Chulo served as the “Pit Bull” Ambassador of HSHC for 3 years. He will be coming out of retirement on March 26th to celebrate this special day with you!

March is Pit Bull Awareness Month at the Humane Society for Hamilton County, so I would like to take a few moments to share my thoughts, and the facts, on the most abused and misunderstood breed in the world.

In almost 6 years with the Humane Society, over 3,200 “Pit Bulls” and “Pit Bull” mixes have passed through our doors. I use quotes around the term “Pit Bull” because it is in actuality not a breed. “Pit Bull” has become a catchall term for any dog with the physical characteristics of a “bully breed” dog—big head, big chest, cropped ears, etc. In fact, many dogs labeled as “Pit Bulls” are not at all as there are over 20 other breeds that are often mistaken for the American Pit Bull Terrier. But, more on that when you attend our free seminar on March 26th!

This month is about educating the community to the history, characteristics, trials and tribulations of this breed. You’ll learn that American Pit Bull Terriers (APBT) have been a part of American culture for over 200 years and revered as one of the most loving and loyal breeds in existence. You’ll learn that “Pit Bulls” have consistently scored better on temperament tests conducted by the American Temperament Testing Society (www.atts.org) than Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Boxers, German Shepherds and many more breeds that might surprise you. And you’ll learn why “Pit Bulls” have become the most abused dogs in the world as criminals like Michael Vick have used their strength, resilience and unwavering loyalty against them.

Vicktory Dog Hector soaks up the sun with owner Roo Yori of the Animal Farm Foundation.

I encourage those who have doubts, questions or fears to explore our website for information regarding this breed and formulate your own opinions. And, please join us and our friends at Pet Pals TV and Casa del Toro on Saturday, March 26th for our annual Pit Bull Parade and FREE Myth-Busting Seminar…PLUS the chance to meet Hector and his owner Roo Yori. Hector is a Michael Vick Survivor Dog who has gone on to become a certified therapy dog traveling the country as an ambassador to his breed. Hector has survived the unthinkable—but he lives every day disproving the stereotypes associated with “Pit Bulls”.

Please RSVP to Mandy Maxwell at mmaxwell@hamiltonhumane.com or call 317-219-4630 as seating is limited.

I have seen hundreds of “Pit Bulls” enter our doors over the years that have been neglected, used and abused. Their stories, like Hector’s, have been shocking and heart breaking. But of any breed of dog I have ever encountered, they also have the greatest propensity to love and forgive. I am inspired every day by their resilience and loyalty. I hope you will take a few moments to review the information shared here about this breed, and for those of you who already know the power of “pittie” love, please spread the word and be an educated ambassador for the breed.

Sincerely,