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Perhaps part of the reason we all have such
difficulty discussing the pit bull "problem" is the fact that
we find ourselves up against a "brick wall" when it comes to saving
all of the pit bulls that are out there. There are no hard statistics, but
it is clear that pit bulls or dogs construed to be pit bulls are bred in
backyards, basements, empty buildings throughout the country. They are filling
our streets, packing our shelters. Often we have no idea where they come
from - only that they keep on coming - victims of dog fighting, drug raids,
breed bans, landlord discrimination, media assassination, intentional mis-breeding,
irresponsible ownership. And, as we all know, homes which can offer a loving,
supportive environment to this high-energy breed are mighty hard to come
by and take a long time to locate while long term kenneling can be torture
for these people-loving dogs.
Because we came into the field of animal rescue committed to saving lives,
these facts are hard to face. There are simply not enough acceptable homes
for all of the thrown-away pit bulls and pit bull crosses. As animal welfare
personnel our mission is to alleviate suffering to protect from cruelty,
to shelter and offer safe haven to all companion animals without prejudice.
It is important that we honor that mission, placing true ambassadors of
the breed in acceptable homes whenever possible. But there are moments
when euthanasia is the only safe haven, the only way we can protect a
dog from cruelty. When we aren't able to offer a pit bull his life in
a new home we can, at least, offer him a small measure of compassion and
dignity as he approaches the unavoidable end.
This offering can take many forms. It can mean taking him for a long
walk, holding him in our arms, offering him a toy, an opportunity to play
in the sunshine. It can mean spending some time with him, talking to him,
looking into his eyes - whatever small contribution we can make, we must
make to honor his life and soften his death. This is the least we can
offer this loyal breed who has served us so well.
The dog inhabits a no-man's land between human and animal. Unlike the
cat, the pig, the sheep or the horse, he cannot, if given the opportunity,
take up where he left off with Nature. Whether he came from wolves or
gods, tit appears the faithful dog has always been with us functioning
as companion, guardian and helper. Few people recognize the dog for what
he is - a precious gift to our species who asks nothing more than to be
allowed to accompany us always, to help us, protect us, to share our joys
and sorrows. He is our species' soul-mate. *
We must never take him for granted. He has asked only to do our bidding
and live by our side. The pit bull is our responsibility and must always
be included in our circle of compassion.
* Diane Jessup; The Dog Who Spoke with Gods
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