Post by RealPitBull on Jan 21, 2008 8:35:26 GMT -5
Knox animal shelter tries to set record straight about pit bulls
Posted: Jan 19, 2008 02:02 PM EST
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Young-Williams Animal Center
By WHITNEY HOLMES
6 News Anchor/Reporter
KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- Classes were held Saturday at the Young-Williams Animal Center to provide information on the history, characteristics and temperament of pit bull terriers.
The classes filled almost immediately with people wanting to know what is true and not true about the breed.
The educators debunked what they said are several myths about the breed, including that pit bulls have locking jaws or ones with red noses are more aggressive.
They say the breed gets a bad rap because the dogs often have bad owners, who turn positive traits that stem from the breed's history into negative ones.
"Know that pit bull terriers aren't necessarily bred or destined to be an aggressive animal, necessarily," explained humane educator, Taylor Slemmer. "They are destined to be a bright animal, and a strong animal and a tenacious terrier."
All dogs are born with traits specific to their breeds. It is up to the owner to determine what kind of dog they are.
"Know the tools that are available to you in your community," Slemmer said. "Know the history of your dog and be committed to helping it be the best dog it can be. It's up to the owner to lead the way to help out animals."
Because pit bulls are big and strong, they are capable of doing more harm than other breeds.
"Because it's a larger dog, a stronger dog, and it was bred to be a strong dog, it could bring about more injury than a smaller dog. It doesn't mean it is more likely to bite," Slemmer said.
Just like with any type of dog, its owner needs to be a strong leader.
The Young-Williams Animal Center is offering classes for other breeds all year long.
The educators hope to schedule an additional class for pit bulls late spring. If you want to be placed on the waiting list, call (865) 215-6661.
All classes are free of charge.
Posted: Jan 19, 2008 02:02 PM EST
MORE ON THE WEB
Young-Williams Animal Center
By WHITNEY HOLMES
6 News Anchor/Reporter
KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- Classes were held Saturday at the Young-Williams Animal Center to provide information on the history, characteristics and temperament of pit bull terriers.
The classes filled almost immediately with people wanting to know what is true and not true about the breed.
The educators debunked what they said are several myths about the breed, including that pit bulls have locking jaws or ones with red noses are more aggressive.
They say the breed gets a bad rap because the dogs often have bad owners, who turn positive traits that stem from the breed's history into negative ones.
"Know that pit bull terriers aren't necessarily bred or destined to be an aggressive animal, necessarily," explained humane educator, Taylor Slemmer. "They are destined to be a bright animal, and a strong animal and a tenacious terrier."
All dogs are born with traits specific to their breeds. It is up to the owner to determine what kind of dog they are.
"Know the tools that are available to you in your community," Slemmer said. "Know the history of your dog and be committed to helping it be the best dog it can be. It's up to the owner to lead the way to help out animals."
Because pit bulls are big and strong, they are capable of doing more harm than other breeds.
"Because it's a larger dog, a stronger dog, and it was bred to be a strong dog, it could bring about more injury than a smaller dog. It doesn't mean it is more likely to bite," Slemmer said.
Just like with any type of dog, its owner needs to be a strong leader.
The Young-Williams Animal Center is offering classes for other breeds all year long.
The educators hope to schedule an additional class for pit bulls late spring. If you want to be placed on the waiting list, call (865) 215-6661.
All classes are free of charge.