Animal's Background Checked Before Adoption
June 12,
2003
The word “pitbull” evokes a wide range of emotions from sadness to fear to images of misplaced machismo. In addition to the typical family dog like a Lab or Golden Retriever, the LA/SPCA on Japonica Street deals with hundreds of “pits” each month. The breed has become one of my favorites. When people see my own pitbull dog, Lola, a flood of questions follows such as “is she for sale; is she dangerous; and do you trust her?”
Pits are an American classic and have been seen on everything from Buster Brown Shoes to The Little Rascals television show where Petey was the kids beloved canine to ads for Levi Jeans.
The early form of the pitbull was bred in England to bait bulls in the 19th century. Although there was a theoretical purpose to the baiting – the bulldog’s piercing attacks would tenderize the bull’s meat prior to slaughter – it was also considered a sport. Fortunately, the sport was outlawed by the Parliament in 1835, which contributed to the rise in the replacement spectacle of dog fighting.
Dogs were bred for their ability to fight but also for their loyalty to humans. The breed would not last long if it were not to be trusted around people. Pits are generally loving, sweet dogs. They wag their tails enthusiastically and love to cuddle when given the opportunity.
Last week, the Louisiana SPCA impounded four pit bulls of which two were discovered dead on chains and two were still living. The dogs were clearly fought as they had numerous scars on their faces and legs. I received many questions about the ultimate destination of the living dogs. Would they be adopted out or euthanized? Several people offered to foster the dogs until new owners could be found.
These are difficult questions for shelter employees. We know that pits are wonderful pets, but we also know that dogs that are trained to fight, regardless of their love of people, cannot be trusted around other animals. If they accidentally escape and meet the neighbor’s dog, the greeting could turn deadly. Infants and toddlers can mimic animal movements, which may trigger an unintended reaction. Consequently, a decision is made to euthanize. Many tears are shed by those assigned the task.
Some shelters euthanize every pitbull that enters their facility, regardless of the dog’s background. But, dogs that are never trained to fight and are raised in loving homes can be great pets. Unfortunately, homeowner insurance companies are beginning to prohibit the breed along with Dobermans, Rottweilers, and German Shepards. Companies will not insure homes that house these breeds of dog. Entire breeds are blacklisted because of negative labeling and a few irresponsible owners. Eventually, a new breed of dog will be created, which is why the LA/SPCA does not favor breed banning, a new trend fanning the country.
- Laura Maloney
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