FACE 2 FACE with a Pit Bull ! ! ! ~
Your THOUGHTS please...
Well, I'd like to share a story about a pit bull (or 2) with everyone this day. I have had two encounters with pit bulls. I may have mentioned the first story here on Gather before, not sure -- but anyways, the first encounter happened one day after I was walking back from a relaxing by the water escape. Suddenly, I hear this ferocious bark behind me. Of course, without thinking, I turn around to see what the commotion was about. To my dismay, I LARGE pit bull was coming off the ground at me. [I was in the middle of some street -- who knows what the name of that street was, it was kinda scared out of me so to speak]...
With my foolish self, knowing I was looking at the likes of a pit bull, I start talking to the dog in a mini-mouse voice, "Hey little baby!" ~ "You're so cute!" -- [Now just IMAGINE that in your mind].
So the pit bull (like some sort of divine intervention was happening), floats back down to the ground -- as if in reverse motion. Then the pit bull cocks its head to the side and looks at me like, "Are you crazy!? Don't you know that I'm a pit bull?!"
Then the pit bull just slowly turns around and starts walking away (as if to say), 'well, I guess she's not going to be any fun to play with'
Now mind you, I am scared out of my wits, my legs are shaking, and I'm not sure if I can continue to stand up -- but I turn and start walking in the direction I was headed in the first place before the pit bull came along, and I'm talking to myself in my mind saying, "Just keep walking, show no fear, just keep walking, don't turn around to look back at the dog..."
By the time I get to where I'm going, I just collapse inside the door, thanking God I made it through that encounter.
That incident happened about two years ago. Now, about two days ago, I was at a family member's house, and his friend came over with his dog. The doorbell rings, and in walks the friend with the dog. As I look up (I'm sitting on the couch with another friend of mine), this pit bull comes charging in the door, blazes past everyone, and jumps on my legs with his front paws, and looks me in the eye. I'm so shocked that I'm looking in the face of a pit bull, that I find myself studying it in the eyes. Now once again, I go into mini-mouse voice for some reason (beats me why)...
I say to the dog, "Hi baby!" Then, I HUG the dog. And the dog hugs me back, and kisses me on my face, and keeps looking at me in the eye. Before I could even think, I ask the owner, "Is this a pit bull?" -- as if he's going to say, 'No, it is a poodle', He says, "Yes, it is a girl, her name is Sweetcakes and she really likes you!" I said, "Hmmmm. I SEE."
Then, the pit bull gets up on the couch next to me, and pushes me over, like, 'I want to sit here next to you.'
So, silly me, I say, "What are you doing?" to the dog as if she is going to answer me or something. I tell her, "You have to get down." Then she looks at me like 'No.' And, she doesn't move, she just continues to sit there and get comfortable until her owner tells her to get down.
To make a long story short, they locked the dog up in a room, and she opens the door and comes right back out and comes straight to me.
All I could hear was, "She opened the damn door!"
And I look and there she is on my lap and in my face once again. She was a very heavy dog, and not small at all. I'm sure she weighed more than me. So in my mini-mouse voice, I tell her to stop it, and sit down. If you could have seen how she looked at me, I'm not sure what you would have thought. She looked at me like she was studying me to see if I was understanding what she wanted. Then she proceeded to sit on my feet and lay there because she obviously wanted me to know that she wasn't going anywhere, so I could forget it.
Needless to say, the owner left, the dog stayed for hours upon hours, we watched movies -- and me, the dog, and my friend fell asleep during the 2nd movie.
So when the owner comes back, he says, "Where is my dog?" Me and my friend say, "Right here." He says, "Where?" as he looks around.
I tell him, "Right here asleep on my feet."
The dog looks up at him, like, "Oh - you're back." Her name was Sweetcakes ~ or something to that effect, I can't remember. All I know is that she had a really cutsie, sweetsie name.
You know, I really liked Sweetcakes. And for some reason, I am quite sure that if she were my dog, she'd attack anybody that I didn't like. My friend that was there seemed a little afraid of her, and kept asking me to call her over to me so she wouldn't be near him.
I have my opinions about pit bulls, and much more to say, but for now...
My questions to everyone for the purpose of this DISCUSSION are:
1) Do you have a pit bull?
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
4) Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
I'll give my answers as the responses roll in...
[Posted in the NEW GATHER DISCUSSION GROUP ~ Putting The Pieces Together ~ pieces2gether.gather.com]
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Comments: 282
This post was originally done for the NEW Gather Group: Putting The Pieces Together ~ A GATHER DISCUSSION GROUP about all kinds of topics and subject matters for discussion by ALL Gather Members.
[This post will be shared with other Gather Groups as well]
I kinda didn't know what to think or say. It was like my encounter with sweetcakes was not at all scarey to me, but she made me feel like I was not being wise.
By the way, Sweetcakes was sick, and when l looked into her eyes, I knew immediately that she was sick. Then her owner told me that she had pnemonia {however you spell it -- I'm kinda tired}...
Then Sweetcakes was sneezing and coughing too. The owner had given her medicine and said that she was much better since she had been to the vet.
I kept telling Sweetcakes to just lay down because she knew she didn't feel good -- and when I think about it, I was talking to her like she was a person. And on top of that Tory, she kept acting like a person. It was like she hugged me like she had arms instead of legs. It was really strange in a way. But I'm not sure why.
Thanks for telling me about the two pit bulls you know. I believe that those owners who are mean to their dogs and make them fight make it bad for the well behaved pit bulls. Although, if I were to base my knowledge of pit bulls on what I hear, for the most part, it has not been good. And I know two people who have been bitten by pit bulls. So you can imagine what runs through my mind when I think of a pit bull.
...oh my goodness...
It is about judgment calls when in the presence of a pit bull -- and PRAYER.
I think, too, it's going to depend on where you are-- if you're in an area with a lot of dogfighting, then a good amount of the pitbulls are going to have been trained to be aggressive. And I totally agree-- the people who train their dogs like that are doing the entire breed a huge disservice.
Thanks for coming into this discussion Tory.
I do also think that in the case of issues with children, the children also should have been more supervised. I can't really blame a dog for snapping at a child (or anyone) if that person is pulling its tail or hurting it in some way...
The pits I know are allowed to roam only in situations where it's safe for everyone involved. Both have very attentive, responsible owners.
And I agree with you about the children (or anyone) that is pulling on a dog's tail or hurting it in some way.
There are also people who carry certain auras that will actually cause a dog to attack them. Animals are very attuned to the spiritual realm. What we may not see, they SEE.
And I definitely agree with your intro statement in your comment. Although I have known of dogs that allow burglars to come into homes and they don't defend the homefront.
Children should always be supervised -- especially little children. I've seen toddlers out in the street without supervision, and that is the scariest sight.
I'm glad you've added more to this discussion. There are a lot of very interesting comments on this thread. I really don't think dogs should be allowed to roam around. Too many people, children, and also other dogs are attacked that way. Owner around or not. But I don't want to be paranoid about it, just cautious and wise.
Certainly you love dogs, I can tell Tory. I do too. I love all animals really -- well -- pretty much ALL...smiles...
"I think that any dog can be dangerous depending on their personality and training."
Any dog or any animal with teeth has the possibility of being dangerous if you ask me.
I was nipped a couple of weeks ago by my friend's little midget dog. At first I didn't even realize that it had bitten me, because I had on thick jeans, and it bit my ankle. But then it did it again on the other ankle a little harder. I said, "OUCH! I think your dog just bit me!" Then the dog just sorta looked at me like -- 'ha ha'. She said "You're kidding." I said, "Nope, I'm not." Then she said, "Well I think he must like you then, because he never bites anybody. And he didn't growl." I said, "Well then if that is what he does when he likes somebody, I'd hate to see what he does if he doesn't like somebody, because that hurt."
The dog you had that stayed mean must have had a bad upbringing in the womb Kevin--lol -- BORN MEAN? ~ What's the world coming to?
The dog probably had a few bad run-ins before you got him, or was he born while in your ownership? Could be in the blood or genes you know.
Thanks for adding to this discussion!
I've seen people badly bitten by various breeds, sometimes by dogs which normally get along well with people including kids. Fortunately Rudy would not bite you even if you stepped on his tail or his foot.
I'm still on the fence about whether pit bulls are sweet. From my two encounters, the first pit bull didn't seem that sweet as he was coming at me like a 49er! But then, at least there was some sort of angelic intervention that made him float back down to the ground and look at me like I was an alien and walk away.
I'm glad you responded to this, and I hope you come back and tell us whether Rudy is a pit bull or not?
In my opinion, aggressive breeds such as pit bulls, rottweilers, boxers, doberman pincers should only be owned by experienced and responsible dog handlers. They should not be allowed to run loose except in designated dog parks or in enclosed areas, or in the field.
I agree with you about pit bulls, rottweilers, boxers, and dobermans -- I've been around all of those breds. The Dobermans (My Aunt & Uncle owned several, and had to shoot all of them, because they went for my uncle's throat. They could never be out when people were around. They seriously ferocious. The boxer was a sweetie, and the rottweiler had 'I'm going to eat you eyes'. My friend would have to lock up her rottweiler when I went to her house because I was taking no chances (judging by the look in his eye -- I didn't plan to bank on him being sweet).
However, I've had limited contact with vicious dogs of any bred.
Thank you for your input ~ I so agree with you about owners being experienced and responsible dog handlers.
Have a great Sunday!
Thank you for bringing the link over. I see a lot of Gatherites have already viewed him. I hope that those in this Group SEE him too.
I'm glad you popped back to bring the link and share his story.
So many mauling occur in connection with pit bulls. That is what my friend told me who works at Animal Control -- she witnesses, hears about, and deals with pit bull attacks, bitings, maulings, maimings, on a daily basis. And she told me exactly what you said Phill --
"I don't trust pit bulls under ANY circumstances." ~ Phill Senters
I feel so bad for the little boy you mentioned Phill. How is he doing now? I'll keep him in prayer.
That had to be traumatic to witness that Phill -- are you okay?
Now Sweetcakes stared into my eyes for the longest time, and kept coming back to do it. It was like telepathy or something. Can't really explain it well, you would have had to have seen it. It felt as if she was mind-reading me, and expecting me to mind-read her. And the deeper I looked into her eyes the more I discovered about her -- like her sickness. Although I do that with people too.
And she was basically blocking my friend who was sitting on the sofa with me from getting up. He was a little afraid I think, because he kept asking me to call her over to me. Finally, he got the courage to get up, and she didn't move from the spot -- even when he sat back down. Then, because he was so disturbed, I called her to come over to me, then sat on my feet, watched the movie, and fell asleep.
It was something about her though that I can't stop thinking about. And I don't really get into dogs that tough unless they are my own.
Her tail was like a whip. I kept telling her to stop whipping me with her tail as she was walking next to me through the house. And, believe it or not, she did stop. She was really smart and intuitive I believe.
The Therapy Dogs that you have described sound so interesting. I also have a cat that planted itself and waits for me to come around -- at another house. It won't leave the people say, even though they try to get it to come with them. It appears every time I show up. A beautiful cat too -- a dwarf cat.
I loved my toy poodle, Pooh Bear -- he was so funny. He would wrap his food up. Sit on the headrest while I drove, and was the best trained dog I've ever had. Sadly, I had to give him away to my friend when I moved to another state for my job, and he was never the same they say.
And, I know brojer -- the Spirit was seriously protecting me from that first encounter -- like you've mentioned, because THAT DOG was HUGE and very scary. I never shook so hard in my life from an encounter with a dog. I'll never forget it.
[I'm trying to pay more attention to my spelling, because as I have been looking back at my comments -- I'm like what the heck is wrong with me!? Typing like a wild woman, and not proofreading ~ Geez! ~ LOTS of LOVE!]
Did you have one of those Therapy Dogs -- perform therapy with you brojer? Can't wait to hear...
My ex was baby sitting the therapy standard poodle that I mentioned. It was a very well behaved dog. The State of MN tests them every year to recertify them as therapy dogs. One test involves putting them in a room of rambunctious kids and the kids pull their ears and generally commit mayhem on them, if they growl or do anything at all aggressive they cannot be certified. I did not have a therapy dog treat me. I needed another person to understand what I was going through, and I believe I am a better person for it, as would most people if they would try it. Sometimes a VERY good friend with a sympathetic ear can take the place of a therapist but usually training would help them be better at it. Many people claim that their pets are psychic, and some religous scholars believe that Adam could talk to the animals telepathically as he named them in the garden of eden...Nice thoughts don't you think?
I do find what is going on in the State of MN interesting. Very.
And, sure, I do believe people can telepathically talk to animals.
I think that each of us has the ability to tap into anything that we so desire brojer.
...and yes, I think you always have nice thoughts -- hadn't really thought about Adam though ~ smiles...
On this ~ "I guess though that the sense of danger is a little removed from psychic abilities but maybe not too far though." ~ brojer
I don't think danger is removed in the least from psychic abilities. A keen sense of danger is one of the warnings that the spiritual gift of discernment allows for.
I think most of us are aware of dangerous events before they happen -- we get a sense of danger within us -- or a gut feeling -- or a queeziness within our bellies.
Yes, birds too -- about the weather patterns ~ storms and natural disasters. You notice that the birds scream when there is going to be a storm.
And yes, animals definitely have extra sensory perception...lol
I find it interesting, what you said about a therapy dog laying its head in a depressed person's lap. I'm in the midst of difficult time and just acknowledged that I'm am in the grips of grieving.
This morning my daughter asked me when my female German Short-haired Pointer had started her habit of pressing her head onto my thigh and looking up at me. I said it was recent, since the move. Wow, she must sense what I am going through. Her action is quite calming to my soul.
Thank you for that insight.
brojer ~ Where is that book you were writing? You are so good at relaying your life incidents.
{I'm going to copy this comment before I press "Submit", because comments just seem to keep getting sucked up by the Gather UFO cloud}
HUGS YALL!
Get that Family Tree chart out ~ lol!
My wife loves genealogy and will do a search for anyone that asks. She is on the computer so much that I think of myself as a genealogy widower:)
You seem to have spurts of activity here on gather and then are gone for a while. Is that related to typing burnout or depression? If so maybe a pet for you! If not then a cyber hug will have to do =:)
I didn't know that you were a genealogy widower. I've missed a lot while I was out...
And, no -- just BUSY with an overflow that never stops ~ and the cyber hug is fine with me ~ lol
Sister Rene
No we don't have a pitbull
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
Not for our family.
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
I don't think I ever have other then seeing them with their owners
4) Do you know anyone who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
Yes to all of the above.
That is not a pleasing thought to know that you can say that you know people personally that have not had good encounters with pit bulls -- but then, I too know two people that were bitten by bit bulls on their legs. One while in his own yard, and the neighbor's pit bull jumped over the fence and bit him; and the other was riding his bike, and a pit bull came out of nowhere, and bit him.
Thank you for answering the questions ~ will be talking with you more in here!
I can't wrap my mind around people who like to train dogs to fight. But then I don't like boxing, or wrestling, or any physical sport that draws blood.
Glad you popped back to this!
Here is a nice thought for you. The LDS Church doctrine states that if you really loved your pet it will be in the spirit world waiting for you..Isn't that a happy thought?
Pam ~ You have a point there. And, have you noticed that argumentative people always look for an argument -- even when there is one to be had, they will create an argument? Most people like that are sickly -- evilness and very bad thoughts will eat a person up -- that is the main reason (I believe) for cancer and the likes.
It is so sad when small children are hurt by dogs, because it scares them for life sometimes.
I understand what you mean about pit bulls scaring you out of your wits. My first encounter was knee shaking!
you must have a very strong and kind aura. : )
I'm so glad to hear that you know a couple of pit bullls that are very kind and loyal. I got the sense that Sweetcakes would be that way with her owner. But loyal in the sense that no body had better mess with her owner. She had a very protective feel about her. She was giving off the feeling of 'you sit still, and don't go anywhere'. Which was basically the same feeling I was sending to her -- I wanted her to sit still because I knew she didn't feel good. The difference is -- she laid on my feet, and I didn't lay on hers ~ I'm laughing!
HUGS to you David ~ I'm so glad you're in here with us!
I'm also glad to hear that you have never had a problem with your two pit bulls, and that your neighbors love them too.
I believe you when you say, "When they like you, they really like you." ~ Sandy Moore
The Owner of Sweetcakes told me, "WoW, she REALLY likes you!" He was a little surprised at how she dashed over to me and jumped on my lap with her front paws and kept kissing all over me. I was too, by the way ~ lol!
I can see how you could change your mind about pit bulls Sandy. They can be very lovable. But, I honestly would not want to come up against one either -- their jaws don't play when they take a hold of you!
What is more, what you just shared just confirms my thoughts that if a pit bull got away from its owner that there would be nothing that could stop it from ripping someone, another animal, or something apart...to the point of death -- as you've just shared with us.
My friend in Animal Control told me the same thing, but in stronger tone, because she sees so many pit bulls brought in.
I've heard of many a baby being killed by pit bulls from my friend, and elderly people being seriously injured by them. Just saw a story in the Newspaper yesterday about this very issue.
Thanks for sharing your story with us in this discussion. Did the pit bull who killed the Yorkie get picked up and put to sleep?
When I looked into the eyes of Sweetcakes I wondered at her. Still can't get over it.
I'm so glad you're in here and added that to this discussion. This is getting better and better. You can learn a lot on Gather!
The other side of the coin is that I was attacked by a pit bull a year or so ago. He belonged to my neighbors and the owner didn’t treat him very well.
I think pit bulls are pretty much like any other breed. Many are sweet lovable pets, there are some that are shy, and there are some that are aggressive.
But, when I can back into the room, she had gotten back in my seat and was sitting there like the Queen of Sheba. I said to her, "I told you not to do that you sneak. Get yourself down from my space." It took her a second or two, and me saying it again before she got down. But she did, and sat on my feet after I sat down.
It was something about her that I really liked. And I really don't take to other people's pets like that...especially a pit bull.
But like my friend David mentioned, it must be something about my aura lately, because animals have been gravitating to me, and little children that normally don't take to strangers.
But, actually, I know that I exude genuine love toward people and anything I really like -- I can "feel" it myself ~ smiles -- not to brag or anything, I know it comes from a lot of "feeling" others for many, many, many years. And from going through experience after experience and story after story of the painful events in other people's lives. You tend to find a place of compassion in you heart, your mind, your body, your spirit, your SOUL ~ for many things and people and situations and animals that you otherwise would not have.
And that my friend is God in action.
...I'm going to the next comment box to talk about the attack you just shared...
"The other side of the coin is that I was attacked by a pit bull a year or so ago. He belonged to my neighbors and the owner didn’t treat him very well." ~ Len Maxwell
How bad was that attack? Are you scarred from it?
Are you telling us that there is an overflow of pit bulls in New Mexico?
A woman was killed by 3 pit bulls?
I don't know about the beef jerky -- I was bitten by a dog when I was younger feeding it a piece of meat. He didn't mean to, but I had it in my hand and he went to bite it to eat it, and got a piece of my finger with the bite. I'll never forget that either.
So you haven't had any problems with pit bulls thus far, and you are in an area where it sounds as if you are surrounded by them.
I hear you when you say, "I dislike aggressive breeds of dogs."
I'm awaiting your responses ~ I'm glad you're here!
I can understand your fright. I had a neighbor's dog with me, and a man with a pit bull came along walking his dog on a leash, and the neighbor's dog that was with me went running after it barking. I was frantic trying to call it back, and telling it "I can't save you from that pit bull, so you'd better get back here!"
Fortunately the neighbor's dog came back to me...WHEW!
Thanks for telling us about this experience you had -- Do you have a photo of the sculpture?
The few pitties I've known were all wonderful, sweet dogs.
Dogs do go on attack, but I doubt that pitties attack more then other dogs. They get bad press and unfortunately they are being bred to be fighting dogs, what a shame.
As for the stories where the dog gets away from their owner and goes on attack - many dogs do, but that is the fault of the owner. If you cannot learn to control your dog, then get a cat.
My son has one and she is the gentlest creature on earth, but I have not owned one.
I imagine you do have a strong aura and a scent dogs like.
Oh and I forgot, but I had a sudden run in with a pit that came into our yard. Turns out he got out of a neighbor's yard. I gave him some water and cat food - he was friendly (even before I gave him food)
But Jimbo our kitty didn't like him and went on attack almost got him in the eye, scratched the poor thing good.
The actual pit bull that I was Face 2 Face with the 1st time was predominately white with touches of carmel brown fur. The 2nd one looked more like the photo, but with less wrinkles, not quite as thick, and pretty brown eyes.
The pit bull in the photo would definitely frighten me a bit. But the 1st one that came leaping out the air at me was MUCH BIGGER!
You're so to the point -- "PS that pic looks more like a hell hound then a sweet pit." ~ Rose Hill I am laughing!
I have a strong aura and a scent dogs like or they think I'm amusing ~ don't know which ~ aahah!
Oh lord about your cat ~ your cat is not one to come up against is he?
Had that dog that attacked your granddaughter ever attacked anyone before that?
I know just what you mean about that dangerous dog Dotti. I'm glad that he is no longer a threat to anyone else, or anybody else's children.
That is a very eye~opening story that you've shared with us. It really makes me think about being aware of my surroundings when it comes to dogs on the prowl ~ or loose ~ or breaking loose.
...I'm shaking my head...
What you said has also been said in this discussion by many members in here...
"It's the people that make the Pitt Bbull nasty not the breeding but the training of them." ~ Elaine S.
How many pit bulls do your family members own in total?
BIG HUGS to you!
I'm like you when it comes to really have time for a pet. That is why I don't have one at this time ~ like you...
Thanks for adding into this discussion!
My son has the absolute sweetest pit bull ever! He was such a sweetheart...and you know what? Their neighbor in their new house poisoned him to death without even getting to know my son or his dog. He just seen pitbull. The police didn't do anything about it.
Another recent case is like this too except the people's neighbor came in to their yard and shot their dog. Again, police are saying they can't do anything about it. I find this strange in both cases.
Strange is putting it mildly Marsha ~ Not only the two incidents, but also the responses to the two incidents. Obviously the Owners of the Pit Bulls did not press any charges?
no but my sister had one yrs ago.. she was a gentle gaint
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
not crazy about them yet I feel it is not thier faults yet the fault of the owners,, I seen too many accident of poor children and pitbulls. yet I have seen it also done with a husky and a 4 yr nephew of mine
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
not a bad way
4) Do you know anyone who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
as I said seen to many children hurt by them
At least your sister's pit bull was a gentle giant. I like hearing about that.
I'm surprised about the husky incident. Did it attack your nephew without provocation?
Steph, when you answered this...
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
not a bad way
Do you mean no incident? Or slight incident?
I'm glad to SEE you in hear, and thank you for coming into this discussion.
Nope. Allergies for one and for two I would not allow a dog that's got a track record of attacks. (Yes, yes, I know any breed can attack. That's not what I'm talking about. Some are more likely than others to and we all know that as fact. Which breed we list to be more likely than others would likely vary greatly person to person.)
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
I stay away from them and don't let the kids near them because you just never know. Why take chances? For the record, I use this method with ALL dogs we do not know.
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
No, other then seeing them with their owners or outside of the house. I believe this one sometimes ran around UNLEASHED which was both illegal and of concern as there were many kids in the neighborhood.
4) Do you know anyone who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
No.
And you are right, pit bulls do have a track record of attacks on people, and other dogs.
I prefer smaller dogs as pets, but I certainly like big dogs as well -- like German Shepherds.
When I see a pitbull out on the street with its owner, I still have pause Annmarie...smiles
Thanks for jumping into this discussion!
I know what you mean about having a gentle bred versus a dangerous bred with a track record of attacks.
Although, many here in this discussion have had positive experiences with pit bulls.
Thanks for responding to this discussion, I'm glad you joined in!
There have been a lot of comments in this discussion about how a dog is raised that makes the difference -- especially with regard to a pit bull or dangerous bred of dog.
Dotti ~ Did they smell the "fear" in you Sister? ~ I'm thinking on that...
And as some of our other friends in here said, it is about the pit bull owner as well.
I hope Dotti comes back to answer the question about "fear"...
2) How do you feel about pit bulls? About the same as I feel about any other dog. I'm not going to run screaming if I see one in the street, unless it gives me a reason to.
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull? I grew up with one. And my next door neighbor has had 4 or 5 in the past several years. And I see them in petsmart occasionally.
4) Do you know anyone who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull? No, I don't. I know people who have been bitten by German Shepherds, and Chihuahuas. I've personally been bitten by a cockapoo, 2 different Chihuahuas and a westie. I know a girl who was bitten by a springer spaniel. And a lab mix attacked and tried to kill one of our dogs. But never, in my 30 years of living have I or anyone I know personally been attacked/mauled/bitten by a pit bull. Slobbered on, however, is another story entirely.
And you answer to #4 really made me laugh.
You have an overall good report with respect to pit bulls with respect to this discussion ~ which is a plus considering the stories that have been shared on the other side of the wall on this topic.
HUGS to you Winona ~ We're all glad you're here!
"It's a shame that pit bulls get a bad rap all the time." ~ mary v.
Although it appears that some of it is for good reason according to what we are hearing in this discussion.
It is so much easier to love one another ~ don't yall think?
BIG HUGS ~ You'll SEE me on your thread...
I'm getting quiet...
Sometimes it may not be the owner's fault. Sometimes...
just a thought
The problem is people who have no idea how to care for a dog or just want a big scary dog as a status symbol are the ones that commonly get these types of dogs and then things spiral out of control.
One of my dogs is half lab half Chow (which is also considered a "dangerous" breed) and I am pretty sure there is some Pit in there as well (he is very lean and strong and has the block shaped head...) and he is the sweetest dog ever. He loves our cats, hell...sometimes i think he thinks he is a cat! I have people tell me all the time that when they see him outside that he is intimidating or scary but if they knew him they would know the only concern with him would be being licked to death.
all in all pit bulls get their bad rep from the kind of people who get and subsequently abuse and or neglect them. and because they are big powerful dogs they are capable of doing more damage than a smaller dog. Any dog can go bad, but only a pitbull makes a good headline in the nightly news...
"The issue isn't the dog, it is the person!"
and
"The problem is people who have no idea how to care for a dog or just want a big scary dog as a status symbol are the ones that commonly get these types of dogs and then things spiral out of control. "
You are so right about that statement Ryan!
Do you have a photo of your dog that you can share with us?
This is also very true...
"all in all pit bulls get their bad rep from the kind of people who get and subsequently abuse and or neglect them. and because they are big powerful dogs they are capable of doing more damage than a smaller dog." ~ Ryan Reid
They are POWERFUL dogs, that is for sure. The weight of Sweetcakes and her jaws & teeth let me know that she would be something to deal with if she attacked.
...going to the next comment box to continue Ryan...
Oh, mary just popped in ~ lol ~ Hi mary and everyone...
"i still approach all new dogs with caution if at all. You never know their past..." ~ Ryan Reid
GOOD ADVICE!
No and probably never will.
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
Dogs are bred for certain characteristics. Pit bulls do not have the values that I want in a dog. I do believe that much of the pit bull bad reputation stems from the owners who train them.
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
I had a dog that was my best friend for many years and the next door neighbor had a untrained pit bull. She attack him and ruptured his spline. It broke my heart to put him down and I have not owned a pet since then.
4) Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
I have known a few people that were hurt by pit bulls. Mostly the people were trying to defend their own dogs or children.
All of the above being said, I still think there is a lot to be said about how they are raised and trained.
I'm sorry to hear about what happened to your dog in connection with a pit bull. That is terrible.
I had a little chihuahua that was attacked by a neighbor's German Shepherd. He was shaken like a rag doll and had to go to the vet because he punctured him. It was terrible, because the owner what crying and trying to beat his German Shepherd off, but he couldn't. He threw him after he shook him like a washing machine gone wild. With that being said, I realize that any dog can attack a person or another dog or animal and that the owner may not be able to stop him. The German Shephard was on a leash too!
And your answer to #4 is frightening Nan.
And your last line has be reiterated again and again in this discussion.
Thank you for adding so much to this topic.
And, you are so right about this..."you just never know with a stray dog what they are going to do." ~ Diane H.
And you also never know what a dog will do that has an owner right there with them either. Like the little dog I mentioned in this discussion that bit me in the ankles. His owner was right there.
My Aunt and Uncle had a cat that would slap your face, or anybody else's face -- thank the lord the cat was de-clawed!
And my sister had a cat that would jump on people's heads! That cat was crazy! She would try to trip me when I was coming up or down the stairs at my sister's place -- a real joke~ster that cat. My sister finally had to give that cat away -- she never knew what she would do.
Your question....
"...how do you not let the animal know that you are afraid, impossible." ~ Diane H.
The only thing I can say to that is that if you are surprised, and don't have time to be afraid -- it would be the only way not to show fear. You ever see people where it takes them a minute to click into what is going on? Those are the people who are able to not show fear.
I don't know what everybody else has to say to the show no fear question, but it would be could to hear how other people would show no fear in the face of attack by a pit bull.
Thank God I have not been attacked by a pit bull. I don't even want to conceive of it.
Oh, ans dogs universally are afraid of water being hurled at them in most forms. We had obnoxious dog neighbors in Seattle, we could never be in the backyard without them thrashing and barking and growling at the fence between us and them. A dog trainer told us to keep the hose near the fence and spray them. It could have been pouring rain, which these labs could care less about and a squirt gun or hose sprayer had them running.
A neighbor's herding dog would try to herd my truck every time I left or returned home - water balloons cured her. Even still she did manage to 'catch' other cars. So sad...
Never make eye contact? -- if the dog is threatening? -- because I sure made plenty of eye contact with the 2nd pit bull -- it was friendly though ~ so I am assuming you mean if the dog is growling or getting ready to attack you -- right or no?
We keep squirt bottles handy for when our pack gets riled at the Fedex or UPS drivers. When the G-Kid comes over he carries one around until the dogs all settle down - to keep them from jostling him around, pawing, etc.
And thanks for explaining further about the direct eye contact with an aggressive dog. And not turning your back -- for the purposes of possibly having to defend yourself? In the case of not turning your back, you could accidentally make direct eye contact ~ don't you think?
I turned my back on the 1st pit bull encounter only after he had turned his and started walking away. I was scarred shaky though ~ lol...
True story: I once dreamed that I was being bitten. It was so real. I actually felt the dog's breath on my arm and I woke up screaming so loud,I woke my husband up screaming. LOL but I thought I was a goner. I really did and I couldn't shake it even hours after realizing it was only a dream. I'm so glad that sweetcakes liked you and she could like me too but I would have been scared out of my mind and you'd probably have to slap me to calm me down.lol. I donate to the animal shelter often but that's as close as I want to be to any dog.
What you said made me laugh ~ "Yes I have heard of them attacking before and the only ones I like are the ones I don't ever have to encounter." ~ Otelia S.
That is so understandable. Your fear of dogs stems from the dream you've shared....
"True story: I once dreamed that I was being bitten. It was so real. I actually felt the dog's breath on my arm and I woke up screaming so loud,I woke my husband up screaming. LOL but I thought I was a goner. I really did and I couldn't shake it even hours after realizing it was only a dream." ~ Otelia S.
What did the dog look like in the dream Otelia? Depending on your history of dreams -- do your dreams come true? Makes a difference in what I see in your dream. The "fear" factor -- Your fright from the dream is an indication of a subconscious fear of dogs. But it could also mean that you will encounter such a dog, and a warning to beware of it. Because you could not shake the dream even hours afterward ~ leads me to think that it was a warning dream. That is why I asked you what the dog looked like in the dream.
PRAY about that dream if you have not done so already. Ask God for divine intervention if that dog is to cross your path, and any other harmful dog.
You made me laugh with this remark....
"I'm so glad that sweetcakes liked you and she could like me too but I would have been scared out of my mind and you'd probably have to slap me to calm me down.lol." ~ Otelia S.
Not slap you to calm you down! ~ I'm rolling on the floor with my jacks again ~ hahaha!
Three years ago, driving north to Duluth on Interstate 35 I saw cars and 18-wheelers slowing down on the opposing side of traffic. Something was in the middle of the two lanes of traffic--a dog! I found the nearest exit and crossed over to the other side. By that time the dog was trotting alongside the freeway, and I was so relieved it had avoided being hit by cars traveling over 70 miles per hour on that stretch.
Slowing down and driving on the shoulder, I opened up the passenger door and began whistling for the dog. He responded and jumped into my car. To my surprise I was now face to face with a Pit Bull in the confines of my own car. I admit, my heart lurched. I do not believe that there are bad breeds of dogs, just bad dog owners. However I had no idea what this freeway dog's history was.
Turns out he was lost, foot-sore, hungry and sweet. I shared my packed lunch with him and called 9-1-1. Not because he was a Pit Bull, but because he was a danger to himself and drivers. I offered to drive him to the area animal shelter, only there was none. A highway patrol officer with a heart met me at an exit and promised me he'd find the dog's home or would offer him one. I thought that was pretty cool.
I do not own any Pit Bulls. Dogs are bred for certain traits and how the dog is raised determines how those traits are exploited or managed. I think it's a big responsibility to take on a dog with traits like a Pit Bull and no matter how sweet the disposition or loving the owner, the dog's traits need to be understood and managed. It is a big responsibility to own any dog.
To me, the worst dog out there is the Chihuahua--they are antagonistic, viscous and their owners tend to not train them because they are "just little dogs." My dog (on leash) was attacked by a Chihuahua (off leash), and when my neighbor stepped in to help it bit right through his hand. The next week the Chihuahua died on my front lawn and my dog was accused of killing it just because my dog was big.
Turns out, according to the vet report, it was hit by a car. However, in the drama that followed the incident, I learned how prejudiced most people are against large breeds (my dogs are German Short-haired Pointers and my male is near 80 pounds). The idea that little breeds are exonerated from their bad behavior because they are small is no excuse, nor is it right to blame the nearest big dog when a little one turns up dead. Blame the owners who let it run around the neighborhood unsupervised and untrained.
So, while I may not own a Pit Bull, I do empathize Pit Bull owners whose dogs are widely misunderstood.
"Slowing down and driving on the shoulder, I opened up the passenger door and began whistling for the dog. He responded and jumped into my car. To my surprise I was now face to face with a Pit Bull in the confines of my own car. I admit, my heart lurched. I do not believe that there are bad breeds of dogs, just bad dog owners. However I had no idea what this freeway dog's history was." ~ Charli Mills
At this point of what you've shared I'm waiting in anticipation to read the rest!...
I'm still reading, but I was also surprised at this...
"A highway patrol officer with a heart met me at an exit and promised me he'd find the dog's home or would offer him one. I thought that was pretty cool." ~ Charli Mills
Yes, I'm surprised, because I would think not many people would so readily offer to take on Pit Bulls that have been found. WOW, now that surprises me.
Still reading the rest of what you've shared...
"I do not own any Pit Bulls. Dogs are bred for certain traits and how the dog is raised determines how those traits are exploited or managed. I think it's a big responsibility to take on a dog with traits like a Pit Bull and no matter how sweet the disposition or loving the owner, the dog's traits need to be understood and managed. It is a big responsibility to own any dog." ~ Charli Mills
That is WISDOM Charli ~ Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the responsibility of owning dogs -- especially considering the bred.
I kinda thought about what you said here, because I owned a Chihuahua, be he was all bark and no bite. He never bit anyone, and was very friendly. He did however get attacked by a German Shepherd which I mentioned in this discussion.
"To me, the worst dog out there is the Chihuahua--they are antagonistic, viscous and their owners tend to not train them because they are "just little dogs." My dog (on leash) was attacked by a Chihuahua (off leash), and when my neighbor stepped in to help it bit right through his hand. The next week the Chihuahua died on my front lawn and my dog was accused of killing it just because my dog was big." ~ Charli Mills
I'm in agreement with you on this Charli...
"The idea that little breeds are exonerated from their bad behavior because they are small is no excuse, nor is it right to blame the nearest big dog when a little one turns up dead. Blame the owners who let it run around the neighborhood unsupervised and untrained." ~ Charli Mills
Because, as I've mentioned in this discussion, just recently a little dog snipped me on one ankle, then bit me on the other. There was nothing cute about it either, even though the dog was some little cute bred of dog -- can't remember what. His owners picked it up and held it while I was there, and it was looking at me all angelically, so they thought he liked me. I think that dogs that bite aren't what I would call friendly. But who knows -- they know their dog better than I do. They said their little doll dog never bit anyone before so they tended to think he was playing with me. He never barked, he just walked around my feet, and then first snipped one ankle -- and because I wasn't paying him any attention because he was so little and low to the ground, he walked right up and around my feet without me noticing and bit the other ankle!
But you are right about owners (and other people) excusing the bad behavior of little dogs because they are little (and sometimes cute). But they can be a little handfull with teeth ~ lol.
My toy poodle did try to bite someone though to my surprise. He leaped up from the ground to his arm to try to bite the man twice. He had never done that before. [But then I couldn't stand the man, and I'm sure my dog sensed that].
HUGS Charli ~ Brave Hwy Pit Bull Patroller ~ lol
Often I wonder about that pit bull...and the officer with a heart for dogs.
If you ever found out about that HWY Pit Bull, do tell us...
Gotta check out your icon up close -- don't remember if I've seen this one or not ~ smiles.
There have been many people speaking about how their lives have turned topsy-turvy . . . that topic would be good for in here seriously Charli...
Maybe you can start a discussion on that subject ~ Life Changes ... or something to that effect. I know there are many people here in this Group that can add to that subject matter!
2) How do you feel about pit bulls? I LOVE them. They are the only breed I will ever have.
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull? Every day :0}
4) Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull? No, never. The only thing is I hear the stories in the media. These sensationalistic and exaggerated stories do a real disservice to pit bulls everywhere.
It is estimated that 2.5 MILLION pit bulls live in the U.S. If they are such terrible dogs, why aren't there more attacks than there are?
Also, even I can't properly identify all pit bulls. How do you expect someone in the media to do so? Many times, the dogs reportedly "pit bulls" are not.
If you really want to learn more about what pit bulls are REALLY like, read the books by Diane Jessup, or the book about the Michael Vick dogs. Get the truth!
Shannon ~ Bravo to you on this...
1) Do you have a pit bull?
"I actually three rescued pit bulls. They are incredible dogs: loyal, loving, friendly, energetic, etc." ~ Shannon K. Wendt
So you've had no problems with your three Pit Bulls Shannon?
I would assume not, because you've shared this...
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
"I LOVE them. They are the only breed I will ever have." ~ Shannon K. Wendt
...going to the next comment box to continue...
4) Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
"No, never. The only thing is I hear the stories in the media. These sensationalistic and exaggerated stories do a real disservice to pit bulls everywhere." ~ Shannon K. Wendt
It is estimated that 2.5 MILLION pit bulls live in the U.S. If they are such terrible dogs, why aren't there more attacks than there are?
~ Shannn K. Wendt
Also, even I can't properly identify all pit bulls. How do you expect someone in the media to do so? Many times, the dogs reportedly "pit bulls" are not. ~ Shannon K. Wendt
If you really want to learn more about what pit bulls are REALLY like, read the books by Diane Jessup, or the book about the Michael Vick dogs. Get the truth! ~ Shannon K. Wendt
Thanks for all you've shared Shannon. I'll definitely check out the books you've suggested, and look into the stories on Pit Bulls more in depth.
I just talked with a Pit Bull owner yesterday, who was thrown out of where he lived because he owned a Pit Bull and the neighbors did not want him in their neighborhood. His Pit Bull had had no incidents, and he said his Pit Bull was very friendly. However, the neighbors were making a judgment call on the bred -- incident or no incident. Which made me wonder how everyone in this discussion feels about having Pit Bulls in your neighborhood (friendly or not)...? ~ Chime in with your thoughts please... ~ Rene
And I have some pit bulls in my neighborhood. They are all wonderful! Friendly, well trained and just lovable! The way all pit bulls can be if properly raised!
Thank you so much for raising this topic. It is SO close to my heart!
You've shared this...
"the only problem with my dogs is that they get too excited when someone comes over. I haven't yet been able to cure their excited behavior. It can sometimes overwhelm.... " ~ Shannon K. Wendt
Have you tried water? That was brought up in this discussion. Also, I don't know if you mentioned it or not, but how long have you had your pit bulls? And, how old are they?
Does the barking frighten people who come to visit you or your neighbors? Is it hard to stop them from barking? Do they appear aggressive when they are barking and excited? Or do they even bark at all?
I've had Rhieon and Mia since 2004. Mia is about 10, and Rhieon about 9. It's hard to say since they were rescued and you are never sure of their exact age.
Yes, sometimes people get uncomfortable. I usually ask them to meet the dogs through the fence so they can see how friendly they are. I think I've really changed the minds of neighbors too. They see me walking the dogs every day, and many have met each personally.
Mia doesn't bark much, but the other two will. It's not hard to train them to not bark though. I just let them know when barking is not okay.
I used a lot of Cesar Milan's training methods with my dogs, and it's really made them great pets!
Yes, squirting with water. Someone said it works! I'll have to go back through this thread to tell you who suggested that. And, I've seen it work to stop bark and an aggressive approach by a dog.
...be back!...
I also learned not to comfort a scared dog, as much as we might want to.
Never tried the water thing with a dog. With a cat, yes.
Talk to you later!
Don't comfort a scared dog? Why not?
oh, and the WATER really works on barking aggressive dogs, I've seen it in action.
See you in a few...going to see what R.F. said...
I have always read that you shouldn't comfort a scared dog because it perpetuates the fearful behavior. It's SO hard not to pet my dog when she's scared!
...tell you more in a few...
The owner -- who did not get their dog(s) just kept calling him, but he was not moving -- OH! I thought to myself, 'what is is with me and the pit bulls'?
And this pit bull definitely did look like the picture Shannon.
...more to follow...
I think maybe a man's voice might be more effective. I don't know, but I do know that I'd never be able to hold a pit bull back from jumping on someone if they did not listen to the word "Stop!"
And, they do seem to be loveable dogs, but I've never witnessed the reverse of that like some of our friends talked about in this discussion. Now that would probably terrify me. But I really love dogs, and the pits I've encountered did not cause any pain with attacks or bites -- thank God! But the one I described in this discussion scared me to shaking and trembling.
LOL!
I can't picture it working on pit bulls for some reason...at least not the ones I encountered -- all up on your lap, on your shoulders, in your face -- I think they'd probably knock a water bottle out of my hand, or LAUGH at me big time ~ and roll around on the floor thinking it must be some kind of a JOKE! water bottle ~ hahahahha!
I'm just sayin' -- I could be wrong, but somehow, I don't want to test it out on pit bulls!
You've obviously taught you dogs how to play, live life, and have FUN ~ WATER & ALL! ~ LOTS of LOVE!
...a Golden Retriever is most likely to bite? YIKES! I didn't know that.
...reading your 2nd comment box now...
Not anymore but I have owned many pit bulls and cats they got along very well.
2. How do you feel about pit bulls?
My thoughts on this are that there are no bad dogs just bad owners.
3. Have you had an encounter with a pit bull?
All good encounters.
4. Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
Unfortunately yes but I also know of others that have had bad encounters with other breeds of dogs, including my son that was bitten by a Chow.
I was bitten by a St. Bernard when I was a kid. Do I want them all banned? Hell no!
I think Cesar Milan (The dog whisper) said it best when he said;
It seems that every 10 or so years a dog breed is labeled as too dangerous in the
70’s the Doberman in the
80’s the German Sheppard in the
90’s the Rottweiler
And now pit bulls
When will we blame the humans?
Or something like that I’m not sure if it is an exact quote.
As long as most people treat thier four legged companions as animals instead of with the respect and education they deserve as family members there will always be some issue with some breed of animal.
I'm bringing down this part of what you've shared Sabas...
4. Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
Unfortunately yes but I also know of others that have had bad encounters with other breeds of dogs, including my son that was bitten by a Chow. ~ Sabas M.
I'm sorry to hear that you do know of others that have had bad encounters with other breeds of dogs. Sabas, I have heard many stories of Chows being biters, probably more than any other dog.
It seems overall, everyone so far in this discussion agrees that TRAINING is important, and the OWNERS of the Pit Bulls need to have a thorough understanding of how to control their dogs around others. I certainly think that it is vital that this happens. Not everyone can hold up under the weight of a pit bull if they are not restrained, and do not listen to their owner telling them to sit, or stop.
Thank you both for the wealth of information that you have added into this discussion.
The BAN on Pit Bulls is still up in the air in a lot of states. And, I do get your point Sabas about the other breeds of dogs where BANS were brought up -- Dobermans, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and now Pit Bulls.
I love GERMAN SHEPHERDS! -- but Rottweilers and Dobermans I do stay away from -- but have not seen any of them around lately.
Thanks,
"It seems to me that theses breeds were treated as a fad and as other breeds were labeled as dangerous people moved on as if they were some kind of fashion statement. For theses people it’s something like owning an exotic animal that they have no clue how to handle losing sight that this is a dog “man best friend” that needs to be loved and educated as any other breed of canine." ~ Sabas M.
Loving your input!
The pit bull was featured as Buster Brown’s dog Tighe. Theodore Roosevelt brought his pit bull to the White House. Helen Keller owned a pit bull as did Fred Astaire and General George Patton. Charlie Chaplin is captured in a photo out walking a pit bull. A pit bull was even given the honor of representing the USA in WWl posters.
Pit Bulls were once a sign of pride and dignity of the United States, which is why they were used in these propaganda campaigns. Their never-quit attitude that was represented by the breed, was a statement the United States sent around the world. These dogs were once loved and cherished; the only thing that has changed is people.
The popularity of the breed has attracted breeders who know little and care even less about what a true pit bull (APBT) really is. These people are crossing the breed APBT with whatever is available, breeding for human aggression, and producing some unstable dogs. They sell theses dogs cheap and the pity is that they call these dogs “pit bulls”.
If the pit bull is such a vicious untrustworthy dog then where were all the stories about attacks before? Why did we have this breed represent us in such an important war? Why was it allowed to sit along side the president of the USA? The answer is back then there wasn’t the problem of uneducated people breeding unstable dogs and calling them “pit bulls”
And you've presented us with some very good questions and insight regarding pit bulls Sabas...
"If the pit bull is such a vicious untrustworthy dog then where were all the stories about attacks before? Why did we have this breed represent us in such an important war? Why was it allowed to sit along side the president of the USA? The answer is back then there wasn’t the problem of uneducated people breeding unstable dogs and calling them “pit bulls” ~ Sabas
Thank you for coming back into this discussion to share more with us!
Sorry to keep on I just could not go without including Petey as an example of a true pit bull in this discussion.
Thanks
You've caused me to look a pit bulls with a different set of eyes ~
HUGS to you for that!
Your buddy,
Rene
(good as a friend...)
THANK YOU -- That is what I have been hearing a lot. I'm glad that many people have not been hurt by them, but there are many here in this discussion that know of people who have been.
I'm glad to hear from you Jerry, and I hope to hear more from you in this Group, and hopefully you'll start up a discussion we can all jump in on.
HUGS,
Rene
No, but a neighbor does. He has 5 boys. Their dog is friendly with everyone.
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
Any dog is naturally our best friend, unless an evil person trains them to be otherwise. Those people should be chained outside for a day or two and left to contemplate how they might make up for their wrong doing.
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
I live on an isolated country road and was walking to meet a neighbor half way, when a dog appeared. It leaned against my legs and wanted pets. It was the first time I'd ever seen a Pitt Bull's face up close - this one was memorably sweet.
4) Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
No, but I've heard of such on the news.
I'm glad to hear your answers to the questions. Your neighbor's pit bull is friendly to everyone -- that is GOOD!
And what you've said about evil people in relation to pit bulls is something that has been shared by others in this discussion...
"Any dog is naturally our best friend, unless an evil person trains them to be otherwise. Those people should be chained outside for a day or two and left to contemplate how they might make up for their wrong doing." ~ Barbary Chaapel
And the encounter you had reminds me of the 3 other encounters I had after the one I described in this discussion...
"I live on an isolated country road and was walking to meet a neighbor half way, when a dog appeared. It leaned against my legs and wanted pets. It was the first time I'd ever seen a Pitt Bull's face up close - this one was memorably sweet." ~ Barbary Chaapel
Once question for you Barbary ~ Would you own a pit bull?
Just stopping by to let you know that this post/photo is spotlighted in the
What Is Happening Today On Gather ~ Tuesday July 24, 2012
Sure hope you have time to check out the other spotlighted posts/photos as well.
Have a wonderful day!
THANKS AGAIN, and I'm on my way over now...
Connie is a doll, and Today On Gather is extra special because of her.
And, you are right Diane -- the owner should never let people just walk into their house when their dogs (especially pit bulls) are not put up, because you just never know what will happen.
Thanks for jumping into this discussion topic!
Pit Bulls terrify me - from the time I read about the woman who got the face transplant in France(?) due to her friendly, family, pit bull suddenly attacking her to encounters with my next door neighbor's dogs. Before we moved here, the guy who rented this house bred pit bulls - they were wall to wall in the house, esp. in the basement. He bred them to sell to those using them in dog fights. When he was finally evicted - the whole house was renovated - there was dog crap everywhere. Before he was gone, he sold about five of the pit bulls to our next door neighbor. I heard from other neighbors one got loose and nearly chewed off the arm of the woman on the corner; the same one terrorized a man last Thanksgiving - in the alley. They still have three of those dogs. If I go out back to take out the garbage or tend to my garden, and they are bringing one - or worse - all out to go to the bathroom - those dogs try to jump the fence - barring their teeth and barking, growling - at me. This morning, I was pulling some weeds from the garden, bent over, not even noticing that the neighbor had come out back with one of the dogs, and jumped when I heard that menacing bark and growl - esp. when I saw he had his paws on the fence - she was trying to physically pull him back - with her hands on his collar. Those dogs are just plain mean.
On the other hand, a few times a week I walk a former neighbor's dog - who was a rescue. She is part pit - I have a healthy respect for her - her owner told me she responds best to high pitched voices - which got me thinking about the "voice" you used with the pit bulls. Also, Xena doesn't like being looked in the eyes. I've been walking her for around a year now with no problems. When I let myself in, she comes up to me with a favorite toy, all excited that I am there to spend some time with her. Yet I never let myself forget that she is a dog, and anything can happen. When I was hired for the job, I was told she was a rescue - that Xena had previously been mistreated, and when found - it was after she was hit by a car. She ended up having surgery and lost part of her hip bone. She doesn't trust many people, and it takes time to get to know her. When I walk her, I put on a muzzle and leash - and even at that, if a child asks to pet the dog - or starts to come over, I tighten the leash and tell the kid(s) - please don't pet her - it makes the dog nervous - or something like that. I am always surprised by parents who just let their small kids run up to pet a dog without asking first! When my son was little (and now!) - he adored dogs and wanted to pet them all. I would ALWAYS ask the owner if the dog was okay with that before letting Paul touch the dog.
by the way - Xena's owner told me if she ever does get antsy to go away and let her calm down a bit. Her owner has two cats, too, and Xena gets along fine with the cats. But the owner has no children.
As for me, I would never own one. I have cats and prefer cats anyway. It's only because Xena is a mix that I gave walking her a chance.
"Where I live, in Baltimore, pit bulls recently have been banned. This has caused an uproar with pitbull lovers and animal rights groups and such. The reasoning behind the ban was all the recent incidents involving pit bulls mauling people." ~ jeanne clarke
And then you mentioned this...
"Pit Bulls terrify me - from the time I read about the woman who got the face transplant in France(?) due to her friendly, family, pit bull suddenly attacking her to encounters with my next door neighbor's dogs....I heard from other neighbors one got loose and nearly chewed off the arm of the woman on the corner; the same one terrorized a man last Thanksgiving - in the alley. They still have three of those dogs. If I go out back to take out the garbage or tend to my garden, and they are bringing one - or worse - all out to go to the bathroom - those dogs try to jump the fence - barring their teeth and barking, growling - at me." ~ jeanne clarke
How SCARY jeanne! And when you shared this part following, I wonder why (or if) anyone has called to report those dogs...
"This morning, I was pulling some weeds from the garden, bent over, not even noticing that the neighbor had come out back with one of the dogs, and jumped when I heard that menacing bark and growl - esp. when I saw he had his paws on the fence - she was trying to physically pull him back - with her hands on his collar. Those dogs are just plain mean." ~ jeanne clarke
I know that I could never hold a pit bull back if it tried to attack someone and it was my dog. It would be nearly impossible. They are very STRONG -- not to mention HEAVY, and I am not strong enough.
You story is really frightening, because it seems to me that you never know when they will be out and something may happen.
...I'm going to the next comment box to continue...
On what you said about the part-pit, "...her owner told me she responds best to high pitched voices - which got me thinking about the "voice" you used with the pit bulls." ~ jeanne clarke
I really believe that it a KEY factor with me and the pit encounters I have had (now that you've mentioned it). I used a mini-mouse voice, and I didn't do it on purpose, it just kinda came out that way. Even with the last encounter with the one that stood up on my shoulders, looked me in the eyes, then licked my face. When it stood up face to face, I did the same thing with the high-pitched voice, I said, "Hi baby!" . . . "You are so cute!" . . . Then, something within me realized that once again I was face-to-face with a pit bull that was quite HEAVY! Then a little fear hit me, but not enough fear to be shaky, I just kinda asked the owner to please get their dog. Then I thought about it...like what nerve -- I am in THEIR HOUSE telling them to please get their dog. I didn't even know them, my friend knew them.
...going to the next comment box...because I tend to have comments that disappear because they get too long...
"Also, Xena doesn't like being looked in the eyes."
On the two pits that I encountered that looked me dead in the eyes, I looked them both dead in the eyes. The first one (not the one that made me shaky, the next one) for a very long time -- almost as if we were studying each other intently. And the second one (which was the one that stood on my shoulders) -- I thought the eyes of both of them were so intriguing. Especially the first one. The first one was a female, and the last two were males.
But, I have heard that you shouldn't look pit bulls in the eyes -- but like the bumble bee that doesn't realize that it shouldn't be able to fly, I looked the pits in the eyeballs -- and trust me, I have been scolded for that by my friend who really does not trust pit bulls at all.
Thanks jeanne for what you shared, because you've given me another take on pit bulls!
She will obey simple commands such as 'stay" and "sit" - and I always make sure to give her a treat afterwards.
Yesterday, when walking her, we met a guy and his dog in the park - newcomers - and because Xena didn't growl - I knew she'd be okay. The owner asked if she was friendly, and I said, "Well, she didn't growl" - and he approached her slowly, holding out his hand for her to sniff. She decided he was fine and let him pet her and rub her belly. She watched his dog with curiosity but no animosity. I've come to know her cues after doing this for quite a while.
I feel for her owner - Heather - because she's had two previous dog walkers - one had to quit because she had extensive foot surgery; the other got a full time job. It's difficult for Xena to adjust to a new walker. She has her dad and boyfriend if someone can't make it, but hates to rely on them for every walk. She pays twenty dollars an hour, and even if I have Xena out less than an hour I get paid for the whole hour.
When I "interviewed" for the job - which was recommended by the man who last walked her - Xena came over to me and laid down by my feet - and that's when Heather realized Xena liked me and would most likely be fine with me. She prefers women over men - but does like certain men, like Charles, the guy who previously walked her. She also likes my son, Paul, who helps out at times. When Paul walks her, they can run - something my old body can't keep up with - and both love that. She gets so excited when she sees my son with me! And I figure if I can't make it, Paul can go for the day - it's nice to have backup. He likes the extra money, too.
But - when I encounter pit bulls in my neighborhood, or even when walking Xena - I am very very cautious. And believe it or not - animal control has been called on my neighbors in the past. Nothing.
Not only that - their back yard smells like dog crap - everywhere. They don't scoop it up till later and then just dump it in one of their outdoor trashcans. The men who pick up the trash get disgusted with that week after week and sometimes won't take it. The smell gets worse then -e sp. with the heat wave we've been having. This neighbor is known as a hoarder. Another neighbor told me if I ever move not to leave anything behind because she will take it. She's got her front porch filled with junk - including a mannequin - of all things! I once caught a glimpse in her kitchen when she opened her back door - wall to wall junk. And this lady is a public school teacher! Makes you wonder what kind of people are teaching our children.
"I also keep a ziplock bag of doggie treats in my pocket - bribery will get one anywhere!" ~ jeanne clarke
I think that is an excellent idea! People who have pets (dogs in particular) probably would have this thought moreso than those who do not. And mailmen, and workers who have to go to people's homes and often face dogs that bite.
I like the way you've trained Zena...
"She will obey simple commands such as 'stay" and "sit" - and I always make sure to give her a treat afterwards." ~ jeanne clarke
Giving the treats after the dog obeys commands is a very good way to train them. But I am wondering if a robber comes in with treats, will the dog let him rob the home?
...still reading what else you've shared...and will comment further...you may come back before then, so just jump right on in ~ this discussion is REALLY GOOD!
What a great point you made --
"People who abuse or mistreat their dogs are likely to train those dogs to attack people. Pit Bulls for the most part, like Rottweillers or German Shephards, are sweethearts unless their owners trained them to be otherwise. Also, like with people, each individual within any species has a personality and just like people some are good, bad or ugly." ~ M L M.
You are so right about the people who are abusive to dogs. Of course, they are the type of people who would bred pits to fight. Sickening.
And you are so right about dogs having personalities. That is the BIG TIME truth ~ lol. My toy poodle liked to ride on the headrest behind my head when I drove, and would fly into the back seat when I stopped too fast! I sure do miss him. He had the sharpest clothes.
Thanks for what you've shared! The info about pit bulls being originally bred to help farmers ... is something I had not known.
I always wanted a small bulldog. They are such sweethearts!
jeanne and M L M. ~ You two are so funny!
jeanne, when you said the following, I had to LAUGH ~
"Way back when, my dad's last wife got three poodles and they were some of the nastiest dogs I have ever met! When she left him, he gave them away to a friend of mine who was getting married. That friend dumped the poodles back in his yard after they ate the wedding pictures. And destroyed a lot of other stuff, too." ~ jeanne clarke
I wonder if they are still married? Hahahahahh! Kinda thinking that they may have been a sign (?)
My mother had my poodle after I had to move, and my poodle was a terror to her 2nd husband, and would act absolutely awful. I had to then give him to a friend, and she said that he missed me so much she didn't know what to do about it. I realized that, but I couldn't take him with me. There were no pets allowed. I have no idea of what happened to him, because my friend committed suicide -- it wasn't my poodle though that had anything to do with it.
And jeanne, when you said this...
"I always wanted a small bulldog. They are such sweethearts!" ~ jeanne clarke
I had to smile ~ because bulldogs are so cute to me too!
...I'm going to the next comment box for what M L M. shared with us ~ lol...
To Rene: Thank you for the compliment, I began a little research because of *Shannon when she posted about the subject, what I found astounded me. ~ M L M.
What else did you find out that you have not already shared that we may find interesting?
This was very important to know M L M....
"No one without the proper training should try to take in an older dog if they do not know its background, canines will take on the personality and rules set up by the human that raised them from puppyhood, so if that person was abusive, most likely the dog will be too, then it takes someone with the proper understanding to re educate the dog, sometimes it works, sometimes it does not." ~ M L M.
I take it that you have raised a lot of dogs!
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474981466860
hhttp://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474981460031ttp://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474981460045
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474981431767
VERY INTERESTING ~
Thanks for all you have contributed and shared with us on this discussion topic.
GREAT INFORMATION!
HUGS,
Rene
No, I do not. But I have been around many pit bulls. Some good, some not so good. I lived with my sister with my kids a couple of years ago for a bit who has a pitbull.
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
I generally like pit bulls. But like any other big dog that can over power me, I have a fear. I would not personally own one by myself because I don't think I could control one. However my boyfriend wants one and has had one before. We agreed when we move to a bigger place with a nice size yard. We will get one.
3) Have you had an encounter with a pit pull?
I have had many encounters with pit bulls. None scary. I have had scary situations with Husky type dogs, Wold Hybrid and others.
4) Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
My oldest boy watched a pit bull that was just adopted by some friends charge up stairs of their place and attack a 5 year old boy that was playing video games. Didn't even have a clue that dog was there. Come to find the pit bull was a prior fighting dog.
2) How do you feel about pit bulls?
I generally like pit bulls. But like any other big dog that can over power me, I have a fear. I would not personally own one by myself because I don't think I could control one. However my boyfriend wants one and has had one before. We agreed when we move to a bigger place with a nice size yard. We will get one. ~ Mzzz Sweets
I don't necessarily have a fear of pits per se, but I do agree with you about not being able to control them. They are way too strong and powerful to really control. German Shepherds are very loving to me. But Rotts -- NO WAY! Those dogs do frighten me. The look in their eyes is not the same as a pitt's look.
But then, I know that a person who has been attacked by either bred would not take to kindly to someone sticking up for them.
Thanks for sharing what you told us about your encounters with pits being more on the friendly side versus your encounters with Husky type dogs.
But this part of what you shared certainly made me pause...
4) Do you know any one who has been hurt by a pit bull; attacked by a pit bull; or bitten by a pit bull?
My oldest boy watched a pit bull that was just adopted by some friends charge up stairs of their place and attack a 5 year old boy that was playing video games. Didn't even have a clue that dog was there. Come to find the pit bull was a prior fighting dog. ~ Mzzz Sweets
Mzzz Sweets, was the 5 year old seriously injured?
I was once snapped at on my leg by a BIG husky mutt that was at least twice my size. I was about 13. His owner seemed surprised that he'd attacked me and after I'd left, she followed me home to apologize to my mother and try and make sure she didn't sue. My mother isn't the suing sort and knows accidents happen, so she and the owner pretty much just sat down for a nice talk while I took a bath, discovering three HUGE bruises on my leg, and a tiny pea sized cut above my knee.
A few weeks later the owner invited me to see Kona (the dog) again. It seems the neighborhood kids had been taunting him while he was tied up outside the house. Given the fact the owners only did this when they weren't at home, they had no idea what had been going on. We figured that when I came to see him that first time, all he saw was a child, and he hadn't been too fond of them given how they'd been treating him. But after the incident with me, Kona's owners stopped tying him up while they were gone and got him into a training program. After that, he was fine, and he and I became GOOD friends. Most lovable ball of fluff I've ever known! Hard to believe given the start we had lol
hmmmmm....
Thanks for sharing your story on this topic of pit bulls.
It's funny, tho...now I can't tell you how much I love that dog...and I miss him lol
It is really interesting how we can become so attached to a dog -- when at first we may have reservations about them.
In most cases, even true pit bulls don't flip on their owners and human families. But, they were bred, from the beginning, to be fighters... to be canine warriors; to attack relentlessly and kill an opponent. This wasn't just in training but in generation after generation of selective breeding to isolate those traits that turned out dogs that were programmed for this life from birth.
It's sad as hell. I have known friends... people I knew who took on a pit bull pup and raised them with young children, believing that the fighter... the gladiator could be set aside with love and compassion. And in many cases... at least, last I heard, it worked. But, not all.
Just last year, my next door neighbors had their pit attack a long time friend and nearly remove their face. They had to call the police and ask that their pet be put down on the spot. The cop shot the dog dead in its own yard.
It really is a shame because each dog, each unfortunate event, all cycle back to a time and a culture where this kind of thing was not only accepted, but rewarded. The outcomes is generation after generation of offspring that fail in a world where they just no longer fit.
I would never, ever, have a pit bull in a home with children. Like you, I have heard the tales.
My take on pit bulls is that all that can be found need to be spayed/neutered, and allowed to live out their lives in peace - in a large, outdoor/indoor no kill shelter if necessary. Until they naturally die out. A pipe dream, for sure.
We, on the other hand, began feeling more comfortable wit their big pit gone and got a Great Pyrenees. She's now just 6 months old and weighs in at about 55 pounds, lol. She's very gentle... very affectionate. Kind of like nature's little girl with a bark that rolls like thunder.
I have a few pics of her in my photo section here and even built her a website - http://izzythegreatpyr.blogspot.com/
...
What Mike had to say really caught my eye...
"We often think of all cats and dogs being as kind and gentle as those we know personally...In most cases, even true pit bulls don't flip on their owners and human families. But, they were bred, from the beginning, to be fighters... to be canine warriors; to attack relentlessly and kill an opponent." ~ Mike Franklin
I don't have any pets at all at this time, but I do believe that you can never be too sure what an animal will do -- even when you KNOW them. My Aunt's siamese cat used to slap people in the face, and my sister's cat used to jump on people's heads. And my cousin's dog bit my finger while getting his lunch meat slice out of my hand (granted, he was a little hungry), but supposed he had sharpened his teeth, and really took a chomp out of my finger ~ YIKES!
...my point being, all that you shared in your comment Mike, the first box is worth all of us taking note of, and I'm glad you added that in this discussion that is really still rolling along quite well!
Now, there were at least 7 pitt puppies there. They were very cute and were very adoptable. I think they would be great pets, IF someone was willing to work with them and train them.
"about 95% of the dogs were Pitts or Pitt mixes. I would say that most of them were fine, but there were a few of them that were scary." ~ Janet "Jax" B.
When you say a few of them were scary...what do you mean? Wounded scary? Or mean (growl at you) scary? Or scary as in your description when you said this...
"Those pitts are the dogs that should probably be put down. They have been bred to fight to the death and some of them are downright scary and mean. They are the ones that seem to give the rest a bad name." ~ Janet "Jax" B.
And those puppies where pit bulls Janet?
jeanne ~ Do you strongly believe what you said about shelters?
"I think shelters have a responsibility to adopt out pits to childless couples or singles - esp. older pits." ~ jeanne clarke
In the hour Angela and I were at the shelter, 2 litters of puppies came in and back out....one set of 7 were yellow labs, the set of 6 were golden retrievers....a rescue place took ALL the puppies. I asked about adopting one, but I was told to contact the rescue (which charges 3x the price of the shelter). The shelter contacted a rescue as soon as they heard they were getting these pure bred pups. 2 other mixed breed puppies were being dropped off as we left.
ALL the dogs under 6 mo. were pitts. We actually were there looking for a beagle or beagle mix. NONE. I couldn't believe they had absolutely NO beagles. Beagle mixes are supposedly a dime a dozen, but our shelter didn't have any.
Thanks for everything you've shared with us!
I understand what you mean when you say this...
"So..... if PUPPY can do that much damage, I wouldn't want one as a pet." ~ Renita P.
You are so appreciated for sharing what you had to say in response to this discussion!