Rescued fighting dogs get second chance
Dozens of American pit bull terriers netted in the largest dogfighting raid in U.S. history are finding homes despite nay-sayers who predicted aggression or trauma would make them unsuitable as pets.More than 120 of the animals have been placed in foster homes or are headed there this week through the efforts of pit bull rescue groups throughout the U.S. An additional 117, await their turn.
"They are not a vicious animal. They are the victims of abuse," said Debbie Hill, vice president of operations for the Humane Society of Missouri. "They only want to be in someone's home, on a couch, or sleeping at someone's feet, maybe chew up a rug or two for entertainment."
In the days leading up to the July 8 raid, the Humane Society secured an industrial warehouse in St. Louis that it transformed into an emergency shelter for the hundreds of dogs seized in Missouri and Illinois. About 100 dogs seized in other states were taken by other rescue groups.
Once at the Missouri shelter, dogs were tested by animal behaviorists, taken on walks, and allowed to chew on bowling balls stuffed with peanut butter.
The Human Society offered The Associated Press first access to the site Tuesday.
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Linda Campbell plays with dogs at an emergency shelter that has been housing hundreds of pit bulls seized as part of the largest dogfighting raid in U.S. history Tuesday, Nov. 10, in St. Louis. Dozens of American pit bull terriers netted in the largest dogfighting raid in U.S. history are finding homes despite naysayers who predicted aggression or trauma would make them unsuitable as pets. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
Comments
If it wasn't for Debbie Hill and people like her, my dog would have been killed as soon as they figured out she was from a fighting ring. Instead, I have the most affectionate, loving, wonderful dog I've ever met. Thank you to the rescuers!
Posted by: Caitlin | November 11, 2009 11:42 AM