Pibble humor

Pit Bulls Don't Cry

Rescue groups

There’s several different types of rescue groups right here in Maine.  Some specialize in one breed.  Others accept all breeds and mixes.  These rescues are a small group of dedicated dog lovers.  They rely on a network of foster homes where the dogs live.  Therefore, there’s no specific location where the dogs can be seen.  Many rescue groups do participate in adoption events where you can see some of the adoptable dogs.  Some have you make an appointment with either a rescue group volunteer or the dog’s foster.

Foster homes are very important.  The families are able to evaluate the dogs in a home setting.  By having this precious “hands on” approach they are able to work on any health, behavior, training or social needs.  Working with a dog in this setting helps prepare it for it’s new home.

The rescue has usually covered all the dog’s health needs including any medications, vaccinations, and treatments.  Also the rescue dogs are spayed and neutered before they’re adopted out.  Unfortunately this often puts a strain on a rescue.  Their adoption fees are often higher then humane societies and shelters for this reason.

Sometimes a downside to working with a rescue group is time.  If you’re in a rush for that perfect dog that may frustrate you.  Sometimes there’s waiting lists.  Many places don’t believe in a “first come first serve“ policy.  They want to take the time to make the right match.  Their goal after all is to find the dog a forever home.

If you’re a private person their process may be uncomfortable.  Lengthy applications, interviews, home visits, and reference checks.  Some rescues have a lot of strict policies and regulations.  Often it’s much like the process of adopting a child.  The thing to remember is this is for the best interest of all parties.

The best way to know if going through a rescue is for you is research.   Ask around and get recommendations.  Inquire and ask questions.  If a rescue isn’t open to answering your questions that may raise a red flag.  You can do searches online for rescues in your area.  A very good source to use when looking to adopt a dog is Petfinder.

Good luck in your search for your new family member.  Remember every Pit Bull that is rescued and given a new homes saves another.  You have helped free up valuable space for another to be pulled into a foster home.  

Pit Bull friendly rentals

Often times it’s hard to find a dog friendly rental. It’s even more difficult when that dog is a Pit Bull. Sometimes the reason given is insurance issues. Then there’s those that are just flat out against any “bully breed” in general.

After some extensive research online the results were not very helpful. It was suggested that anyone in Maine looking for dog friendly housing check out  www.homeproperties.com. Another frequent suggestion was craigslist where you’d have the option of finding homes or apartments that are privately owned. Places like complexes or condos are more likely to have restrictions.

Good Tip - When inquiring about a place don’t automatically mention the breed.  In other words don’t say, “Do you allow Pit Bulls?” You can imagine what the answer would probably be each time. Instead word it something like this, “What is your pet policy?” You should be able to get a sense of how to proceed by the way they answer. If asked about your dog’s breed be honest.

It won’t be easy. However, if you’re persistent and don’t give up you may find that one landlord that is willing to give you both a chance. That’s all you need to prove yourselves. Be proactive and positive. Don’t be negative and defensive.

Show the perspective landlord why you (and your dog) would be good tenants. Make a point to have the landlord meet the dog. Be prepared for any reaction. Remember no matter what the reaction is you have to be polite, professional and show a positive attitude. You don’t want to give the anti bully people anymore fuel for their fire. Assure the landlord that they have nothing to worry about.  Ask them if they have any questions or concerns. Explain to them what you’re willing to do to prove that this arrangement can work for all parties.


Suggestions for helping your argument:

• Spay/Neuter
• Vaccinations are UTD.
• Obedience Training
• Good Citizen Program.  
• Be sure your Pit Bull is housetrained.
• Offer to pay an additional pet deposit.
• Always clean up after your dog. 
• Curb excessive barking. 
• Never let them free roam. 
• Prove to everyone (neighbors included) you’re a responsible Pit Bull owner.

If you’re still not having luck convincing a landlord don’t give up. Try placing Rental Wanted ads. Be upfront and honest about what you’re looking for. You never know someone may just see your ad and be understanding of your situation.

Whatever you do don’t give up. Please don’t back down and decide to get rid of your beloved dog. It may take time but with research and patience you should be able to find that perfect place for the both of you.


HELPFUL RESOURCES:
www.peoplewithpets.com
www.pets911.com
www.petswelcome.com
www.petapartments.net
www.mynewplace.com.
www.apartmentguide.com
www.apartments.com
www.aptsforrent.com

Dog parks

Something to think about: 

There’s mixed views on dog parks in general. Many find these places as a great way to socialize and exercise your dog. However, others see these environments as a potentially dangerous place. Remember dog parks can be a breeding ground for issues that could otherwise be avoided. Not all dogs like to play well with others. There’s also a higher risk of dog bites, fights and even sickness.

Another reason dog parks are often shunned by experts and Pit Bull owners is the sad reality - not everyone is Pit Bull friendly. There are people who don’t want a “bully breed” around them, their dogs, kids, or families in general.

You must be prepared to deal with a possible negative response if you do bring your Pit Bull in a public place. Remember to always be professional and polite. Don’t allow their lack of understanding put you in a defensive mood. If you handle it with a calm cool manner some may actually be receptive to it. Who knows you may even change a few minds. However, there’s always going to be others that won’t be bothered with giving you or your dog a chance. No matter the reaction remember you have to be an ambassador of the breed.

These are just words of caution and reminders. Don’t let this scare you off from trying public places such as dog parks. Just be cautious, responsible, and smart about the situation. Only you know what you and your dog can tolerate.

Note - It’s recommended that your dog has their vaccinations up to date. Also it may even be a good idea to carry proof with you wherever you go.  It’s always best to be prepared.

Is your dog micro chipped?

You may want to consider it. Thousands of lost and abandoned dogs are taken in by shelters and humane societies across the country each year. The sad reality is many of these animals never make it home because they couldn’t be identified. Pit Bulls are a large portion of those displaced dogs.

A simple device the size of a grain of rice could help prevent your dog from being a homeless statistic. Instead they could be one of the dogs that finds their way home safely.

Each microchip is safely implanted by injection under your dog’s skin. The process is quick and often painless. It’s described as being much like your dogs getting their vaccinations.

The chip has a unique identification number. When vets or shelters use special scanners they are able to detect if a dog has one. They can then track down a dog’s owner using a recovery service. (It’s very important to keep these files updated.)

Why Microchip?

• Permanent form of identifying your dog.
• Best way to improve the chances of your dog’s safe return.
• Tags and Collars can become unreliable (lost, stolen, broken, illegible)
• Tattoos can also become hard to read.

If you want to know where to go, the cost, or other information you can contact your vet, local shelters, or go to a local clinic event. Don’t forget the internet is also a good source for learning more.

Note - Our Pit Bull got his 24petwatch microchip in the shelter. Our Lab got her AVID microchip implanted by our vet during her spay. Many of the local clinics that do microchips use home again.  Some companies such as 24petwatch let you register your chip whether it’s their brand or not. For more details check out their websites.

Gating

Using baby gates may be very beneficial for your multi Pibble family, There’s a variety of places these easy to install and durable gates can be found. A cheap alternative getting them second hand or though garage sales.

Step 1 - Each dog will need to be individually trained. They will need to learn that they must respect the gate. Therefore do not allow them to push, chew, or jump over the gate. Also do not allow them to put their paws on it.

Step 2 - The dogs must learn that they are to stop and wait at the gate. This concept can be taught by using treats or food. Also incorporate a signal of some kind. When the dog has done this you can open the gate. This will be the reward for waiting. Each time they’re at the gate make sure they ask permission to enter. Make sure they know that if they nudge or push at the gate they will be forced to go back onto the other side again. Once they are back in a sit/stay position or have acknowledged the signal they may go through the gate again.  Never allow them to bark or whine to get their way. They must be quiet and obey you before they are rewarded with entry.

Step 3 - Make sure the gates are in place before the dogs are allowed into their “free range” areas.

Step 4 - Always make sure any “trigger” items aren’t around that may cause issues. It won’t matter if there’s a gate if a dog covets an item on the other side. Items such as food, toys, and especially bones can be too tempting and cause issues.

Adding the gate concept to your “crate and rotate” schedule allows dogs some “free range” time. However, remember to never use gates as a means of separating dogs when you can’t supervise. Don’t put it past them to find a way to jump over or knock the gate down. It won’t matter how durable a gate is if you have a persistent Pibble intent on chewing their way to the other side.