his new dog

his new dog

a dreaded pit bull

pats my arm

begging for attention

I find I love her, too

Author's Note

Graphic Credit: Google Images

Cesar Millan is a renowned dog psychologist/trainer

Publication Credit: Gusts 2013

Reviews

[Travis Gibson (poetic h..]

This is a subject I hold close to my heart and argue tooth and nail (no pun intended). This breed takes so much flack from the public eye and media, it's ridiculous. They have been bred for aggression since the late 1700' s. Their common name "pit bull" is proof of that. After the use of dogs became less and less necessary, due to industrialization, they became a popular fighting dog. A trend that still exists today. They were called, "bullies of the pit," a term used in British territories. "Pit," was a common term for the makeshift arenas they would be made to fight in, also used for human fighters before boxing became a sanctioned sport; hence, pit fighters. If we are to point any fingers, it can not be on the animal. They are the direct result of our own brutality, and anyone who still practices such use of them cultivates that very ugly piece of our humanity. All animals have a level of unpredictability when domesticated, they should not be considered dangerous for doing what comes natural... all dogs bite! Pit bulls in my life, have proven to be the most loyal breed I've ever encountered. Please, don't condemn such a regal, beautiful creature for our misuse, mistreatment, and lack of understanding. Your piece was one I admire and applaud! Thank you.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thank you, PH. Your review was an instructive and very intelligent vindication of the pit bull dog. I appreciate your taking the time to provide us all with this very valuable information.

[icelandicblue]

I am moved and impressed by your knowledge. People have no clue how these dogs are bred. Females kept in "rape cages" 24/7, smaller dogs are used for bait dogs. Sick dogs are left on the side of the road to die. These dogs know nothing but hardship and violence. I am passionate about these dogs and how they are misrepresented and mistreated in our society. I applaud you for your in-depth knowledge and compassion. We can only measure ourselves on that human continuum by how we treat those who are weaker and dependent on us. Look at how many of Michael Vicks dogs have been rehabbed- even one would be a miracle but it is much more than that. And by the way Vick should still be in jail in my opinion. Thanks for writing such a passionate piece about these dogs. People shouldn't be swayed by the bias or sensationalism of the media, they should get off there asses and do something to make the world a better place, whether it be with people or animals. Thanks poetic heroics from the bottom of my heart.

[icelandicblue]

twhoops, their asses!

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

It was something I was compelled to do. I usually stay pretty quiet on this forum, but I couldn't resist but to speak up for those who have no voice.

[icelandicblue]

Yes, and my hissy fit earlier was about perceiving that I was not being heard. You taught me a lot in your piece and sometimes you just can't be quiet. I'm on the louder side I think, I'm older too so I speak my mind. These dogs and what is done to them breaks my heart. My sister has one and I have one and they are great animals. I wish I had room for more to be honest. Those with no voice will always need the voices of the strong, it is the way it should be.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thanks to both of you - you've done very well vindicating that poor dog. I appreciate it and I'm sure if the dog could speak he'd say thanks, too.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

@ice... our treatment of animals is beyond disgusting. I agree with you, anyone who commits such crimes should be punished thoroughly. I hope the day comes where we value life as life, from the worm to the soaring eagle.

[Briana O'Connor]

I love the fact the you expressed this pressing issue quite fluently. The issue of blaming the "beast" when humans are in fact that monsters is something that irritates beyond words. Thank you for sharing and keep up the good work. Please return the favor by reviewing one of my pieces.

[Blue]

I love dogs. I love the message of the poem, too. Sweet and amusing.

[Gleb Zavlanov]

I think that there is no such thing is a 'bad, feral' dog, for all dogs were created to be loyal to man. All dogs are adorable, loyal, tenacious and beautiful creatures, and I echo the love for them through this poem.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thanks for your supportive review, Gleb. I haven't been around too many dogs, but the one I describe in this poem is a real sweetheart. A very people oriented creature who has a very sweet disposition. You can't help but love her.

[Michael G. Smith]

Dogs are such loyal creatures. I want to get a border collie.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Yes, they certainly are. Thanks for reading my poem and leaving your thoughts behind, Michael.

[Clara]

Humans are the worst!

Love this adorable picture and poem, Joyce. Dogs are such wonderful, loving creatures and we are responsible for their temperament - no matter what the breed!

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thanks, Lola. I appreciate your supportive review.

[MsJewel]

My daughter was 8 years old, walking to school and a pit bull on a leash bit her in the leg - unprovoked. The woman walking the dog ran home and locked her doors, closed her blinds, hid the dog - refusing to answer the door. I know the owner had not taken the time to train her dog, but still I have been afraid of pit bulls ever since. - It is the human - not the dog.

:) Julie

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thanks for you informative review, Julie. I am so sorry that happened to your daughter and can understand your fear. I guess not all pit bulls are the same since many on the site aren't fearful of the ones they know. A bad egg can certainly put you off eggs if you happen to run into one.

[MsJewel]

I think it was the owners fault - not the dog. Lack of training, lack of caring..it is a shame because I loved dogs before this happened. I do love your poem though! Hugs, Julie

[jacob erin-cilberto]

I know several very sweet pit bulls...it's not the breed, it is the way they are raised.

I agree, when will they blame humans?

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thank you, Jacob, for your supportive review.

[lee von cleef]

Hot button,
an easy one,
people like dogs,
behave differently in packs,
Predisposed to react
to the dirt in life.
Genetic adrenaline
Will surprise the complacency in you.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thanks for reviewing my work, lee.

[Jack...]

Very nice Joyce. Dogs are very important parts of our lives and a rat terrier will bite just as quickly as a pit bull.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thank you, Jack. Your words always leave me with a smile. I hope your Christmas was a very good one.