October 27th is Pit Bull Awareness Day

National Pit Bull Awareness Day was established as a day to educate and foster positive communications and experiences in the communities in which we and our dogs live. It is an opportunity to be a positive role model for responsible dog ownership, as well as introduce the truth about the grouping of dogs commonly known as "pit bulls" right in your town.  Many people only know of pit bulls by what they hear on the news, and they have formed negative opinions based only on that knowledge.  Fortunately, personal experience with a breed ambassador can overcome the bias put in their head through the media. We can - and we are - making a difference one person at a time. 

The Importance of the National Pit Bull Awareness Campaign 

As breed advocates, we have an obligation to show the public what the media will not -- the truth. As responsible pit bull owners, we can no longer be willing to be judged, discriminated against, and criminalized by the image set by the visible minority of irresponsible, negligent, and careless owners. The media berates our dogs daily. Legislators have labeled pit bull owners as the "criminal element" who only own pit bulls to enhance their macho image. The time has come to set the record straight, and the National Pit Bull Awareness campaign is just the place to start.    

In order to change the negative stereotypes that surround the American Pit Bull Terrier, we must take the initiative to educate people in our communities on the real pit bull. The search and rescue pit bull...the therapy dog pit bull...the K9 police pit bull...and, of course, the family companion pit bull. It’s an opportunity to open dialogue and to show people first hand that there is no such thing as a "dangerous breed" of dog but, rather, that problem dogs are the result of problem dog owners.    

Many pit bull owners and advocates change minds and educate others about the breed routinely (and most don't even know they're doing it!). When you incorporate your dog in your daily activities - going for walks, going shopping, going to work - you have an excellent opportunity to allow those who might only know a "pit bull" through the media to experience the "real" pit bull. You're showing others what we already know...a pit bull is just a dog, and every dog is a product of his or her environment and upbringing. This is what the National Pit Bull Awareness Campaign is all about! 

Participating in National Pit Bull Awareness Day gives you the platform and shines a spotlight on our collective efforts to educate and change stereotypes. It’s also an opportunity to network with other responsible dog owners in your community. You can discuss issues of importance where you live, and work together to make changes to create a better environment for citizens and animals living there.