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August 24 through the 28 marks National Pit Bull Week. Organizers say the purpose is to help these dogs overcome stereotypes and breed discrimination.
“Pit bull is technically not a breed. Pit bull is a general term used for staffies, bull terriers, boston terrier, any kind of bully background breed,” sad Tara Mercado.
And these dogs get a bad rap.
“It really is the worst thing in the world because you are condemning a whole group of dogs without knowing them,” said Mercado.
At Adopt-A-Dog’s recent Clear the Shelters adoption event, Comet here couldn’t go home with a loving owner because of the pit bull reputation.
“Her tenant board in her condo, the one breed they have listed against is pit bulls. They don’t want to hear that he’s mixed, they don’t want to hear about his temperament, they don’t want to hear our professional opinion,” said Mercado.
But, Adoption Coordinator and pit bull owner Tara Mercado says these dogs just need the right owner.
“They get along really well with other dogs. The do great with kids. They are extremely energetic so they like to play, they like to run around. They are extremely loyal and smart,” said Mercado.
And Mercado says these smarts can go a long way.
“If you want to teach them special talents- search and rescue, service dogs- pits are really good candidates for those positions,” said Mercado.
Adopt-A-Dog has about 10 pits looking for forever homes right now.
“They really are amazing. They just need someone to give them the opportunity and they will prove everything wrong,” said Mercado.
You can get more information at www.adopt-a-dog.org.
