New Leash on Life & Pit Bulls: A Love Story

Over the last 3+ years, the staff and volunteers at New Leash on Life Chicago (Chicago, Illinois 60618) have rescued all kinds of dogs. They pride themselves on seeing the potential of each and every dog that they take into rescue. Pit Bulls are one breed that has gotten a bad rap over the years, so it's fortunate that New Leash has such a soft spot for these lovable dogs (also known as American Pit Bull Terriers or APBTs).

As you can see from the pictures of some their Pit Bull family, Dot (right) and Shaylee (far right), the fun-loving, spunky and affectionate attitude of the APBT is what most admirers come to love best about these dogs. Pit bulls are loyal, bold, and courageous animals. They are alert, naturally clownish, and intelligent...in other words, a whole lot of fun to have around! Many participate and excel in various activities, including obedience and agility trials, Search and Rescue work, and help as as Certified Therapy Dogs in hospitals and nursing homes.

The soft side of the breed shows up in their overwhelming affection for humans. Families that know the breed, including those with children, continue to seek them out as their dog of choice. The favorite place of just about any well-loved Pit Bull is in the lap or on the side of his adoring human.

Who's afraid of the Big Bad Pit Bulls? Well, LOTS of people. This is due in part to some very damaging myths, the deeds of unscrupulous breeders/owners, and the hyped-up media coverage that has been plaguing this breed for years. So many untruths and half-truths have been repeated so many times that the general public has begun to believe fairy tales instead of fact.

Aren't pit bulls MEAN and VICIOUS? No more vicious than golden retrievers, beagles, or other popular dogs! In a recent study of 122 dog breeds by the American Temperament Testing Society (ATT), Pit Bulls achieved a passing rate of 83.3%. That's as good or better than beagles (78.2%), and golden retrievers (83.6%). Click here for more information on Bully Breeds, including APBTs.

Unfortunately, the urban myths and fear caused by the few irresponsible owners of APBTs have taken their toll. In Chicago, Animal Care & Control will not (and cannot) adopt out an APBT to the general public. These amazing dogs can only be taken by rescue groups like New Leash that are able to find them appropriate homes. Those who aren't taken by a rescue group are euthanized.

New Leash is proud to be one of the very few rescue groups in Chicago that is extremely APBT friendly -- so much so that almost 20% of the dogs New Leash has rescued (about 40 dogs!) come from this breeding line. Thanks to your continued support, those lucky and loveable Bullies have a second shot at happiness.

Visit the New Leash on Life Chicago web site for more information on these wonderful dogs.