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.

[Rita L. Sev]

I have known some sweet pit bulls, too. Dogs are never the problem... A great illustration of the gentle nature of these dogs, Joyce.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thank you, Rita. I was scared to death to meet that dog and was quickly won over by her very sweet nature. Talk about submissive - she never tries to dominate. Shows what love will do for a dog as well as for a person. I really appreciate your very kind review.

[Praveeta]

So cute. Dogs are adorable and need love and care like humans.

[Joyce S. Greene]

How true, Praveeta. Chloe is a very submissive, sweet dog. She has been dearly cherished and reciprocates in kind. Those dogs that are brutalized, will be brutal back. What else could you expect? Thanks for your very kind review.

[Praveeta]

You are welcome.

[Scott Metro]

Hah...we live in a world that cannot accept the blame for ANYTHING !!!
Dogs need love....
I should write a poem and blame all my troubles on everybody else..make it long..escape all blame for everything...LOL
Scott

[Joyce S. Greene]

My son's girlfriend was telling us about pit bull farms after our Christmas dinner, and the owners of those farms systematically torture those poor dogs. A sin, for sure. I appreciate your very sage review, Scott. You are a very good friend.

[Scott Metro]

My pleasure Joyce....and thanks for taking time out to read it.
Scott

[Sami Khalil]

Wow. This was so true and cute at the same time. I love the message within. I like Cesar Milan and his show...Bravo...:).................

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thank you, Sami. Is there any subject you're not conversant in? Your breadth of knowledge is astounding. I really appreciate your very intelligent and kind reviews.

[Sami Khalil]

Wow. Thank you kindly...You are welcome...:)................

[Lyn Anderson]

Okay, I will forgive you Cesar Millan's renown - much in dispute in the veterinary and animal training community - he is a celeb, and the sentiment is just - your poem is right on the mark and on point.

[Joyce S. Greene]

Thanks, KL. One of Merriam-Webster's Thesaurus' synonyms for "renown" is notoriety so I guess that word can work both ways. I found the quote and used it after Googling Millan's name. Sounded like he was well-known and I wasn't aware of the controversy. Sorry about that. But I'm glad you agree with the sentiment. Chloe is the most submissive, sweet dog you'd want to meet. Thanks for your very nice review.