BREED SPOTLIGHT
October 26th is National Pitbull Awareness Day (NPBAD). This is a day dedicated to those who own a pit bull (or a purebred American Pit Bull Terrier) and to educate others about these lovable dogs.
National Pitbull Awareness Day is a day of appreciation and education designed to change perceptions and stereotypes about bully breed dogs, commonly referred to as “pit bulls,” and their responsible owners.
NPBAD was established to educate and foster positive communications and experiences in the communities where these dogs live. It is an initiative dedicated to restoring the image of the American Pit Bull Terrier.
The annual event was started in 2007 by Jodi Preis of Bless The Bullys, a pit bull rescue and education group based in Tennessee. The goal of this day is to promote the breed’s truth through positive media attention, education, and advocacy.
The truth can ultimately save lives by preventing pitties from ending up in shelters due to fear, bias, and breed-specific legislation (BSL).
According to Save-a-Bull Rescue, there are between 3 and 5 million pit bulls in the United States and they make up approximately a third of animals being taken into shelters each year. That number is considered a low estimate, as shelters in large cities report pit bulls making up 50 to 60 percent of shelter intakes.
Pitbull-type dogs are often the first to be euthanized in shelters due to overcrowding, lack of adopters, and restrictive breed bans. Nonetheless, they are among the most overbred dogs.
The pit bull is not a breed. Rather, it is a generic term used to refer to a group of dogs based on their physical appearance. This includes dogs who resemble a crossbreed between a bulldog and a terrier, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully.
During World War 1 and World War II, pit bulls were crowned “America’s Dog,” with their smiling faces proudly shown as mascots on military recruitment posters. Pit bulls were known for their loyalty, affection, and penchant for children, earning them the nickname “the nanny dog.”
Several pit bulls were well-known symbols in American society, prevalent in advertising and film: you can find numerous photographs of the regal pit bull sitting with young children.
Many decades ago, “bully breeds” were bred to protect livestock because of their strength. In the 1980s, still known for their strength and build, gangs began using pit bulls for protection. Pit bulls unwittingly became a status symbol for people who chose to use their physical attributes as a means of intimidation.
It’s time to put the unwarranted negative perceptions of these dogs behind them. On this National Pitbull Awareness Day, here are some ways you can get involved with helping pit bulls:
What You Can Do to Get Involved
So take some time this National Pitbull Awareness Day to give your pit bull some extra love! Or, maybe take some time to learn more about pit bulls and how you can help your local community.
Consider Investing in Dog Insurance
Looking for more ways to keep your pup happy and healthy? Consider investing in a dog insurance policy with MetLife Pet Insurance.1 Our dog insurance policies can provide the coverage and care your furry family member deserves. Get your free quote today.
Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances.
1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.