Sunday, October 11, 2009

dog aggression? long read but worth it



Thank you Lindsat Biddle for a great article I COULDNT HAVE WRITTEN THIS ANY BETTER !! The things in bold I strongly aggree with ,


What should we do about dog aggression?
Filed under: PIT BULL BLOGGS — bahamutt99 @ 3:18 am by Lindsay Biddle

When we talk about the American Pit Bull Terrier, most dyed-in-the-wool fanatics will tell you (often with the gleam of pride in their eyes) that it is without a doubt a dog-aggressive breed. But when you ask the unknowing public about Pit Bulls, they often equate them more with consuming babies than with attacking other dogs, and will even use terms like “pack mentality” when referring to them. Of course, the remainder of APBT enthusiasts are scattered somewhere in between. Some take sensible precautions with their dogs while others go so far as to turn them loose at a dog park. Still others don’t even bother to think about the aggression at all until it explodes like a landmine in their face.

What about those of us who are responsible for the breeding, judging and overall continuation of the breed? What are we supposed to do about the dog aggression in our dogs? On one end, you have fanciers who wouldn’t dream of owning (let alone breeding) a dog who did not show enough fire. On the other end are those who are working to squelch that fire completely. Is there such a thing as right and wrong here? Is it right for a breeder to focus on producing dogs that are so hot they cannot breed without human intervention? Is it wrong for another breeder to produce dogs so cold that they might as well be Golden Retrievers? (And I am not saying that as a breed Goldens are 100% dog-friendly; they were the first example that sprang to mind.)

When researching about pit winners that got along with other dogs outside of the pit scenario, I came across a lot of “I heard,” and “I was told,” but there are enough tales circulating that we can reasonably believe that there were some pit CH and GRCH that could tolerate other dogs. Two that spring to mind were GRCH Santa’s Mongoose and GRCH Greenwood’s Jimmy Boots. Mongoose was said to roll on his back and allow puppies to nip at him, while Jimmy Boots was said to ignore other dogs unless they made the horrible mistake of attacking him first.

These were exceptional dogs, no doubt, but is there a reason why they shouldn’t be the ideal? We strive to preserve the heritage of the breed, but do we adhere so blindly to a limited purpose that we also limit the breed’s future?

Today’s dog is usually measured by his capacity as a family dog. It is our responsibility as proponents of the breed to maintain his functional ability, but I think we have to come to terms with the fact that most APBTs are in pet homes. And pet homes don’t necessarily want a dog that will kill their other dog, or their neighbor’s dog, or a visiting friend’s dog. I hear in my head the counter-argument – one which I’ve made myself – that this is not the right breed for every home and people should respect that. There is sound truth in that statement, but is it a good enough reason to discourage breeding dogs who lack the characteristic dog aggression?

Those that know me know I’m no fan of matching, but I can’t help but wonder if it is actually the criminalizing of matching which has led to an increase in dog aggression. Perhaps enthusiasts – robbed of the opportunity to prove their dogs in the pit – are simply selecting the dogs who behave in the most fight-ready manner.

Before I am driven out of the community with pitchforks, I feel I should share my viewpoint on the subject. My take is simply that dog aggression should not be a factor in a breeding program. Breed your best dogs and don’t worry about the rest. If that means the breed’s temperament becomes a bit more moderate over time, so be it. But it is foolishness to my mind to value a fight-crazy maniac more highly than his equally nice (but relatively laid-back) brother. Just as I feel it is foolishness to exclude a dog from a breeding program because it is too hot. I no more want to see the APBT watered down than I would want to see him become a Sheltie, but I think some breeders are over-emphasizing keeping him as hot as possible.

I can easily embrace the idea of wanting to preserve the breed as a complete animal, including a temperament that reflects his history. But are we as modern-day fanciers of the breed inadvertently favoring dogs who themselves would not have been favored 100 years ago? I have heard many historical stories of dog-friendly or dog-neutral pit winners, and not so many of dogs who were so hot that they would attack puppies and females in heat. (The source is lost in my muddy memory, but I have heard of dogmen who disliked dogs that would attack puppies, thinking they were curs. Things like that give the lie to “bait animal” stories, but I digress.) Perhaps it is just a blind spot with me. Or perhaps it means that old-time pit dog breeders didn’t place a high emphasis on a dog’s willingness to grab any other dog.

Time goes on no matter what we do, and the breed does change. We have a responsibility to preserve the American Pit Bull Terrier, but we also must at some point decide where our priorities lie. What is most important to the APBT’s future? Do we keep the fire burning at all costs; worship the grab-anything dog as the escutcheon of the breed? Do we throw out that old warrior business and start breeding the APBT as the ultimate family pet? I can only hope that the answer lies somewhere between the two extremes.

Comments (0)
September 18, 2008
A word about courtesy

Sunday, October 4, 2009

TAMPA'S ONLY ALL PIT BULL OBEDIENCE CLASS GRADUATION







YESTERDAY was the graduation of Mid Florida APBTA's
First ALL APBT obedience class.

Looking back to the first class all the owners and dogs were kinda loosey goosey in their training and ownership and we had a few very dog aggressive /high prey dogs in the class that were charging each other, barking , growling, horting and snorting , some had dominance issues and others just plain out had bad manners.

Duane the Trainer told us on the first class that beginners obedience is more about the owner than the dog and promised us by the end of the 8 week class that all would be able to stand within inches of each other with out inappropriate behavior. I am sure many of us were skeptical.

Through the 8 week course we learned that: we the owners were responsible for our dogs behavior and the more time you spent with your dog and demanding more from yourself as well as your dog it would show and WHAMO he was right..
We had a few unsure, non confident owners ( one being me ) who stepped up to the plate and demanded more from ourselves and the proof is in our dogs.

During the last class ..Graduation day .. all the dogs and their owners had to go through their final exams..sitting and staying for 3 minutes , doing a non assistant down and staying for 3 minutes, stay and recall and sit. During this time 3 dogs together were being tested at a time and it was amazing to see these dogs within feet of each other sit, stay , down and stay for over the allotted time but the amazing part was that it was so quiet you could hear a pin drop ..all the dogs were sitting and actually paying attention to their owners and not the other dogs or any of the other distractions in the park that day.....
Before the class was over , the owners were instructed to stand in a circle and TO MOVE IN ..step by step each owner and dog moved toward the middle of the circle..within 4 or 5 steps all the dogs were inches from each other and were almost face to face , all were sitting on command and not one dog broke the command,..not one dog snarled or growled ..this lasted 15 minutes or more...

I was amazed At all the quietness and then I realized
..
DUANE DELIVERED ON HIS PROMISE TO US AND WE INTURNED DELIVERED OUR PROMISE WE MADE TO OURSELVES AND OUR DOGS....

MOVING FORWARD TO THE INTERMEDIATE CLASS !!!!

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Tampa Pit Bull Training Class


Mid Florida APBTA has been offering to its members and the Public the only training class specifically focused on the AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER in the TAMPA BAY AREA.

The first class started AUgust 8th and is an 8 week class which ( August 8th - thru September 26th).The class meets every Saturday morning at 10:00AM. Veteran's Memorial Park, 3602 N. Hwy. 301, Tampa, FL 33619.

Trainer Duane Bryant has over 30 years experience in dog training/dog behavioral issues. We think you all will be impressed with Duane's program. Duane himself owns Rotties and Pitties.

DUE TO THE HIGH RESPONSE AND NEED FOR THIS CLASS THIS CLASS IS FULL FOR THIS SESSION

This class will be offered again in the Fall of 2009.
Add your name to the mailing list by emailing Lisa Hutches, President at midfloridapitbulls@earthlink.net or call (813) 335-0708 .

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

MFAPBTA + PBPP = ONE


OPTIMISM + INFORMATION = HOPE

Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement is proud to announce we have reunited our efforts to promote the American Pit Bull Terrier with Mid Florida American Pit Bull Terrier Association . It is exciting to know that the Bay area has such experienced, educated and dedicated organizations to serve our community. Together as one, we can make a difference!
Mid Florida American Pit Bull Terrier Association is a sanctioned club of the American Dog Breeders Association. Our foundation lies with the ADBA registered American Pit Bull Terrier. We are dog fanciers who understand responsible and educated breeding for the correct purpose, and responsible and educated ownership. Our mission is to preserve this incredible breed. But Mid Florida APBTA isn’t going to stop with just being dog fanciers. There is much work to be done surrounding this breed, such as the battle of breed specific legislation, animal cruelty, irresponsible ownership and negative and incorrect media reporting. We are grateful to join forces and establish a hardworking family-bond with Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement to achieve all of our goals.

Both of these organizations are made up of dedicated and committed individuals that will work tirelessly to promote responsible pit bull ownership, who will spread the truth by educating the owners and the public about this awesome breed, and the issues of misunderstandings that surround this breed. Together we will continue to work diligently to promote this incredible dog, serve our community’s needs with training and diversified activities for both the dog and its owner, all the while remaining true to our beginnings…..the American Pit Bull Terrier.

Mid Florida APBTA is the oldest established pit bull organization in the Tampa Bay area born into existence back in the 1980’s. We have survived the test of time because we stand as stoic as our dogs, and have chosen to stay true to the breed and dedicated to the dogs themselves. We always have been and always will remain….here for the dogs. We understand the challenges of owning this breed, will forever help owners overcome these challenges, and labor tirelessly to maintain the right to own the breed of our choice.

Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement was the brain-child of a dedicated and hardworking member of Mid Florida APBTA, CJ, who had the foresight to see the need in our community for the pet bull owner, has the heart for a pit bull in need, and has the drive and determination to develop this very unique and innovative program to promote this breed and improve its overall image. In fact, Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement’s efforts were so successful it has since been mimicked not only here in the Bay area, but in other parts of the country as well.

With the efforts of Mid Florida APBTA and Pit Bull Pounding the Pavement working together we have the community’s best interest and needs at heart. From the dog fancier owning the high performance athletic pit bull who wants to experience the conformation dog show, weight pull competition or learn how to work and condition a breed of dogs that needs to work, to the family lickey-loo pet-bull whose loyalty cannot be matched…you will find Mid Florida APBTA and Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement….. TOGETHER AS ONE MAKING A DIFFERENCE!
New and exciting activities and opportunities are being developed as this is being written….dog shows, walks, training and much, much more. Watch for the upcoming announcements on our various websites. Get yourself and your dogs ready….we’ll soon be rock’n the State of Florida once again!

www.midfloridapitbulls.org
www.pitbullspoundingthepavement.com
www.myspace.com/midfloridaapbta
www.myspace.com/pitbullspoundthepavement
www.meetup.com/Mid-Florida-American-Pit-Bull-Terrier-Association/
www.midfloridapitbulls.blogspot.com/
www.pitbullspoundingthepavement.blogspot.com/
www.twitter.com/MFAPBTA
www.flickr.com/groups/1058503@N20

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

pbpp status

It with a heavy heart that I must inform you that PBPP’s hiatus will be longer than expected and all events have been cancelled until further notice.

I would like to thank all the participants and walkers who helped PBPP accomplish its original goals. PBPP’s goal was to promote responsible Pit Bull Ownership & Positive Breed image, educate the owners as well as the public to all the issues that surround our breed including temperament and training issues as well as to bring awareness and advocacy for our beloved breed. With your help and eagerness we have accomplished our goals!!! I receive hundreds of inquires locally and countrywide from people and organizations who want to emulate us and follow in our foot steps. So please pat your self’s on your back and say JOB WELL DONE !!!!

PBPP activities has opened the door for the many other advocacy groups that have popped up since our inception. I am proud that they have used PBPP as their spring board in starting their own organizations.

Even though PBPP is stepping aside for a while this does not mean we will be permanently gone. Within the next coming months PBPP will be once again combining their efforts with one of Florida’s oldest and respected Pit Bull Organizations- Mid Florida American Pit Bull Terrier Association- in efforts to help promote responsible ownership, bite prevention, training and true pit bull breed educationtrue pit bull breed education. We will work hard to bring the Pet bull community and the Show community together for the same common goal and that is to promote our dogs in a positive and true manner that is befitting of this wonderfully loyal and courageous breed.

In the mean time I humbly ask that you continue to walk your dog on a daily basis, spend time getting to know your pit bull’s temperament, get to know all their likes, dislikes and any little quirks that make them the unique breed that they are. Please continue to provide supervised and controlled socialization as much as possible and if your dog prefers to be the only dog that gets your lone attention that that is fine too. Please remember never to set your dog up for failure .I highly encourage that you form your own little walking groups with other known pit bulls and their owners. Get out there and show what responsible ownership is all about and be a true Pit Bull advocate.

It is has been such an honor to meet all of you and your beautiful dogs and I hope to see you again.

Most sincerely and humbly yours
Crystal Jimenez
Founder PBPP

You can stay on touch by reaching me at my
at our blog spot ……http://pitbullspoundingthepavement.blogspot.com

Monday, May 25, 2009

PBPP is going on a Hiatus

Hello
I am writting this with a heavy heart.

Due to recent and unforseen changes in the organization I, the founder and executive director of PBPP , have made the heart wrenching decision to cancel PBPP's June event and go on "a hiatus of sorts" so that we can regroup and reorganize so that we can come back as a better community oriented based organization that is truly for the breed and their owners.

I have heard the numerous requests for the "want and need for low cost training and socialization" so this is where PBPP will most likely be headed with the emphasis on the Canine Good Citizen and Temperment Testing being our main goal. Training , understanding your breed ( breed education) and promoting a positive image is so important especially in the world we live in today and the prejudices that the Pit Bull and their owners face.

Right now "Putting the Best interest of the Breed first " must be our top priorty and to do so PBPP will need to take time off, regroup and come back stronger .

We appreciate your patience and would like to hear any comments, concerns and ideas.
IF you would like to be part of the new changes please let me know

thank you for your patience as we do our best to "Be there for the Breed"
Crystal
Founder and Executive Director

Saturday, May 23, 2009

SPATS HAPPEN!!!! By D Reynolds

1. Spats Happen! It's a fact of Dog Life; even those dogs that generally get along can break into an argument if one or both are
offended or challenged.

2. Study your dog. Understand his body language so you can know when he might be reaching his limits with another dog. If a real
fight does happen, learn from it so it doesn't happen again.

3. Avoid triggers. As with children, fights can spark up from the most seemingly insignificant triggers, even between dogs that are
buddies. Some common triggers: Arguments over toys, food, favorite dogs or even favorite people (resource guarding). A perceived
challenge such as intense eye contact, tug-o-war game or rough play can set a dog off. Know your dog's triggers and work with a
trainer to desensitize him to these as much as possible so they lose their charge.

4. Nix nose-to-nose greets. In the quest to make dogs more dog-social, resist the temptation to allow your dog to do rushed nose-to nose greets between dogs that don't know each other. Instead, create a ritual of slow, uber-relaxed intros that include side-by-side
walks in neutral territory. Taking your time will give you the chance to read signals that say, "I don't really like this dog."

5. Be leash savvy. Leash reactivity (an annoying behavior of lunging or growling on leash) can start when dogs become ever more
frustrated about greeting other dogs. Handlers can create fast improvements by curbing leash greets and taking on the new role of
confident clown and animated leader. Look for training classes that teach pet owners how to motivate their pets and capture their
attention with fun and rewarding distraction exercises that teach a dog that other on-leash dogs are off-limits.

6. Know the realities. Studies ( Cornell University , NY ) have shown that same-sex housemate pairs, especially females, have more
problems than opposite sex pairs. Excitement is one of the biggest fight triggers between dogs of all breeds. The study indicated that
conflict in the home is much more common between female dogs while males were more likely to instigate fights outside of the
house. Treatments most often recommended for household aggression are desensitization with counter conditioning and obedience
training.

7. Know your dog's tolerance level. Do you know your dog's limits with other dogs? Does he has a short fuse, a long fuse or
somewhere in between? Be realistic about what he can put up with from other dogs and what kind of play or behavior he will not
tolerate.

8. Protect your dog from a bad dog-dog experience. Not all dogs want or need to be friends with other dogs. Smart socializing
involves respecting your dog's quirks and setting him up for only success with other dogs. Appropriate play partners and positive
dog-dog interactions will increase his tolerance for all kinds of dogs and dog behavior. The more positive interaction any dog gets
with other dogs, the more likely he will develop and maintain dog-tolerant behavior for life.

About the Author:

Donna Reynolds is the co-founder and Executive Director of Bay Area Doglovers Responsible About Pitbulls (BADRAP). She lives
in Oakland with her husband, four dogs, and ever changing foster dogs. She can be reached at donna@badrap.org

The Bitter sweet story of Van Gogh




All of us who share life with the Pit Bull know that tales of their loyalty and courage abound. THis blog is about one such story that forever touched me and just wanted to share with all.. it is so bitter sweet

Remembering Van Gogh
Written by Cydney Cross, President of OUT OF THE PITS rescue-

Recently New York State's Capital District newspapers and TV stations ran an account of a fire in Copake, NY in which Lydia Bulger, a longtime Copake resident perished. The tragedy further deepened when it was learned that the fire had claimed another victim, Lydia's Pit Bull Terrier, "Van Gogh". I'd like you to read my brief account of Van Gogh's life, a true hero-one whose presence changed lives– the seven-year-old dog who stayed with his 77-year-old friend, Lydia, to the very end.

As part of a rescue organization, I had been rescuing Greyhounds from New England dog tracks a few years back when I and Valerie Lennie of Bar Mike Kennel, (the kennel that helped us with the greyhounds), began to learn of another breed being badly exploited in this country, the American Pit Bull Terrier. It was then when we began to learn of a very special brindle Pit Bull being held in the Dutchess County SPCA in Hyde Park, NY–one who, according to a shelter volunteer, "just has something that goes right through you when he looks at you." He had been waiting for a home for months, and had been dubbed "Van Gogh" by shelter staff because of his very short ears (crudely cut off by someone.) Finally, after hearing about him over and over again, we called the shelter and told them that we would pick him up and find him a home, just as we did with Greyhounds. They were delighted, as he was very special to everyone, even though 40% to 60% of their large facility was occupied by Pit Bulls or crosses. The staff was especially delighted because some "suspicious-looking" visitors had looked him over more than once. Like most urban shelters, this one tries very hard to keep Pit Bulls out of the hands of those who would abuse them for fighting or drug-guarding purposes.

The day before we were to pick up our new charge, we got a distressed call from the shelter telling us that the night before, someone had broken into the outside kennel runs and stolen Van Gogh and another Pit Bull, Pinkie, who had been spayed only the day before. Everyone was devastated; police were contacted; newspapers and TV stations ran stories and pictures; shelter staff walked the streets searching. Animal Control Officer Kathy Thorpe joined the effort, and volunteers began to stand guard at the shelter nightly. We were haunted with the knowledge the Van Gogh and Pinkie were now almost certainly living a hellish life.

Three months later, on a frigid January morning, an auto mechanic at a Poughkeepsie, NY repair shop climbed into a customer's car to drive it into the garage. As he sat in the vehicle, two dogs leaped onto him from the back seat. Terrified, the mechanic jumped from the car and called police. The police in turn called Kathy Thorpe, who later told me; "I arrived and these two skeletons all slashed up were jumping up on me tails wagging like crazy. Only after I saw the stitches on her belly did I understand that this was Pinky. Never have I wanted to have a cell phone as much as I did during that drive back to the shelter. Van Gogh and Pinky were back!"

Van Gogh's wounds were such that he had to be hospitalized before coming back into the shelter. But as soon as he did, shelter staff called us and asked if we would take both dogs. They were afraid that the individuals who had stolen the pair, would be back. We drove to Hyde Park that afternoon, and brought back the two skin and bone creatures. Van Gogh was still torn up and bumpy with deep abscesses; Pinky's white face and black body was a road map of nasty red gashes. Within a couple of months both were somewhat recovered, and Pinky was adopted and adored by a local family. Van Gogh was being fostered by member of the Greyhound rescue organization and her twelve Greyhounds. With her, Van Gogh began attending all of the New York Capital District Greyhound Adoption Clinics. Everybody there could feel the power of his presence, and what Cydney coined the "all-knowing" expression in his eyes as he looked onto the world. Glossy brindle now and imposing, he not only represented his breed magnificently, he had a dignity that was almost spiritual.

Some time later, we were very happy when an old friend, Phil Luning, decided to take Van Gogh home and make him his own. This was so clearly what Van Gogh wanted and needed, that within weeks his total devotion to Phil and his mom, Lydia Bulger, was almost palpable. Out in public, Van Gogh's eyes never left their faces and Lydia began calling this majestic creature her "baby". For Van Gogh, it was a well-earned paradise at last. The Bulger home was part of a family compound and every member of the family was a dog lover. Van Gogh loved, and was loved by, an extended family that included Lydia's grandchildren which he delighted in pulling through the snow on a sled. When Phil's mother fell and broke her hip, Van Gogh became her constant companion.

Last March, just over four years from the day Van Gogh finally found his home, Lydia and Van Gogh were alone in the house when a fire broke out. Due to her broken hip she was still an invalid. True to the legendary loyalty of his breed, Van Gogh stayed by her side to the end. Many at Lydia's funeral mourned the great dog's passing, and tried to comfort Phil who had lost not only his mother, but also his best friend.

Van Gogh did not live and die in vain. It was he who provided the original inspiration for Out of the Pits Inc. He showed us what a Pit Bull was meant to be. Without him this website would not exist, and more importantly, hundreds of Out of the Pits adoptions would never have taken place. Each of these now-beloved dogs would have completed their already-started journey to an early death.

Van Gogh will stand forever in our minds and hearts as the quintessential Pit Bull–a dog that continues to offer only love and loyalty in spite of mankind's brutal treatment.

Friday, May 22, 2009

pit bulls on the patio has been cancelled

PIT BULLS ON THE PATIO" HAS BEEN CANCELLED



OUR MONTHY DOG WALK HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO THE NATION WEATHER CHANNELS WARNING OF RAIN AND LIGHTNING



OUR TOP PRIORITY IS THE SAFETY OF ALL OUR WALKERS
(2 LEGGED AND 4).

WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE LATE NOTICE AND WE ARE TOTALLY BUMMED AS THIS WALK WAS SURELY TO BE ONE OF OUR BEST ONES YET AND GASPARS WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO HOSTING US AGAIN.

wE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT OUR NEXT EVENT ON JUNE 27TH AT MAC FARLANE PARK IN TAMPA . PLEASE CHECK OUT
http://www.msplinks.com/http://www.meetup.com/Pit-Bulls-Pounding-the-Pavement/ AND http://www.msplinks.com/http://pitbullspoundingthepavement.blogspot.com/ FOR UPCOMING EVENTS

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Fundraiser for PIT STOP BULLYS





Come out and Show PSBR Support Thursday, May 21st! from 5pm-8pm

Please come out and support Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement's all time favorite Pit Bull Rescue group PIT STOP BULLYS in their efforts to raise money for their rescue organization and two of their very needy and deserving pitties: Clancy and Johnny Boy.

Sweet Tomatoes on Dale Mabry just south of Bearss has offered Pit Stop Bully's Rescue to 'Fun-Raise'!
All you have to do is come in and eat on the above date between the set time frame! Make sure to order a beverage and present the attached flyer for it to count!
Sweet Tomatoes will donate 15% of all sales to PSBR!!!
All you have to do is plan to go out to dinner!!!! How easy is that???

**All money made form this fundraiser will go towards Clancy and Johnny Boy's
needed medical care. Please pass onto your friends!**

***** ALL WORDING IN PINK OR BLUE IS A LINK TO THE EVENT *****

Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement is so thank for and truly appreciate the great efforts and sacrifices that this organization as well as other pit bull rescue organizations have made to ensure a brighter future for once unwanted and homeless pit bulls in the Tampa Bay area. We are so humbled.

Please come out and show your support and give thanks to the ones who put their hearts on the line everyday for our beloved breed.

Hope to C-YA there
CJ

Saturday, May 9, 2009

New Jr Associate Board Members


Congrats to Junior and Renae Biggs in Becoming PBPP's first
JR ASSOCIATE BOARD MEMBERS

Junior and Renae have always given 100% of their time and energies towards the betterment of PBPP and are true advocates for the breed.
Where ever PBPP was so where they, from helping set up and break down at events, passing out event flyers, contacting media outlets, and assisting others at our events.

Because we recongized thier true love for the breed and thier true commitment to PBPP we as the board aggreed that they would make an excellent addition to our board.

We look forward to having them be part of our organization!

Monday, May 4, 2009

ARTHRITIS AWARENESS WALK




PBPP BLUE SHIRTS EVENT-
From time to time the PBPP Board members (blue shirters) are invited to participate in and or are involved in Community events such as Adopt-a-thons, awareness walks and just getting out there to promote responsible ownership any time an opportunity knocks. Even though we would love nothing better than to have a bunch of responsible Pit bull owners show up to represent our breed These events are not official PPBP events therefor we can not open them up to the general public or our monthly "pounders" to participant in.

This past week end was such an event :
THe Arthritis Foundation
THe Blue shirters participated in the one mile dog walk event and was able to donate a few bucks to the cause. We had a great time and was able to show the public that upstanding community oriented citizens do own this breed. So we were again honored to represent our breed in positive image at a positive event .. "CHANGING PERCEPTIONS ONE POSITIVE PAW STEP AT A TIME "

"GOING ORANGE TO FIGHT ANIMAL CRUELTY "PBPP STYLE










AND PBPP'S GIRL PITTIE WINNERS IS : Ms Lucy Loo

Runner Ups Stanley ( fake dreads ) and Tejas ( Handsome Blue)

Our last walk's theme was centered around "GOING ORANGE TO FIGHT ANIAML CRUELTY" which was a campaign that the ASPCA was sponsoring.
Our fundraising efforts didnt go as well as we had hoped but we plan on doing it again and this time we promise to make it bigger and better as the ASPCA is an awesome organization who are huge supporters of the Pit Bull Community so in turn we need to show our appreciation and support for them at every opportunity possible...

We had a wonderful stroll through the park on such a nice day with so many responsible owners in a sea of orange !!!! ..
Please check out our pictures of the event at http://www.myspace.com/pitbullspoundthepavement

Monday, April 6, 2009

PBPP is going Orange April 26th 9:00am


PIT BULLS POUNDING THE PAVEMNT IS GOING ORANGE


lOCATION CHANGE FROM AL LOPEZ PARK TO :
MacFarlane Park
1700 N MacDill Ave
Tampa, FL 33601
MAP LINK


Hello
PBPP IS GOING ORANGE TO HELP FIGHT ANIMAL CRUELTY!!!!!
THIS MONTHS WALK IS TO HELP SUPPORT THE ASPCA'S EFFORTS TO FIGHT ANIMAL CRUELTY.
Pit Bulls represent an increasing if not highest percentage of total canine animal cruelty cases. Every one is encouraged to dress yourself and your dog in ORANGE. Will forward pictures of the best dressed to the ASPCA for thier "GO ORANGE PHOTO CONTEST"


We have changed this months event to SUNDAY due to PBPP Board Members and Patrol team member attending training classes and other events.

Due to the warm Florida weather that is about to over come us, PBPP has decided to start holding all events in the morning to beat the heat. The health of our 2 legged and 4 legged are our top priority. We have decided that this month will be a shorter walk around the shaded park and afterwards hold a small responsble owner & training seminar, and some semi-socialization time along with some HOT DOGS and DRINKS .

A $3.00 Donation is being requested for the Hot Dog Plates and Drinks (to cover the costs).We appreciate any additional donations as this helps us cover our costs so that we can continue in our efforts to promote responsible ownership and help our Pet Bull Community.

Please arrive promplty for registration at 9:00 am to 9:30

thank you for being a responsible PET BULL owner !
Crystal AND THE PBBP GANG
Founder /Executive Director
Pit Bulls Pounding the Pavement Inc
www.pitbullspoundingthepavement.com

Saturday, March 21, 2009

PBPP BSL AWARENESS WALK





Yes Florida is under BSL threat again(UGH!!) with numerous bills currently beING reveiwed by different legislatvie committees..HB 189, and SB 922. These bills follow the findings of an interim report commissioned by the Senate Community Affairs Committee which recommended that local governments be granted the right under their home rule authority to enact breed specific regulations such as registering, muzzling, neutering, or destroying the dog.

SO PBPP held a BSL AWARENSS WALK to bring awareness to this cause on March 14th at Al Lopez Park in Tampa . Please see our website pics at of the walk www.pitbullspoundingthepavement.com at and our Myspace site
at http://www.myspace.com/pitbullspoundthepavement for all the wonderful pictures of the event.

BSL TAMPA BAY NEWS
PBPP recently spoke with Mr Bill Armstrong and Mr Dennis McCollough (Head of the Departments) at Hillsborough County Animal Services and they made it quite clear that they are going to stand strong on their beliefs that BSL is not the right direction to go, are totally against it and have been taking strong steps and measures to ensure that these current ridiculous BSL legislation do not pass.

HCAS has come a long way in its efforts to support the Bully Breed Community. Many people do not realize the hard and sometimes heartbeaking work that they do for this community but they are here for the Bully Community.
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PBPP would like to thank them for their efforts past and present and for their continued support and encourgement.

Please check out a recent news interview with Mr Armstrong telling the news reporter "you think that you will be able to come into my house and take my familly pet..I DONT THINK SO" ..
ROCK ON MR ARMSTRONG!!! PBPP stands behind you!!
click on MYFOX TAMPA BAY http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/dpp/news/local/hillsborough/pit_bull_ban_030209

PBPP encourages you to write to your state representative and tell them how this would effect you and your family. That this will only effect the responsible onwers. For more information please go to our website page on BSL

Dog Bless to all and thank you for being a responsible owner
CJ

Monday, March 2, 2009

Feb's Walk : One Paw Step at a Time




We are:
"Changing the Public's Perception One Paw Step at a Time"


Saturday Feb 28th was our latest monthly dog walk event and it was totally AWESOME. The venue, the people and the dogs were all TOP NOTCH!!
The weather was at times chilly and we had some gusty unpredictable winds but that didn't stop 50+ enthusiastic walkers from coming out to lend their support in the efforts to promote responsible ownership and positive breed/owner image. We got quite a few positive comments, shout outs and honks from the passing vehicles.
After the walk our we all chilled and got to socialize and get to know each other and even got some PITTIE EDUCATION in while our venue and sponsor - THE HIP HOP SODA SHOP bent over backwards to accommodate both the 2 legged and the 4. They really Rocked and we can't thank them enough!!
All in all it was a fantastic day and one of our best walks ever!!.
Thank you to all that came out to support the need to promote responsible ownership !!!!
We hope to see you in two weeks at our next walk on March 14th at Al Lopez Park in Tampa at 3:30PM
take care and DOG Bless
We are:
"Changing the Public's Perception One Dog Paw Step at a Time"

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

ACCEPTING PERSONAL RESPONSIBILTIES






WHERE HAS ACCEPTING PERSONAL RESPONSIBILTIES & ACCOUNTABILTIES GONE ?

WE LIVE IN A DISPOSABLE SOCIETY AND UNFORTUNATELY IT IS EASIER TO JUST DISPOSE OF ITEMS THAT WE NO LONGER WANT OR FIND VALUE IN.

DOGS UNFORTUANETLY FALL IN THIS CATEGORY WAY TOO TOO MUCH!!!.

THERE WAS A TIME THAT PEOPLE TOOK RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THIER ACTIONS OR LACK OF. WE AS A SOCIETY NEED TO GET BACK TO THAT.

PBPP IS NOT A RESCUE BUT WE MAY BE ABLE OFFER SOME HELP!!

AT THIS TIME WE CAN NOT TAKE IN ANY DOGS AS WE ARE NOT A CERTIFIED RESCUE NOR DO WE HAVE THE FUNDS NOR SPACE.

WE ARE MORE THAN HAPPY TO HELP THOSE WHO WANT TO HELP THEMSELVES . WE WILL NOT BE A DUMPING GROUND FOR IRRESPONSIBLE OWNERS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR AN EASY WAY OUT!

OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU KEEP YOUR DOG AND BE ABLE TO PROVIDE A HAPPY AND SAFE HOME FOR ALL.

WE CAN PROVIDE TRAINING , HOME EVALUATIONS AND MAKE SUGGESTIONS IN ORDER TO REACH THE GOAL OF YOU KEEPING YOUR DOG.

BUT IF YOU ARE UNABLE OR UNWILLING TO KEEP YOUR DOG THEN WE WILL BE:

1. WE WILL MORE THAN HAPPY TO HELP YOU LOCATE A NEW HOME FOR THE DOG .WHILE YOU FOSTER THE DOG IN NEED DOG.
(PERSONAL RESPONSIBILTY TIME!! TIME FOR YOU TO STEP UP TO THE PLATE AND BE WHAT THAT DOG REALLY NEEDS AND FOR YOU DO THE RIGHT THING )

2. WE WILL BE MORE THAN HAPPY TO POST THE DOG ON DIFFERENT WEBSITES, ACCEPT & REVEIW ADOPTION APPLICATIONS AND DO HOME CHECKS.( WE WILL EXPECT YOU TO PLAY A PRO ACTIVE PART IN THESE EVENTS AND SEARCHES & WE EXPECT YOU TO WORK JUST AS HARD AS WE WILL )

3. WE WILL EVEN DRIVE THEM TO THEIR NEW FUREVER HOME AND DO MONTHLY FOLLOW UP AND HOUSE CHECKS .
PLEASE KNOW THAT MOST RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS HAVE ANY WHERE FROM 25-30 DOGS IN NEED OF PLACEMENT EVERY DAY . THE AVERAGE COST TO REHOME A DOG IN A RESCUE SETTING IS ON AVERAGE OF $250.00-$500.00 PER DOG. KEEPING THE DOG AT THE CURRENT PLACE OF RESIDENCE AS A FOSTER IS REALLY THE BEST OPTION

Saturday, February 14, 2009

POUNDING THE PAVEMENT ON 02/28/09


Hello
Its time again for our Pit Bulls to get out there and strut their stuff. Time for all owners to get out there and promote a positive image and responsible ownership. Let the public see how wonderful this breed really is. Theres nothing better than seeing a dozen or two Pit Bulls nicely walking down the street in unison and harmoniously intuned to their owners and their surroundings. This is the image we want and need the public to see and know.

PBPP wants to thank THE HIP HOP SODA SHOP for their support and allowing us to use their business for our walk site.
Hip Hop Soda Shop
1241 E Fowler Ave
Tampa FL

Registration starts at 2:30.. walk to start at 3:30ish

Prior to the walk we will have a place set up out side for registration and our meet and greets.
After the walk come in side and enjoy some good Southern Food and shop for Pit Bull Gear items.

HHSS is not allowed to serve outside and Dogs are not allowed inside (pesty City ordinances) so if you bring your crates our PBPP staff will be more than happy to PIT SIT while you go inside and check it out.

Please note that PBPP is about the "Betterment of the Breed". Some times we have a big crowd and sometimes we dont. We ask that all walkers put themselves in check and leave their ego's at the curb.
to paraphase President John F Kennedy "Dont ask what the breed can do for you ..but what can you do for the Breed"

For more information Please check out www.pitbullspoundingthepavement.com or contact CJ at 813-516-4209
Hope to see you there...

Proudly Pounding the Pavement for our Pits
THe PBPP Crew

Sunday, February 8, 2009

retractable leashes and harness'..really???


retractable leashes and harness'..really???
People ....really??
People it screams.. I AM A LAZY INATTENTIVE, IRRESPONSIBLE OWNERS and I AM TEACHING MY DOG BAD MANNERS !!!!

Yesterday PBPP had the pleasure of having a booth at a wonderful event called
WOOFSTOCK in Largo FL. PBPP was able to do what we love to do the most..which is to promote the breed in a positive manner and talk to the public about our breed and the issues that surround them. PITTIE talk is always fun!!

However, sitting in the booth we were able to look out at the crowd , admire the many different breeds in attendance and observe the behavior of the dogs and their owners.

I must say I was thrown for a loop and I am still shaking my head in bewilderment.

SO many people had their dogs on those pesty retractable leashes and harnesses. The dogs were walking 10 feet
ahead of the owners, getting tangled up with others dogs, many were growling and snapping at other dogs
while the owners were oblivious to their dogs actions as they were too busy talking or browsing the booths.One dog even found his way under our table and was nose to nosing with one of one of our ambassador dogs while his owner was 10 feet away at another booth . The dogs with the harnesses where pulling their owners all over the place or where rearing up on their hind legs like a horse in efforts to meet the dog next to it. SO when I saw the double whammy of retractable leash and harness I just caringed . YIKES!

Come on People....really ?

Harnesses may look nice but in reality you are teaching your dog to pull and not to obey commands. Owners are not able to aptly control their dog on a harness. I have seen too many owners try to control their excited dog on a harness only to have the dog end up doing spinning moves that a ninja would admire and the owners end up all tangle up in the leash. Harnesses and retractable leashes were invented for use by professionals only and used for working dogs such as K-9 patrol and search & rescue dogs in order for those dogs to cover more ground during their searches and so the handler not have to carry a 20 foot leather leash.

Some how the public has gotten their hands on them and the lack of dog safety and owner sensibility's has been thrown out the window.
you simply can not control you dogs actions on a harness and retractable leash. You should never let your dog walk in front of you anyways...WHose leading who? WHose bossing who? Whose really in charge the human or the dog...duh in this situation THE DOG!!!!

Here at PBPP we teach and preach that our dogs must be on their best behavior and manners at all times and
that we as owners demand nothing but the best from our dogs and ourselves. Which includes no matter what we are doing
we have to have our dogs best interest at heart. If I can't pay attention to what my dog is doing and see what her body language
is telling me then I shouldn't be doing what I am doing. I refuse to set my dog up for failure!

It amazes me why we as pit bull owners demand and expect so much from our dogs mostly due to the public demands it
yet the same public refuses to follow suit in their actions with their own dogs....hypocrisy at its finest!!!
Why is okay for their dogs to act like idiots but our dogs must be the image of perfection???

Well what ever the answer is, we here at PBPP will continue to demand the best from our breed and just shake our heads
at the unfortunate souls who just have no clue and to to those refuse to hold the mirror up to themselves yet are quick to point the finger.

POUND ON Tampa Bay Pitties..Pound ON..making a difference one paw step at a time!!

Monday, January 5, 2009

Happy New Year



Hello Walkers ...
Happy New Year !! Hope all enjoyed their holidays and had thier fill of family,love and laughter along with way too many college bowl games (Brutus says USC ROCKS)!!


Well another year is upon us and I beleive that this will be the year that the Tampa Bay area steps up to the plate and shows how a community of Pit Bull enthusist can come together and make a real difference in securing better days for our beloved breed.

The next PBPP is tentatively scheduled for January 24 th but the location has not been secured. The intended spot of the ST PETE PIER/Vinoy Park is a no-go for right now as there are many permitting requirments that we have to meet first. However I was very encourgaged that the Chief of Police's staff has been so wonderfully helpful and is looking forward to the day that they can accompnay us with our Pounding the Pavment mission.

This months walk wil be dedicated to a special military unit currently serving in Iraq...
We will be sponsoring the 1st AD STB/K9
which is a canine unit based out of Texas
. This is a very special request as they fully understand and are aware of the pass contributions that Pit Bulls have made in pass war efforts.
There are 13 Soldiers including 3 females who are deployed through Sept 2009.
We will be collecting money and or items for the canines as well as for thier handlers.
Everything that the K9's need has been provided for them but really need clean used tennis balls, Kongs, and squeaky toys, the K9's will enjoy playing with them as their reward for a job well done.
The handlers
would appreciate good quality disposable razors and Mach 3, hygiene
products (one female), ground coffee/creamer, snacks, AA AAA batteries For Their Down Time: They would appreciate support letters, current
magazines, card/board games, dominoes, darts/dart boards, AA, AAA batteries,
Music CD's, DVD's, support during the holiday season with decorations/music
and holiday cards to send home to family/friends.

Cold Weather Needs: hand and foot warmers, black knitted hats, gloves, hot
chocolate, and blankets.

Warm Weather Needs: fly swatters, sticky fly paper, small elec. fans,
insect repellent w/Deet, sunscreen w/high SPF, lip balm w.SPF, Cortisone
Cream (anti itch cream), medicated body powder (for heat rash).
So We are asking that all walkers bring something that they can contrubute to the K-9 unit in leiu of monetary donations and to pass the word around to others so that we can support our adopted troop while they are away from thier loved ones and so bravely serving thier country. We will have a bind that hopefully we can fill and ship overseas immediately after the walk.

Thanks for your support for both our troops and the continued sucess of PBPP

Pound on Responsible Pit Bull Owners

CJ