« Misunderstood Monster? »

Blogging is the world’s newest forum; blogs are where we can rant, praise, inform, question and answer. Here we discuss pitbulls, coffee, Keanu Reeves, and the 2011 earthquake.

I am greeted with jumps, tail wags, wiggles and licks. I practically have to force my way inside the house against the tirade of enthusiasm and excitement at my mere presence. Such is the greeting of a happy, well adjusted American Pitbull Terrier.

I was not always such a fan of these misunderstood canines; in fact, once upon a time, I too felt some trepidation when I heard the word “pitbull” mentioned in conversation.

My attitude changed completely, however, once I actually met a couple of these controversial creatures. I was quite surprised to learn how the negative reputation spread in the media had influenced the way that I reacted to the mention of an animal I had never met in person. I now spend quite a bit of time with two pitbulls that belong to my boyfriend, and consider them part of my family.

Out of the many different dog breeds I’ve been fortunate enough to meet during my career as a veterinary receptionist, the pitbull is one that I most cherish. Unfortunately, they are also one of the canine breeds most often misunderstood, abused, neglected and killed by humans. This is not only because of their muscular physicality, tough looking exterior and their history of being bred to fight other animals and each other, but is also due to the fact that these dogs are extremely loyal pack animals that would do anything to please their owners: something that is easily taken advantage of by someone with negative intentions.

I often find myself wondering how negative ideas of this breed have been emphasized to such an extent that many people view them as monsters that should be destroyed. It brings me deep sadness to think that these wonderful creatures are so often mistreated by the people they try so hard to please and to love. It is a tragic fact that there will always be people that treat animals in such a way that twists them into dangerous creatures. By focusing on one breed or the other, the blame is unfairly shifted onto the victims.

As is the case with many pets, pitbulls are definitely not suited for everyone. They are often high energy, demanding companions that require structured leadership and training, as well as interactive ways to stimulate their minds, to drain their physical energy and keep them balanced and healthy. They also happen to be extremely loving, loyal and amusing, and I feel extremely lucky to have them in my life.