David Von Drehle’s recent article in Time Magazine (2009) discusses the July, 2009 rescue of 500 Pit Bulls from alleged dog fighters. Dog fighting is illegal in the United States but dedicated, underground breeders and fighters keep the sport alive. Pit Bull Terriers are banned in several states because of the affiliation with dog fighting. The cruelty inflicted on the dogs involved in the business is unmentionable to any animal lover.
Pit Bull and Bad News
Pit Bull Terriers continue to headline news stories. It is common to glimpse an article describing the vicious attack by a Pit Bull. The late night newscast may include an upsetting account of a police officer shooting an out of control Pit Bull. The breed terrifies many people. Where not banned, the Pit Bull owner often fails qualification for Home Owner’s insurance due to the perceived risk associated with the American Pit Bull.
History of Dog Fighting
A Dictionary of English Folklore summarizes blood sports in an article of the same name (Simpson & Roud, 2000). Dog fighting began as a well received blood sport in England. Royalty, church, state, and the general public enjoyed dog fights in the 18th Century. Dogs were also used in bull and bear baiting. A celebratory vibe surrounded such events. In 1835, the English banned blood sports due to the cruelty involved. Due to the small amount of space required for dog fighting, the sport carried on regardless of laws.
The Facts on Pit Bulls
Jacqueline O’Neil’s book, The American Pit Bull Terrier (1995), provides unbiased, factual information relative to the feared breed. The Pit Bull Breed is not genetically altered toward viciousness. The breed is known as intelligent, affectionate, loyal, and strong. Originally bred for fighting, ranching, and protection, the Pit Bull was revered and desirable.
The American Pit Bull Terrier was America’s dog during World War I. Teddy Roosevelt, Helen Keller, Thomas Edison, and Fred Astaire are just a few well known former Pit Bull owners. Pete, the famous Pit Bull from the Little Rascals, also performed on stage. He is remembered for his intelligence and affection.
Bad Breed of Men, Not Dogs
The Pit Bull Terrier represented loyalty and honor in 1940s America. The dog appeared on poster campaigns and magazine covers. A true United States Patriot was the Pit Bull Terrier. Now many states require immediate sterilization of any Pit Bull. Unfortunately those already breaking the law do not abide by this rule, either. Those who should not own any animal engage in breeding fighters.
The Pit Bull’s obvious strength eventually appealed to the wrong crowd. Mobsters and gangsters adopted Pit Bulls as extensions of themselves. The powerful animal made the bad guy look and feel powerful as well. The bad guy made the stoic Pit Bull look mean and undesirable; an extension of himself.
Pit Bull and Good News
The press rarely shares good stories about the American Pit Bull but such accounts exist. For Pits Sake, a not-for-profit organization, empowers the Pit Bull breed outside of bad press. The dogs participate in search and rescue missions, visit nursing homes, and charm sick children. A Pit Bull is a wonderful therapist according to many people.
The United States Humane Society and various animal rescue groups believe in the breed. After July’s bust, the saved Pit Bulls were sent to various foster homes for rehabilitation. The attitude facing the American Pit Bull is changing from reactive fear toward the breed to proactive missions to save the dogs from cruelty.
Reference
O’Neil, J. (1995). The American Pit Bull Terrier. New York: Howell Book House.
Simpson, J. & Roud, S. (2000, December). Blood Sports. A Dictionary of English Folklore. Retrieved December 2, 2009, from Oxford Reference Online database.
Von Drehle, David. (2009, December 7). Abused No More. Time Magazine, 174(22), 45.
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