Re: my experience with pits.....

[Nina]

Hi Wendy, I'm glad your rescue girl is in out of danger and sleeping soundly.  I do wonder about her puppies though.  Life can be so tough sometimes.  Unfortunately I have to second Karen's input on Pits. (Congratulations on placing the pos today Karen!).  You probably know me well enough to understand how it pains me to generalize about any breed, but Pits have the rep they do for a reason.  I have met plenty of of lovable ones, but they have to be well trained and adhere to a different kind of interaction than say, a Golden Retriever.  I don't specialize in aggression problems, but I've seen dogs that wag their entire bodies when they greet you, turn mighty ugly mighty fast when matched with an owner that isn't alpha enough to influence their behavior sufficiently.  Any breed of dog can have these problems, but this is a breed that is known for them.  Esp since you have no idea of her history, you'll need to stay alert and help her understand that you are capable of making decisions in order to insure everyone is safe.  Are you absolutely sure that she's Pit x and not something else?  Perhaps Boxer, or Lab?  I much prefer to see Pit Bulls placed in an 'only pet' home with no children situation.  If the vet thinks she's a Pit Bull, I would contact the Pit Bull rescue in your area and see if they are willing to help you place this girl.  It's a good sign that she's not immediately fence fighting with your other dogs, but it could just be because she's worn out and is waiting to feel out the situation.  I've also heard about Thyroid problems causing sudden aggression, I wish I could remember the details involved, you can probably Google it and find out more. She was sent to you for a reason.  Just be careful and think carefully about making a long-term commitment to her.  You may just be meant to be the "go-between" in finding her true forever home.  Good luck sweetie and thank you for helping her. Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Phaewryn and all, Well I have been doing dog and until recently pit rescue for 20 some years. I am afraid I do not agree. I had a pit from weaning till 4 1/2 years and she "turned" or developed sudden rage. A beloved indoor family fully vetted dog became a killer in 6 months. I also have a foster who was attacked by her own pit with injuries including 26 staples in her head. Also from a dog with sudden rage syndrome. Never no matter how long you have them trust a pit completely. They were born and bred to kill and that is what they do best. My pit Judas used to help me potty bottle baby kittens,. then started chewing up pups. When you get yours checked please include a test for lyme and thyroid.....another major cause of aggression in pits and other breeds of dogs. A rescued pit needs lots of training love patience and RESPECT. I  have only read a few of these emails we had petco adoptions all weekend but good luck with the pit. BY THE WAY ALL I PLACE A FIV POSITIVE CAT TODAY WHO WILL HAVE A FIV BUDDY TO HANG WITH. KAREN