From July 1 to August 15, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay and the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center will spay/neuter 500 owned bully breed dogs and other mixes through Operation Pit Stop. Dogs will also receive DHPP and rabies vaccinations, a county license, a microchip, and a bag of dog food courtesy. Interested dog owners should call now to make an appointment.
Why the need for Operation Pit Stop?
Hillsborough County has seen an increase of bully breed dogs coming through shelter doors. These dogs spend more time in the shelter before people eventually adopt them. This crisis affects kennel space. HSTB is a managed admission shelter known as “No-Kill for Space”. This means they do not euthanize to make room for other animals. Spaying and neutering bully breeds will help reduce the population of unwanted dogs that will end up in shelter care.
Related: AKC Lists Most Popular Dog Breeds
Owners can call the Humane Society of Tampa Bay or the Pet Resource Center to schedule their appointment. Each location will be doing up to 250 surgeries. Owners of dogs sterilized through Operation Pit Stop will be entered to win cash prizes. The Humane Society will choose five winners and awarded $1,000 each.
“We are happy to provide these surgeries to keep dogs healthy and reduce the number of dogs in our kennels,” said Sherry Silk, Chief Executive Officer of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
What are bully breeds?
Bully breed dogs, also known as pit bulls, have been the subject of much controversy and misinformation. It is important to understand that “bully breed” is not a specific breed but rather a term used to describe a group of breeds that share similar physical characteristics. These breeds include:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
Unfortunately, people stigmatize bully breeds due to their history in dogfighting and irresponsible ownership. However, it is essential to note that a dog’s behavior is primarily shaped by its upbringing, training, and environment. Bully breed dogs, when raised in loving, responsible homes, can be incredibly loyal, affectionate, and gentle companions. They have the potential to be wonderful family pets, therapy dogs, and even working dogs.
Like any other breed, we should judge bully breed as individuals. We should not automatically label them based on their appearance. Responsible ownership, proper socialization, and positive reinforcement training are key factors in raising well-behaved bully breed dogs, just as they are with any other breed.
Schedule an appointment at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay located at 3809 N. Armenia, call (813) 252-2023 and to schedule an appointment at the Pet Resource Center located at 440 N. Falkenburg Rd. call (813) 301-7387.
