Q&A PAGE WELCOME!

Feel free to send your question to BoldogKennel@comcast.net
and I will answer here. Names are not included in anwser.
ANY pit bull related subject welcome!

10.08.11
Q: Hey my name is Melissa Hyatt -Espinoza, I have been looking at your website, and it physically made me sick to see these dogs hurt. I have two pits and this is just awful. Recently I lost my job of seven years and I have been saying for years that I would love to start a shelter of sorts for unwanted or abused animals. I was wondering if you could possibly point me in. the right direction to do this. Thanks so much
M

A: I have experience with rescue, having been involved for almost 30 years now, with one breed or another, and the very first thing I have to tell you is this: it takes MONEY. Since the invention of the internet, the United States has become "rotten" with ill funded "rescues". Victoria Stillwell (what a great person!) did a episode on It's Me or the Dog where she visited a "rescue" in a southern state, I believe it was, where she found dogs living in squalor. This is far too often the reality of small rescues; dogs living in kennels and crates, with no quality of life, simply being kept alive. Far too often, I have to say, these rescues are based not on the needs of the animals, but rather on the emotional needs of the rescuer.

To build appropriate indoor/outdoor kennel and exercise yards takes money. To do the vet care necessary takes lots of money. To advertise takes money. Sometimes keeping the internet presence takes money. Insurance takes money. Rescue is a money pit. This is why, in the "good old days", rescue was almost always "breed specific", where purebred dogs were rescued by breeders of that specific breed and cared for and placed, one at a time. The dog was taken in and treated as "one of their own" and in this way the expense and work was diluted and you rarely saw these rescuers suffering from "burnout".

Today, the only rescues I know that support their founders are associated with highly questionable ethics where money is concerned. Sad but true. Rescue, done well, is truly not a money making venture. Think about it: you are taking in backyard bred dogs and cats of very questionable genetics, background and health. In order to compete with reputable breeders who can guarantee the health and structure of their animals, a rescue *should* do a complete physical work up, including x-rays of hips and elbows. This is absolutely necessary if the dog is being marketed as a "sport" or "working" dog. Add to that the cost of altering, microchipping and parasite control. The cost of preparing the dog for adoption will always cost more than the price you can charge for most mixed breed - or even pure - rescue dogs.

So, why reinvent the wheel? If you have time and experience, why not offer it to a local shelter or rescue already in operation? Or perhaps you can take in one or two animals at a time, house them in your home, giving them a quality of life sadly missing in larger shelters, placing them as you can?

I hope this helps you? You have a kind heart, and I am sure that any shelter or rescue near you would benefit tremendously from your assistance. Please let me know what you decide.

10.04.11
Q: I don't know if this is your area of expertise but perhaps you could direct me to the best source to answer my questions? Co-workers of mine just had their 2 1/2 year old female pit stolen from their front yard. The circumstances are not important at this time (yes, the owners were negligent). I live in ABQ, NM which has a significant underground pitbull fighting industry. Our town is not progressive enough to have a police or animal control- based task force that addresses this issue specifically. I don't really even know if your expertise is dog fighting but aside from the multiple venues I am currently employing to get the dog back, I want to know what the likelihood would be for dog-fighting creeps to even want to invest the effort it would take to train a sweet,, already 2-year old pit, to fight. I would like to think that this wouldn't be worth their effort - after all, they breed their own animals for purpose of training them from a very young age. I also want to believe that the fact she is a female gives her an advantage. I can see where maybe if these creeps saw an exceptionally large male in someone's yard they might want to get him - either to try to fight him or for breeding purposes. I know they do fight females but these creeps being the macho types - the fights with males tend to bring in the most money. I intend to get more info from my local police and animal control agents but was hoping you knew of someone who might have even infiltrated (undercover) the industry. I need as much info as I can get from someone who really know the facts about this horrid, cruel industry. Thank you, K K

A: I am SO sorry to hear of this theft. There is NOTHING as frightening as having a dog missing. OK, well, let me tell you what I think, after 20 years as an animal control officer, and as a pit bull fancier.

First, I would not assume she was stolen for fighting. True dog fighters (not teenagers, but the kind that actually breed and raise dogs and contest them) rarely steal dogs. They have their own line and wouldn't waste time with a dog from unknown lines. And no, they don't steal dogs for "bait". The whole "bait" idea was something the HSUS and ASPCA came up with to frighten people into supporting them - and hence the fight against dog fighting... In all the material I have gone over, past and present, I have NEVER come across a single instance where the people involved ever used "bait" of any kind. There is simply no reason to. Well bred American pit bulls, when faced against another pit bull, will engage in fighting behavior. There is no "training" per se. Now, some don't want to, and then some dog fighters will set older (usually dogs with few teeth) dogs on them to give them a taste. But it does nothing for a true fighting dog to kill puppies, kittens or other non game animals. It just is very rarely done, and when done, is only by punks, and kids who don't know any better than what they have heard the HSUS saying "should be done".

I feel it is FAR more likely for pit bulls to be stolen for breeding purposes. As well, many dogs get away from yards on their own, and are not stolen. My advice to ANYONE missing a dog, anywhere, is to immediately start visiting ALL shelters in the area EVERY DAY. And don't just call - go there. As well, put up signs made out of styrofoam paper plates and water proof ink. Don't put so much info that no one can read it as they fly by... Just put LOST PIT BULL and a phone number. Don't even put color; you'd be surprised how stupid people can be. I've seen cases where someone won't call on a dog because they think it is "tan" and the owner calls it "brown".

One thing I would like to mention: if and when they get their girl back, you might suggest to them that they place some of THESE stickers around their house. These stickers can be a great help in reducing theft.

Also, do not give up too soon in searching. Many people will keep a dog for weeks, thinking that somehow the owner will "find them". After a month, they may dump the dog at the pound - right when the owner has given up hope. Second, check CRAIGsLIST!! CL is "the" place for dog theives to "flip" dogs. The problem is, some "rescues" sneak dogs out of the area, often out of state, making it nearly impossible for owners to find their dogs. So, when checking CL (check in PETS, not necessarily just Lost and Found") check cities all around your area.

The very best of luck to you, and I sure hope you find her!!! Please let me know!

10.02.11
Q: I received your name from a law enforcement agent in Florida - he mentioned he had spoken with you years ago and was aware of your work with pitbull dogs. He also works in a field which requires trained dogs for search/rescue/detection. A week or so ago on the news, there was a story about a swimmer's pitbull discarded in the trash. It's since made worldwide news, as has the woman who rescued the dog, Erica Daniel. She has an organization, called Dolly's Foundation. A dog on there caught my eye, because of her ball drive. My friend in FL mentioned your name as a possible contact person who might be able to use this dog as a working dog. Or perhaps as someone who might have some connections to find this dog a home and purpose.

The link to the information about Tega is here. If you think you could be of help to her - that would be wonderful. Eric Daniel is the head of Dolly's foundation and her contact information can be found on the page. Even if you don't know if you would take Tega to train her to become a LawDog, if you know of anyone else in the country who might be interested in her, I just ask that you forward this along.

http://dollysfoundation.org/2011/08/25/underdog/

All the best - and thank you for what you do! Sincerely, A M

A: Thank you for your email A. The LawDogsUSA program had to be shut down. I got to a point where I had quite a few requests for dogs, however, as a single person living on a disability pension, there was no way I could fund the housing and training of the dogs and handlers. I was unable to secure funding (I'm not good at that kind of thing) and so, sadly, am no longer in a position to place dogs with law enforcement. I have seen where a few other pit bulls have been accepted however, which is great!

Sadly, the number of American pit bulls needing homes is staggering. There simply are NOT enough homes for them. Personally, I would rather see these dogs euthanized than stuck in so called "no kill" ( I call them "no life") kennels, where they become frustrated, bored and half crazy. I just have no help to offer, not knowing anyone looking for a rescue dog at this time. I'm very sorry. I certainly appreciate your taking this effort on behalf of this dog... I wish I had better news.

10.01.11
Q: I myself along with my father and brother have been breeding pitbulls for about 3 years now just to give you an idea of where im coming from. i have been looking over your site trying to further educate myself on the breed for just a few hours now and i can already tell that we may very well be stitched from the same piece of cloth. i agree with most everything you say on your site so far. however we do breed dogs and sell them i would have to disagree with every bit of heart i have that we hurt the breeds image. we do breed very correct dogs and sell them to good homes and we keep up with the dogs on a regular basis. our dogs are bred for the specific purposes of service and companionship. i understand what your getting at with the term puppy peddlers and i understand how you can disagree with the profiting from these wonderful dogs. i feel that any family lucky enough to find us and buy one of our dogs will in return profit more than we ever could as well as help the breed. we train dogs as well in areas such as obedience and just general manners that these dogs need in every day life whether they leave our facility as a service dog or just an all around best friend. i also agree that you should take your dog out in the public eye given they have manners. i would never take a dog out that was not going to give the breed a good image. our dogs are mostly ukc registered in case your wondering. mostly i just wanted you to know how much i enjoy your site and how much i agree with your philosophies on the matters at hand. even though we do have a few differences in opinion, i hope that maybe we can build some kind of team here in the fight against BSL. whether that means us e-mailing regularly or even just as little as trying our best to help this friendly, loyal, and just all around great breed of dog persevere the problems that lye ahead. i would greatly appreciate any kind of literature on the breed that you may know of that could aid me in any way in helping the breed. i would like to get some kind of feedback from you on this but i do understand if it takes you a few months. you seem to be a very good person with the best of intentions. i appreciate everything you do for the dogs. thank you.

your friend, R H

A: I certainly enjoy hearing from other serious breeders and breed stewards! I don't mean to imply that EVERYONE who sells puppies is a "peddler". Without breeders, we would not have these great dogs! I want to be clear, as I certainly don't want to offend serious breeders!

In my opinion - and it is just my opinion - the difference between a serious breeder and a peddler is this: A serious breeder learns about their breed for at least a couple years before breeding, they absolutely at a bare minimum check hips with OFA or Pennhip, and hopefully screen breeding dogs for CERF, OFA heart and elbows as well. They have a firm idea about temperament or purpose, and breed for that, culling dogs that are not up to their (high) standards. Most importantly, to me, are those who breed FOR THEMSELVES, are able to have a waiting list for surplus pups they produce.

A peddler? Well, they don't health check, simply (and ignorantly stating "my dogs are fine") and they produce pup not for themselves but simply to resale. Think people who advertise on Craig's List or the local cheapy paper...

I would love to talk "shop" with you, and hear about your dogs! And thank you very much for your kind words!

09.25.11
Q: miss dee
you are a true steward of the breed and in my opinion 2nd to none !
my name is T E, i am a fireman with the city of Newark NJ writing this note inform you that im attempting to do my part for the APBT breed and all breeds as well, though i could never wear your shoes im going to try to bring awareness as far as bsl , health issues, well being , and living conditions, however im no expert in neither field , im just a regular bulldog lover that wants my family members to get a fair shake in life! with that said im asking permission to use information on your site that discusses bsl , health, living contitions, and also history of the APBT on my new letter that i am starting , whatever your decision, i still love you and keep up the great work , job well done , your are an asset to the bully breeds , god bless

A: Well, mercy, thank you very much for your very kind words! It really feels good to share my life experiences with those who love these dogs as much as I do... Certainly, by all means, please use any of my printed material in any way which will assist the dogs or their owners. That is why I put it up there, in hopes it may help someone, somewhere. All I ask is that people provide a link (if on the internet) with the material back to WorkingPitBull.com, and if they provide it as written material that they simply credit the material as coming from WorkingPitBull.com. I have to admit I am boggled when I see whole PAGES of my site swiped and put up by others with no credit, etc... Simply rude, but as they say, imitation is the best form of flattery! : )

So, yes, T, please use my stuff in anyway which you deem helpful, and best of luck to you in your efforts. Your part of the good old USA really needs some good pit bull stewards like you!

Best, Diane

09.26.11
Q: Hello, my name is Cristina Opazo. I have a "Razor Edge" Pit Bull. I was told that their blood-line is from Hawaii. I was wondering if this so called type of breed is legit and real. Are they the same as the American Pit Bull Terriers? I would like to know more information on them if possible.

A: Goodness. Well, to answer your question I searched "origin of Razor's Edge bloodline" and found the following on "Answers.com". I feel it states the obvious in a pretty non biased way...

short muscular mixed breed, selectively breed for personality traits such as loyalty, loving and calm temperament and physical traits of large muscular pitbull dogs. Razors Edge is a blood line started by Dave Wilson in Virginia in the 1980's. The dogs "pitbulls" were selectively breed to be more of a bully companion dog rather than an athletic and agile pitbull. These dogs are very social for the most part and lack the more desirable conformation qualities that the true American Pitbull Terrier has. *For example; they do not conform to UKC show standards as they are short and compact with oversized heads. They lack the drive of a normal APBT as well. They may make an excellent pets, but care should be taken to select an ethical and quality breeder.

Now, obviously, everyone is going to have a different opinion, depending on where their loyalties lay. But, the facts are, the bloodline was started by Dave Wilson, in the 1980's, and is a mixture of at least American Staffordshire and American pit bull. While Mr. Wilson states he did no further mixing than the Staff/pit mix, it is painfully obvious that those who picked up on his "blockier is better" idea took things to extreme and crossed in show style bulldog and other breeds.

Today you can find "Razor's Edge" type dogs which range from show winning American Staffordshire's to horrifically unsound "short and lows" which are bred specifically for unsound conformation (wide shoulders, dwarfism and other undesirable traits). The main point, I think, is that the type of people breeding these dogs are generally not serious, dedicated breed stewards. They are people who refuse to understand or breed to the standard (AKC, UKC or ADBA) and simply breed for color and the "fad" appearance. I happen to really despise "fad breeders", meaning those people who jump on the band wagon of a breed that becomes popular and then try and breed a "rare" version to sell to newbies who don't know any better. These people rarely if ever bother to health test, and do not care how much harm they do to the breed. They care about money.

So, no, they were not founded in Hawaii. Are they "legit" or "real"? I would have to say no. They are not "real" because breeders use the name "pit bull" for them, but refuse to breed them for the structure or personality of the traditional American pit bull. I don't consider them "legit" because they are a "fad" version of the true American pit bull, and I have yet to find a "legit" breeder who even health tests or titles their dogs.

Why do people feel they must change the pit bull? For those who want a deadhead, structurally unsound, overly built dog, get a show bulldog. For those who want a 100 pound dog, get a bull mastiff... All I ask is that they respect the pit bull enough to leave him as he is. Hope this helps answer your questions.

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