For a Pit Bull lover, it is devastating to hear of abandonment, abuse, and outright prejudice against sweet Pibbles. While Pit Bull laws and bans are popping up around the country, many would be surprised to hear that Pit Bulls are still one of the top breeds being bred in America. As Pibble birth rates increase, so does the rate of Pit Bull euthanasia as shelters and rescues are reaching full capacity. A simple solution could be the key to reducing these numbers for good.

“studies estimate that up to 1 million pits are euthanized per year, or 2,800 per day…[and] some estimates are up to double that number.”

Save-a-Bull Rescue

There are 3 to 5 million Pit Bulls in the United States and shelters around the country are overwhelmed with lack of space and money to fund their care. The Humane Society of Harford County in Maryland, is just one of many waiving adoption fees in an effort to encourage adoption. Despite efforts by adoption advocates and rescues, adoption alone is not enough to end the sky rocketing rates of Pit Bull euthanasia. 

In order to reduce the amount of Pit Bulls being put down, it is imperative to look at the root of the cause. Overpopulation. Save-a-Bull equates current practices of simply pushing adoption to “putting a band-aid on a gushing wound,” as the key to reducing Pit Bull deaths is to slow their reproduction. The organization shares that simple math can exemplify that a single dog’s two litters of pups per year could produce nearly 67,000 dogs in a 6 year reproductive lifespan. 

Therefore, until Pit Bulls spay and neuter rates increase, the rates of Pit Bulls put to sleep will continue to soar. The costs of sterilization may hinder owners from the procedures, but so does misinformation. The American Veterinary Medical Association supports spay and neuter procedures as it helps prevent unwanted litters, protects against health problems, and reduces behavioral problems associated with the mating instincts. 

Like any procedures, there are risks involved, but sterilization has a very low incidence of complications. A Veterinarian should be consulted before the procedure takes place. Nonprofits like Kennel to Couch Support Pit Bull rescue and partner with organizations such as Banfield Pet Hospital to provide a free pet exam and consultation with a Banfield veterinarian.

“A study by the organization Animal People reports a 93% euthanasia rate for pit bulls and only one in 600 pits finding a forever home.”

Save-a-Bull

The above is an unfortunate statistic, but there will always be a Pit Bull in your local shelter waiting to be taken in to a loving and caring home. Sponsor a Pit Bull today so they can thrive and be fully supported with their own Pitty Package. A little help goes a long way, and you can help make a difference.
Source: https://saveabullmn.org/pit-bulls-and-euthanasia-rates/