Celebrating Pitbull Awareness Month
October begins National Pitbull Awareness Month, an awareness campaign established by dedicated animal advocates and welfare organizations. Its primary aim is to enlighten the public and promote positive discussions about the Pitbull breed. This initiative first took root in October 2007, thanks to the passion and dedication of Jodi Preis, the visionary founder of “Bless The Bullys” organization. Her mission was clear: to challenge the stereotypes surrounding Pitbulls and to increase adoption rates across the United States.
We often encounter speculative myths and misconceptions about the perceived danger of these dogs, which sadly result in breed-specific restrictions. However, it’s essential to understand that these myths are far from the truth. Pitbulls are loving and deserving of the chance to find caring homes.
In honor of National Pitbull Awareness Month, we’ve compiled a list of ways to advocate for our beloved four-legged friends.
Educate and Spread Positive News on Social Media
As you may already know, the term “pitbull” doesn’t represent a distinct breed. Instead, it is a broad category encompassing dogs with characteristic blocky heads and body types. Many dogs labeled “pitbulls” are often a mix of various breeds with uncertain lineage or may even closely resemble other purebred dogs. The breeds and types usually associated with the “pitbull” category are the American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, bull terrier, American bulldog, and American bully. Help spread awareness of these dogs by educating friends and family, sharing adoption stories, and promoting adoptable dogs on your social media or in person.
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Support Your Local Shelter and/or a Pitbull Rescue Organization
If you want to add a new furry family member to your household, think about visiting your local animal shelter or rescue. It is an enriching journey when a shelter dog is correctly matched to your family and lifestyle. Pitbulls make great family dogs with their loving personalities and great exercise companions if you’re looking for a more energetic pup to adopt!
Jersey City’s local animal shelter is the Liberty Humane Society. Its mission is to foster a community of compassion and respect and give animals in need a chance at a lifelong, loving home. The shelter has many pitbulls who are looking to find their loving homes. Visit their website and learn more about the dogs looking for a home. An adoption coordinator can help you find the right match for your family. And if you aren’t able to adopt, they are always searching for foster homes!
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Organize Local Fundraisers and Awareness Campaigns
Local shelters and rescues are always in need of monetary and in-kind donations. Organizing a fundraiser, whether sharing the wish list of your local animal shelter or asking for monetary donations to go towards an emergency fund, is a great way to celebrate Pitbull Awareness Month.
Pitness in the Park
If you want to attend an event to help celebrate pitbulls and support an incredible rescue, check out Pitness in the Park. All tickets and donations go directly to benefit Jersey Pits Rescue – you can purchase them here. They are a foster-based animal rescue group located in New Jersey. Their mission is to provide necessary care to stray, abandoned and surrendered dogs to find them loving permanent homes. The rescue always looks for adopters, fosters, volunteers, and donors. Please visit their website for more information.
Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for October 21st at Hamilton Park in Jersey City from 11 AM to 4 PM. Consider sharing this event with your fellow dog lovers and help come together to advocate and change people’s misconceptions about these dogs. All dog lovers are welcome to attend. You do not need to own a pitbull, and all breeds of dogs are welcome to join.
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How are you celebrating Pitbull Awareness Month? Share photos of your pup with us! We love to hear about their rescue story.
Author: Arati Patel
Arati is a professional immersed in the environmental and animal welfare field. In her free time, she enjoys walking and spending time with shelter dogs, exploring the outdoors, and always ready to find a new coffee shop. A born and raised Jersey City local, she considers herself a life-long learner who is ready to write and craft inspiring stories to share with everyone!
