The Sidewalks Part When I Walk My Pit Bull Down Greenwich Avenue - (Part I in a Series)

I am amazed although maybe I shouldn't be at how many people cross the street when they see me coming with Delilah, . The other day, in front of Saks Fifth Avenue, a young man literally jumped out of the way when they saw me, my 12-year-old daughter and Delilah walking down the Avenue. 

"Really?" I gasped. The man said he was sorry and my daugher and I laughed and kept walking. I chalked it up to just another ignorant person whose fear was probably based on misinformation and media bias. Little did he know Delilah would have loved to have smothered him in kisses.

The term pit bull does not refer to a specific breed of dog, but instead is a generic term that describes: American pit bull terrier, American staffordshire terrier, and staffordshire terrier. Contrary to the notion of the gentleman on Greenwich Avenue, these are wonderful loving, loyal family pets. Their affection is boundless and, in fact, an inside joke of pit bull owners is that they make terrible watch dogs.

Greenwich resident Matt Sisto who has a rescued pit bull, Ava, said, "I think everything about them is bigger. Bigger hearts. More cuddle time. More athleticism." He went on to say, "I'm a firm believer in dog ownership for life, and it's not a commitment I take lightly. Ava is my girl, and I'd lay down in traffic for her, and I know she would for me too."

Did you know Helen Keller owned a pit bull? Fred Astaire and Teddy Roosevelt too. In fact, many celebrities who are household names own pitbulls. They were referred to as "nanny dogs." They were hero dogs in during World War I. And don't forget, Petie, of Little Rascals fame was also a pit bull. 

"Punish the Deed, Not the Breed"
Why should these beautiful dogs be crucified for what humans have unjustly done to them. Because these breeds of dog are so often used in fighting rings, people don't realize they are great family pets. This breed is vilified. There is a saying amongst pit bull owners, "Punish the deed, not the breed." The dog does not inherently want to fight, but the owner forcing it to do so. Cruel and unjust but so prevalent in the US that is what has given the dog a bad name. So, instead, let's remember the outstanding qualities that make the pit bull a great family dog.

Next time you see a pit bull out on a walk with its owner, say hi, and I can guarantee you that that dog's story will put a smile on your face. Better yet, when you look to adopt your next dog, consider adopting a pit. You'll quickly learn you're part of a huge community.

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This blog is Part I in a Series about pit bull awareness