was not welcome in the city.

After living in Denver for only three days, Lumpy was seized from Riverfront Park, where Heidi was walking him, and taken to the local animal shelter and held. A witness, an elderly immigrant from Germany, said it was like the Gestapo with two men dragging Lumpy into their van and allowing her other dogs to get loose to roam the streets, while Heidi was held at gun-point.

Eventually after paying steep fines, appearing in court, and going through a painful experience, she was able to get a friend who lived outside the city to save Lumpy. The dog then stayed with Heidi’s mom until her lease ended so that she could leave Denver and be reunited with her Certified Therapy Dog, Lumpy.

All Heidi kept thinking through the entire painful ordeal was that she was serving her country, having been deployed to Iraq, Kuwait, Asia, Turkey, and Israel - yet this was how they repaid her. Heidi continues to fight Breed Discriminatory Legislation (BDL), and when she retires from the Army, will volunteer at a low-cost/free spay/neuter programs for pets.

Leaving Military Families Distraught
Lynn Lynde, a volunteer with Pit Bull Rescue Central, is very familiar with the ban on military bases, as her husband is a sixteen year, highly decorated war veteran, currently serving in the U.S. Army. They are the proud owners of three American pit bull terriers. Soldiers contact Lynn daily, appalled that they cannot bring along their best friend, sometimes the only thing they have left. She also knows of soldiers who are getting out of the military, due to the ruling. “They are completely mortified that their country wants to repay them for their sacrifices by killing their dogs.”

She also points out the already high incidents of divorce rates in military families as well as the epidemic of soldier suicides. In many cases, their dog is their only remaining companion. Think of the children. These are kids who have a parent or both parents in harm’s way on a daily basis, have to move to a new town, go to a new school and make new friends every few years and the one constant has been the family dog. Now someone tells the child that the dog can not move with them because it is deemed “dangerous.”

Many of the dogs who are traditional assistance dogs, aiding those with physical handicaps when soldiers return from war, are American pit bull terriers. In fact, the Canines for Combat Wounded organization specializes in placing pit bull therapy dogs with returning soldiers suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. So how is it that we can use these dogs for therapy and healing for the soldiers, but not even allow one as a pet?

Lynn added, “Soldiers go to war not only to protect the United States, but also to free people from oppression throughout the world. They encounter people gravely suffering due to discrimination based on race, creed, or religion, and yet their own leaders have condemned their best friends on the same short sighted and erroneous belief system.”

Lynn and her husband have decided that, although unlikely, if he were to ever be transferred to a base with a breed discriminatory policy, she would stay behind with their dogs. To them, it’s the only choice. Lynde states, "He has sworn to protect this country and I have sworn to protect our family. Our dogs are our family and I would move to the ends of the earth to protect them so that he can stay focused while defending our nation."

When speaking of her husband’s six deployments, she notes how her pit bulls have centered her. “Sure, other dogs can provide companionship, but pit bulls are so loyal and so goofy that they never allow me to sulk and get depressed. Throughout my husband’s deployments I have felt fear, anxiety, and insurmountable sorrow at the loss of many of our friends, but because of my pit bull companions, I have not once felt lonely.”

Holding Owners Responsible Would be More Effective
Just as there are responsible dog owners and reckless ones everywhere, military bases are no exception. Sadly, there are those who will dump their dog at times of deployment and others who are breeding uncontrollably. Enforcing spay/neuter laws and mandatory micro-chipping are two ways that can help prevent the problem. Officials and veterinarians at Fort Bragg noted that there was at one time mandatory spay/neuter laws, as well as laws against breeding on military bases, but apparently these laws were never enforced.

Holding owners responsible would be much more effective than incorporating breed discrimination, which has never been proven to be effective anywhere.

Government Stamp of Approval?
If you think just because you don’t live on a military base, that this does not affect you, think again. This can easily be interpreted as the federal government putting their stamp of approval that some breeds are dangerous dogs. Cities surrounding these bases may start to pass BDL based on this idea. Once one city passes it, the city next to it might do the same, and so on. BDL has affected many cities and even entire states throughout the United States. The ramifications are horrendous, and now it is affecting the men and women who are protecting us.

The Cause is Unclear
Where did it come from? How did it all start? Was it the government? Speculation leans towards the privatized housing that provides most military base housing. Could it be that the companies who provide the housing is the one causing the whole problem? Is it possible that they associate certain breeds of dogs with irresponsible owners such as the media portrays?

Bill Mulvey, Vice President of Communications at Picerne Military Housing, gave assurances that they are pet-friendly. He also said that Picerne suggested to the Pentagon that they propose a policy that is uniform on every base, since some enforced breed bans on certain dogs while others did not. Sadly, it looks as though that blanket ban is the route they took.

BSL is Not Effective
Municipalities such as Baltimore, Maryland have deemed BDL as ineffective at lowering risks of dog bites or attacks. A total of over $750,000 was spent in Baltimore in 2001 to enforce the legislation, only to find out that it is not even effective. That money could be spent on more positive ways of enforcing stricter rules against irresponsible dog owners or to offer free or low cost spay/neuter programs. Other things that can be done are to allow permanently anchored fencing, enforce laws against breeding on military bases, and mandatory micro-chipping.

Even studies of pre and post breed bans in the United Kingdom and Spain have concluded that prohibiting “pit bulls” did not reduce the number of dog bites occurring.

The slogan of the Green Berets, special operations unit in the military, is "De Oppresso Libre" which means "Free the Oppressed" and their mascot is the American pit bull terrier. Another way to think about it; if Theodore Roosevelt and General Patton were alive today, they would not be allowed to have their dogs on a military base.

Lynde says, "My biggest complaint about being a military wife, who owns pit bulls, is that when my husband calls from overseas, he often asks about them before he asks about me." She adds, “It sickens me that while he should be worried about IEDs; instead he's worried that some official in the U.S. is going to ban his dogs."

WHAT YOU CAN DO:
► Write a letter to President Barack and Michelle Obama, as well as Army officials. You may contact the President and the First Lady here or send an e-mail to comments@whitehouse.gov and put the appropriate name in the subject line. To comment to the Army, contact Ms. Joyce VanSlyke at joyce.vanslyke@us.army.mil.

Please keep your contact polite, professional and educational. Encourage other alternatives such as:

• Consider mandatory micro-chipping. Fine those who abandon their dogs.
• Encourage a law prohibiting dogs from being alone in a yard without supervision, until permanently anchored fencing is allowed on military based housing.
• Enforce mandatory spay/neuter programs for all pets on military based housing.
• Enact higher fines for those who breed dogs on military bases.
• You can also join the Stop Breed Specific Legislation community on the Best Friends Network.
• Teach the community, particularly children, about responsible dog ownership and care. Offer humane educators to speak.

For more information:
• Memorandum on Pet Policy for Privatized Housing Under the Army’s Residential Communities Initiative

Photo credit: provided courtesy of Lynn Lynde

ASPCA® Lets Pet-Loving Public Choose the Grand Prize Winner of its Meet Your Match® “Adopt-a-Bull” Contest

Online Vote Runs Entire Month of February; Celebrates Perfect Pit Bull Adoption Matches

NEW YORK -- The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that animal lovers everywhere will have the power to cast their vote online at www.ASPCA.org/AdoptABull for which perfect pit bull match should be the grand prize winner of the ASPCA®’s Meet Your Match® “Adopt-a-Bull” Contest.

“Our vision for the Adopt-a-Bull Contest was to highlight the positive attributes and merits of the American Pit Bull Terrier,” said ASPCA President & CEO, Ed Sayres. “The ASPCA’s Meet Your Match program really highlights how important it is to make strong, long-lasting adoption matches between pets and people, and these four extraordinary stories are perfect examples of that bond.”

The four-[legged] finalists who are eligible to become the grand prize winner of the ASPCA®’s Meet Your Match® “Adopt-A-Bull” Contest are:

• Wanda – a black and white pit bull from the SPCA of Wake County in Raleigh, N.C., and her pet parent Elizabeth Bartow. Wanda enjoys parading her good behavior around town as a Delta Society Therapy Dog, and showcasing a happy wiggle known as the “butt-tuck-boogie.”

• Lola – a high energy American Pit Bull Terrier from Humane Society of Silicon Valley in Silicon Valley, Calif., and her pet parent Lark McIntosh. Lola has become a canine member of the “Pitty Committee,” a local Calif. group dedicated to promoting the amazing traits of pit bulls and pit bull mixes.

• Elsie – a high energy American Pit Bull Terrier from the Western Pa. Humane Society in Pittsburgh, Pa., and her pet parents Becky and Herb Torbin, who fell in love with Elsie’s affectionate and happy nature.

• Gunther, a.k.a. Ghost – a calm and gentle deaf pit bull from the Humane Society of South Mississippi in Gulfport, Miss., and his pet parent Rebecca Hengen. Rebecca hopes to enroll Gunther in some dog training classes, possibly with the long term plan of teaching him to be a therapy dog.

The Adopt-a-Bull contest ran throughout the year 2008, with one winner announced each quarter. Each of the four winners has been automatically entered into a contest for the grand prize. The public is encouraged to head to www.ASPCA.org/AdoptABull to vote for their favorite pit bull adoption match. The online vote will run until the end of February, at which point the votes will be tallied and a grand prize winner will be chosen.

“We are thrilled to be able to share these four heart-warming pit bull adoption stories with the public through this online vote to find a grand prize winner,” said Jane Berkey, President of Animal Farm Foundation. “The ASPCA’s Meet Your Match program values these dogs as individuals, and honors their incredible spirit. Pit bulls are just dogs: four legs, two eyes, one heart.”

The grand prize shelter winner will receive an all expenses paid trip to New York City in April 2009 to participate in the ASPCA’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month celebration and a $5000 grant for their shelter. The grand prize pet-parent winner will receive a photo shoot with a professional photographer and a bronze of their pet.

The “Adopt-a-Bull” Contest, sponsored by Animal Farm Foundation, seeks to recognize and celebrate American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers and dogs that appear to be predominantly of that type living in loving homes that were matched with their owners through the ASPCA®’s Meet Your Match® Canine-ality™ Adoption Program. The ASPCA®’s Meet Your Match® program is a scientific, research-based adoption tool aimed at creating better matches between prospective pet parents and animals based on accurate behavior assessments for the animals and understanding an individual adopter’s lifestyle and expectations. The program has proven to be extremely successful in increasing adoptions and reducing returns at shelters.

To cast your vote, or for more information about the ASPCA®’s Meet Your Match® “Adopt-a-Bull” Contest, please visit www.ASPCA.org/AdoptABull.

Positively Pit Bull

When I adopted my first pit bull, Scooby, I received all sorts of training advice, some solicited and some not. Among the advice I was given by 'experts' was "you need to alpha roll her to show her who's boss!" and "put a choke collar on that dog!" and my favorite, "you need to have Schutzhund control of that pit bull!" That last comment was blurted out to us by an instructor in our first agility class, where Scooby had trouble focusing because of her reactivity to certain dogs. I left that last class in tears and went home and looked up Schutzhund because I had no idea what the instructor was talking about. I didn't know much about training methods yet, but the idea of sitting on my dog or choking her didn't sit well with me, and I knew there had to be some other ways I could train my dog. I was a new dog owner with an adolescent pit bull who was high energy, highly prey-driven, intermittently reactive to other dogs, and stormphobic to boot. Not exactly the best mix for a first time dog owner. Sure, I lived with dogs throughout my childhood; a German Shephered that reportedly taught me to walk, and later, a Shih Tzu. I don't remember the Shepherd as I was too small. And what little responsiblity I had as a child growing up with a Shih-Tzu certainly didn't prepare me for the 40 lb, muscular, intelligent and strong willed female pit bull I had selected for my first dog ownership experience.

Scooby and I later enrolled in a local obedience class and the trainers there used treats and praise as rewards, and I felt like my dog and I were learning and having a good time. It felt GOOD and it confirmed what I knew in my heart: I don't have to use force or intimidation to control my dog's behavior and I don't have to hurt my dog when teaching a new skill!

Now, a little background may help explain why I was so pleasantly surprised to find out about the use of rewards in dog training. For many years, I worked with people with developmental disabilities, specifically with youth and adults who engaged in self-injurious and aggressive behavior. I worked in clinic settings where functional behavioral analyses were conducted to determine the motive or gain for a behavior so that a treatment plan could be specifically designed to change it. The treatment plans were based directly on the analysis, and the result was that the patient learned new behaviors and new ways to communicate that were not harmful to himself or others, but that also earned him the desired reinforcement. In both my clinic work and later in schools, where I taught children with emotional and behavior disorders, I found repeatedly that consistent application of positive reinforcement does work and can result in changes in behavior! And, in addition, the use of positive reinforcement not only helps when teaching new skills, but it also helps build relationships.

Building Relationships... (Todd Adamson photo credit)

People who truly love their dogs, and who love to train, know that training your dog isn't just about learning a new trick...it's about building a relationship with your dog. Creating new ways to communicate. Working new muscles, firing the neurons, and opening a dialogue between human and canine. When you use positive reinforcement methods to train, I believe it encourages you to think about your dog - what makes him happy? what does he like? what is motivating to him today? It forces you to think about your dog in a way that other methods don't. The positive trainer is proactive. On the other end of the spectrum, when you use aversives, in my opinion, your training is reactive based. The aversive trainer is trying to stop behavior that he/she finds undesirable. And the mindset is to correct, not to prevent, not to teach. Aside from being damaging to the dog physically and emotionally, this type of training - to me - reflects a real lack of creativity and flexibility.

Let's give an example of something I observed recently. A handler was walking a dog and the dog began to bark in an unpleasant manner as another dog walked by. The handler - a reactive one who has clearly been schooled in using punishment - immediately began popping and jerking the dog's collar and hissing like a snake in the manner of a well known TV celebrity. The dog continued to bark. The handler continued to pop and hiss. This cycle was repeated; it was as if the reactive handler was stuck and could not think of another option to try, so the handler kept repeating a method that clearly wasn't working. A positive trainer - and a really good one - is proactive. He/she is thinking ahead: there's another dog, er, another training opportunity. The proactive trainer thinks of possible scenarios....'the dog I am handling may bark at that passing dog, what can I do to prevent this behavior?' He/she may turn the dog around, work on some attention, ask for a sit, play a hand touch game, play a find the treat on the ground game. Many, many possibilities - and none of them result in hurting the dog, and they all engage the dog in a task that is rewarding or building a skill that is desirable.

Training doesn't have to mean spending lots of money or going to a class. As a dog owner, you have access to all the fun things your dog wants and needs: food, water, treats, toys, walks, play time, grooming, snuggling, etc. All of these things - and more - can be rewards that your dog earns for simple obedience in your daily activities.

Over the years, I have taught my dogs many things using positive reinforcement. I'm sure, they have taught me much more. I encourage dog owners to train, whether it be in class, at home, on the sidewalk, in the park, wherever you choose. The skills you teach and the activities you do with your dog are up to you, and frankly, are secondary to the real objective: the quality time spent with your dog. Smile at your dog, praise your dog, treat your dog, walk your dog, love your dog and have fun together learning something new. ~Andrea Kilkenny

Dog, Pit Bull, Trinity: Did Cesar Erase the Aggression?

I've watched Cesar's show on NGC for years. While I don't subscribe to most of his techniques, I'll admit, they make for good television. After his most recent, hour-long episode involving pit bulls, Trinity and Sandi, and owners, Monica and Justin, I wanted to comment.

For those who missed the episode, I'll summarize it...

Monica and Justin have two female pit bulls, Trinity and Sandi, both 2-2.5 yrs of age. The girls used to get along, until one day, they did not. After a number of blood-drawing fights, the owners separate the dogs full-time. They buy a new home that enables them to separate the dogs more easily. The dogs sleep in separate crates and have separate yards. The routine they establish is working and there isn't a fight for months.

They contact Cesar because they want the dogs to get along and play together like they used to. Cesar meets the dogs and determines Trinity is the one in need of reform which can only be accomplished at the center. After 2 months at the compound, Cesar is ready to reintroduce Monica and Justin to a reformed Trinity. They meet in the hills at the site of Cesar's future dog psychology center. Cesar has a pack of his dogs running loose along with Trinity when Monica and Justin arrive. As soon as they exit their car and Trinity realizes her people are there, she grabs onto another pit bull. This starts a chain reaction among the other pit bulls in the pack and several other fights ensue. Cesar and crew manage to get everyone separated.

The incident prompts Cesar to offer Monica and Justin a trade -- he suggests they leave Trinity with him for life and take one of the other dogs in his pack. While Cesar, Monica and Justin are discussing the offer in a cramped trailer, Trinity latches onto Daddy. Cesar manages to separate the dogs and expresses his concern about Monica and Justin's ability to own a dog like her. Monica and Justin decide to think about Cesar's offer. They do some fitness and stop smoking in an effort to be stronger pack leaders. Final footage shows Trinity and Sandi hiking off-leash and drinking out of the same hose together.

My Thoughts...

There are several scenes of dogs fighting in this episode that are replayed, ad nauseum, with warnings attached. Do we need this visual repeated over and over to know how awful it is? And, where were the breaksticks? The quickest way to end a pit bull fight with the least amount of damage to the dogs is to use breaksticks.

Cesar attributes the fights to Monica and Justin's 'energy.' Then he suggests they aren't fit to own such a powerful dog and, with no apparent concern for their feelings or attachment to their pet, offers to trade them one of his for one of theirs. People appeal to him for help in the first place because they want to keep their pets, not trade them in.

Cesar infers that all dogs can live peacefully in packs with a human pack leader in charge. He suggests that dogs will follow their natural canine instincts to be part of a pack over their breed hard-wiring. This may work at the dog-psychology center when Cesar's there to administer corrections with military precision, but what about when he's out of the office?

Suggesting that two dogs who've previously fought can snuggle and play together is not possible without constant, expert supervision and, even then, it may not be possible. And, to think Trinity's dog-aggression was 'erased' by hanging out in Cesar's garage with a non-threatening puppy and several tiny, terrified dogs is ludicrous. Hard-wiring can not be loved, trained or socialized out of a dog. Just as the instinct to herd is strong in Collies and the drive to fetch is high in Retrievers, the instinct to scrap with other dogs is ever-present in terriers. To ignore or downplay this fact does a disservice to the dogs and sets them up to fail.

Cesar does promote daily exercise as well as setting rules, boundaries and limitations. And, while Cesar doesn't claim to be a dog-trainer, much of what he does relies on the dogs' responding to basic obedience commands, so he is indirectly promoting good obedience. And, he's begun promoting spay/neuter! These practices are truly the core of developing a healthy bond between dog and owner.

In the end, Justin and Monica remain committed to their dog and refuse Cesar's offer to trade in Trinity for a less-powerful model. This couple is a great example of what responsible dog-ownership is all about. I hope they realize they were fine before they met Cesar and will continue to be capable owners and leaders for Trinity and Sandi.

~ Sanya

'Tis the Season!

Happy Halloween!

A little forethought can keep all the pibbles safe tonight. Keep the treats for the Trick-or-Treaters only, as candy and chocolate can be deadly to dogs. Make sure your dogs can't escape when the door bell rings.

And if your dog is the nervous type, block their view of the ghouls, goblins, witches, and Michael Vicks. Tonight is a great night for a special Kong to be savored in their crate.

Have fun!

2008 Happy Endings Calendar!

We are pleased to announce that PBRC's 2008 Happy Endings Calendar is now on sale! It is a 12-month, full-color calendar brimming with gorgeous, rescued pit bulls of all shapes, sizes, and colors.

You can order your copy of the 2008 calendar by clicking here: PBRC's Cafe Press Store

Remember that all of the proceeds from the sale of the calendars are used to help pit bulls in need. Please don't miss out on this great opportunity to fill your 2008 with pittie smiles while helping needy pit bulls at the same time.

2nd Annual Howl-o-ween Costume Contest!

Announcing Pit Bull Rescue Central's 2nd Annual Howl-o-ween Costume Contest!

To enter your favorite festooned fido in our contest send a photo to pbrccontest@pbrc.net

Once all pictures are received they will be put into a gallery for all to see and vote on.
Halloween Hound Gallery

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

Please submit your photos no later than October 24, 2007. Multiple entries welcome, but please submit only one photo per dog. Contest entries limited to pit bull dogs.

Good luck and may the best bully costume win!

Bully Awareness Day - October 20th

Are you getting tired of all the negative publicity pit bulls are getting? How about all of the irresponsible and uneducated pit bull owners out there? If so, here's your chance to make a difference!

On October 20th, 2007, responsible pit bull owners and advocates around the country can make their voices heard! On this day we will celebrate the first national Pit Bull Awareness Day. It's about time that we showed the public that not all pit bull owners are alike! We are not criminals, thugs or dog fighters. We are not people with low self-esteems that need a strong dog to bolster our fragile egos. Let's set the record straight once and for all! Let's show the public that people from all walks of life, from celebrities to soccer moms, own and responsibly manage pit bulls! Let's show them that our dogs are members of our families and that we are not going to be bullied by breed specific legislation.

Regardless of where you are located, please choose an activity to participate in on October 20, 2007 to promote and celebrate responsible pit bull ownership. It can be a breed education rally, a dog walk & wash, a pet parade or a candle light vigil. The possibilities are endless! Regardless of the activity you choose, please sign up to participate so people in your area know and can participate and promote responsible ownership with you. Please visit the Bless the Bullys website to sign up.

Many thanks to Jodi and Bless the Bullys for launching this important campaign. On October 20th, let's make sure our voices are heard across the nation!

Poppy Mart 2007 Coming Soon!

Can you believe a whole year has passed! PBRC's on-line auction, Poppy Mart 2007, is just about here! Starting September 11th, 2007, Pit Bull Rescue Central, Inc. (PBRC), a 501(c)3 organization, will be holding its fourth on-line auction--Poppy Mart 2007. Since last years was such a success we are once again using eBay as our venue.

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.

Through the generosity of many retail vendors, volunteers, and friends we will once again be offering lots of exciting items for auction! Dog stuff, people stuff, gifts, jewelry and collectibles. There is something for every taste and wallet.

We encourage you to register now, so you will be ready to bid early and often! To register for the auction click here.

(Note: Everyone bidding needs to register with eBay.) You will be sent a link directly to our store once the auction starts. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at fundraising@pitbullinfo.net

Guest Blogger - In Whose Yard the Dog Sits

Animal lover or not, it would take someone with a heart of stone to read the details of the crimes Michael Vick committed against the pit bull dogs in his “care” and not feel sick. While the media talk about how much “time he’ll do” and whether or not he’ll ever play in the NFL again, there is one vital piece of information missing from the equation…this isn’t about Michael Vick, it’s about the dogs.

Michael Vick is not the only dog fighter in the United States, not the only man who has made money off the dog' backs while feeding his own warped ego. Not the only one who has tortured and killed innocent dogs on a regular basis. Michael Vick is just symptom, a blip on the radar screen, of a cancer in desperate need of a cure. While the Pundits debate and the NFL Public Relations Machine wrings its hands, thousands of other "Michael Vicks," black and white, rich and poor, in neighborhoods urban and rural, are committing the same crimes against pit bull dogs that Vick did. The question remains, will the Feds come for them too or will the presently very public fight against the crime of dog fighting end with Vick? And if they do continue, who will speak for victims who can not speak for themselves, the dogs? What will become of them? Will their lives be better for our intervening on their behalf or will it be more of the same. Death, not death in the pit, but death on the end of a snare pole perhaps, death without compassion, death just the same. Will all of the dogs continue to be victimized twice? Killed by their masters because they wouldn't fight, killed by those who rescued them because they might? The dogs are left with nowhere to stand, pawns in a cruel game of guilt by association.

So I ask you, when does the dog in the fight, the innocent pit bull dog who has not asked for any of this, when does he finally get to win? When does he get the same care and compassion as any other pet? When does the pit bull dog, get be to be viewed as simply what he is, a dog, who like all canines, desires a warm hearth, plenty of food and a person to call his own?

Michael Vick’s story and the tragic story of his dogs will reach its not-so-fairy tale ending in due course. But what of the stories of all of the nameless, faceless victims of the crime of dog fighting whose masters don’t play in the NFL? What of those dogs? Who will say this doesn’t end here? Who will ensure that their stories have a happier ending than that of the Vick dogs?

I look at both of my pit bull dogs, but particularly my dog Isaac who was left to die in a dumpster, and think there but for the grace of god go they. It occurs to me that the only difference between their lives and the thousands of pet pit bulls like them and the lives of all of the pit bulls suffering in dire circumstances, is the hands into which they fell. A cruel twist of fate or a blessing from above, depending on in whose yard the dog sits.

Best regards,

Kate Fraser
Foundation Director
Animal Farm Foundation
www.animalfarmfoundation.org

PBRC Medical Tip

Pit Bull type dogs are more prone to become infected with Babesia gibsoni than any other breed and are more likely to suffer clinical infections of Babesia canis than other breeds. Here's what you should know.....

What is Babesia and what is it doing to your dog?

There are many species of Babesia, but those of most concern to Pit Bull owners are Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni. While any dog can become infected Babesia organisms, infections are most commonly found in Greyhounds and Pit Bulls. Although there are Babesia species found all over the world, in the United States B. canis and gibsoni are more prevalent in southern states. However, the transient nature of families and the transfer of dog ownership due to rescue from natural or manmade disasters, there is no state that is unaffected. Some countries do require pre export negative Babesia canis and/or gibsoni test results prior to allowing entry.

How does this happen?

An infected tick must feed on a dog for 2-3 days to transfer the babesia organism. Once this transfer occurs, the babesia organism continues to develop as it moves from the blood stream into red blood cells (rbc). When the organism matures in the rbc, that cell will rupture and release the organism in the blood stream to infect additional rbcs. The body’s own immune system will also detect the infected red blood cells and destroy them. Although Babesia is considered a tick bourne disease it can also be transmitted by dog bites, blood transfusions, contaminated needles or surgical instruments and from mother to pup.

What Babesia does?

The destruction of red blood cells can result in anemia (lack of red blood cells). Lab results may show this anemia (low rbc count), low platelet count, and other values suggestive of liver disease (hypoalbuminemia, and bilirubinuria). Initially, the anemia appears to be nonregenerative, but later is regenerative anemia. Clinical symptoms such as weakness, pale color, fever, anorexia, enlarged lymphnodes, depression, enlarged spleen, rapid pulse may be exhibited by some dogs. In dogs that have had a spleenectomy (spleens removed) or have an auto immune disorder the disease can be devastating. While many normal healthy dogs will have no outward symptoms at all, these dogs are carriers and will spread the disease to other dogs via dog bites and infecting ticks. During times of stress, due to other disease process or mental situations these dogs may also have a relapse of the disease and exhibit clinical symptoms. Dogs diagnosed with Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia should have babesia on the list of rule outs as to the cause. Also dogs that are having liver issues and/or undiagnosed liver disease should have babesia on the list of rule outs.

How is Babesia diagnosed?

Babesia organisms can be seen on a blood smear, especially a freshly drawn blood taken from a capillary source (ear, toenail). If Babesia organisms are found, the patient is definitely infected. However, the organism can be hard to find and may rarely be found in samples from chronically infected dogs or carrier dogs that aren't showing symptoms of the disease. Due to this there are other, more ideal methods for testing. Indirect fluorescent antibody
(IFA) testing is performed on serum or plasma and is used to establish antibody titers to B. canis and gibsoni. However, if it is early in the disease process or in an animal that is immune suppressed, antibodies may not be present. A titer is a measurement of the amount or concentration of antibodies in a blood sample and can be helpful in determining medical
treatment. Generally the higher the titer, the greater the infection. IFA testing is available through specialized diagnostic laboratories, such as Protatek Reference Laboratory.

http://www.protatek.com/RefLab/index2.htm

Molecular diagnosis of Babesia spp. infection in dogs and cats via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of whole blood has become available. This is an extremely sensitive test that can be used to diagnose Babesia and distinguish between the different species. However, it does not help establish the level of infection and there have been issues with false positive/negative results. To avoid this, blood samples should be collected early in the course of clinical disease,
before medications have been started and submitted to an experienced, quality lab.

When to test?

Food for thought is routinely screening Pit Bulls. One of my own dogs was negative for B. canis several years ago. Recently she tested positive. No tick exposure, no contaminated needles/ instruments, no blood transfusion. What did happen in the time in-between was an accidental fight with another of my dogs (who is positive for B. canis). Neither of my positive dogs (I also have 1 dog that has tested negative, who also has had accidental fights...) have clinical or laboratory results that indicate they have the disease. But I know that it is there and if they do have other medical or stress issues that could allow the Babesia to become a problem I know to watch for it. Any dog blood donor should be tested prior to joining a donor program and periodically during their blood donor career. Any dog intended for breeding should be tested prior to entering into a breeding relationship (both male and female) any dog with liver disease. Dogs with AIHA. Dogs exhibiting clinical signs.

How to treat?

Treatable but not necessarily curable (meaning can reduce eliminate symptoms, but may still test positive and should always be considered a permanent carrier). B. canis is easier to treat than B. gibsoni. *note* there are other treatment options available in different areas of the country and currently under development in the US

Doxycycline (DO NOT GIVE WITH DAIRY PRODUCTS)and Clindamycin are affordable,
generally well tolerated treatment option for dogs with low to moderate titers and no or little symptoms.

In the US the "big gun" treatment is Imidocarb Dipropionate A single dose is usually effective for Babesia canis but 2 injections (given 2 weeks apart) are needed for Babesia gibsoni and depending on the infection of Babesia canis may be given. Side effects can include, but are not limited to: muscle tremors, drooling, elevated heart rate, shivering, and fever, facial swelling, tearing of the eyes, and restlessness. The injection is expensive, painful, should be given deep into the muscle, given with supportive care and only by doctors experienced with it. Pre-treatment with an injection of atropine helps palliate these side effects. In dogs that are
asymptomatic, this treatment is not worth the risks and side effects.

Prevention:

• Tick control. Carefully remove ticks asap.
• If blood transfusion is needed confirm that blood is from a babesia negative dog. (as well as other tick bourne diseases).
• Avoid dog to dog bites, fights.
• Avoid situations that involve contaminated needles/surgicalinstruments

Other things to consider:

• First evident within rbcs on blood smears in approximately 1 to 3 weeks post initial infection.
• Although clinical disease may resolve, infections often become chronic. Even after appropriate therapy, infection can persist forthe life of the dog.
• Babesia canis and B. gibsoni are not known to infect people.
• People can become infected with other Babesia species, dogs are not involved in the transmission.
• A babesia vaccine exists, although it is not currently available in the US.
  

Educate yourself and talk to your veterinarian!

PBRC 2008 Happy Endings Calendar - Deadline is near!

Hello Friends!

Have you ever envisioned your rescued Pit bull as a pin-up? Does
your pup have good looks, charm, a great story, or really cute
costumes? If yes, then you have 3 more weeks to make your doggy's
dreams come true!

We are currently accepting submissions for PBRC's 2008 Happy Endings
Calendar. Those of you who have purchased the calendar know that it
is full of accurate breed information, heart-warming dog stories, and
12 months of GREAT color pictures of rescued Pit bulls.

We are accepting pictures from now through July 1, 2007.

All the information you need regarding type of photo, submission,
cost, etc. can be found here:
http://www.pbrc.net/shop/photosubmit.html