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Pit Bull Worthy Times

A monthly digest of pit bull tender loving care. We also support fun facts and links locally and globally, sharing the most up-to-date information available! 
Those of us who are homeowners know all too well that most insurance companies DO discriminate if you own certain breeds of dogs. Luckily there are some that don't. While not all of these are created equal, here are some options for owners of pit bulls and other unfairly maligned breeds.  

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Staffordshire Bull Terriers - Lovers And Not Fighters

2/23/2021

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We are delighted to share the following article, created exclusively for our site. It was written by Joanne Speed of the website readysetpuppy.com/. This is a relatively new site, dedicated to helping prospective puppy owners and owners of new puppies to understand and properly care for their new furry friends. We hope you will enjoy this article and also check out this awesome site. You will find a wealth of information pertaining to many different types of dogs that will benefit even the most experienced dog lovers. We thank Joanne for creating this for us!
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Staffordshire Bull Terriers: Lovers and not Fighters
 
One breed that gets a lot of attention is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Over the years, it’s not always been positive. Unfortunately, this breed has been misused in parts of the world due to their natural athleticism and strength. But real ‘staffy’ owners will tell you a different story; the real story of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. They’re lovers and not fighters. Full of love and affection, they make the best family pet whether you’ve got young kids or old dogs in your household.
 
The Loving Staffy
 
Let’s be honest with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s British past. It was a breed developed for blood sports in England, involved ratting and bull-baiting. They were also used for dogfighting. But when these sports were outlawed in 1835 in the UK, the centuries that followed allowed responsible breeding to take its place. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, known lovingly as the ‘staffy’, became a family companion due to their affectionate and loving nature. This is why staffies are still one of the most popular breeds in the UK today.
 
Of course, most dogs are described as loving and devoted to their owners. They’re pack animals that love to please. But my experience with staffies is that they don’t just love their human; they adore everyone they meet. With their infamous huge smile, they crave human interaction, perhaps more than they do with other dogs. I’d go as far as to say the breed is obsessed with humans.
 
The Positives
 
When you’re looking to introduce a dog into your home, you want them to become part of your family. With such a loving personality, the Staffy is the perfect match. They’ll immediately greet everyone and make sure everyone gets a cuddle and licks. After that, you’ll have a loving dog for life. My Staffy was abandoned in the Yorkshire Moors and despite her difficult past, she’s always been affectionate towards everyone she meets. She instantly trusts everyone and can’t wait to have some fun. Instead of being protective and guarding our home, she welcomes everyone who comes through the door with a wagging tail! This can be just what you need after a long day.
 
When I take my Staffy to the local pub, she’s the talk of the town. Everyone can’t wait to see her and she loves all of the attention. She’s wagging her tail at everyone that comes in and if you make eye contact, she won’t stop until you’ve greeted her!
 
This is a breed that is a suitable companion for a family home with children. They’ve even earned the nickname, ‘nanny dog’, due to their affectionate nature. In fact, there are only three breeds mentioned by the Kennel Club that are suitable for households with young children. You’ve guessed it; the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of them. Of course, it’s essential that any dog is supervised around children. But you can enjoy peace of mind when owning this breed if you have young kids in the house. They’ll accept attention from anyone.
 
Since staffies love their owners so much, it can make them easier to train. They love to please and are eager to be taught more commands by their favorite human. Treats definitely help too! They’re loving nature makes them enthusiastic and you can introduce a training session at any time of the day; they’ll be ready.
 
The Downsides
 
Are there any downsides to the loving nature of Staffies? Well, there are certainly some things you might want to consider. Since they love their humans so much, they can become clingy. Say goodbye to ever going to the bathroom by yourself again! Some staffies can become velcro dogs; they want to be by your side all the time and they follow you everywhere. If you like your independence, this is something to consider. Since this breed is also known for being high-energy, they won’t always want to just sit beside you either. They might have a ball or rope ready for tug-of-war. If you’re busy, this can become frustrating or if you don’t have time to play.
 
Adoring humans mean that Staffies don’t like to spend much time alone. Their sociable nature means they will crave attention whenever you’re home. If you work long hours then a Staffy will miss you a lot during the day. It is possible they could become destructive if they’re bored without stimulation when you’re away. With some training and toys, this could be avoided. While some dogs relax and enjoy afternoon naps, the Staffy can be the complete opposite. They’ll want you to play and interact with them. If you’re looking for a lazy dog that becomes part of the furniture, you may want to consider another breed!
 
Another consideration is the friends and family you have. Do they like dogs? Are they comfortable with being licked and jumped on? Staffies don’t know boundaries sometimes and definitely don’t know a lot about personal space. If you hang around with someone that doesn’t like or is scared of dogs, they could find this overwhelming. Staffies adore everyone but you’ve got to remember that not everyone feels the same about our furry friends.
 
While Staffies can be easier to train because they love you, they may also need more training to understand calmness. They can jump all over you, which not everybody wants. It can be necessary to teach them some manners when around other people. This is something that can stop with training and they’ll be eager to learn. So, it shouldn’t become a problem.
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The Verdict
 
With their loving personalities, Staffies have so much to offer. They’ll become best friends with everyone they meet; I can’t go on one walk without my Staffy stopping to greet someone! Their adoration for humans makes them the perfect family companion, even if you have young kids. It’s important to make time for your Staffy; this will make sure they’re happy and content. Don’t pay attention to the history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, look forward to the future with your bright and loving companion!
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Try These Tips To Help Your Pet Age With Grace

9/30/2020

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Once again, we are delighted to welcome guest blogger Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com. 

Nick and his wife Mary had fifteen years with their dog Willie before he crossed the bridge. They have spent the past year grieving and helping others navigate the process of caring for an elderly pet. Nick and Mary have also dedicated their site to offering tips, resources and support to dog lovers everywhere.

We know you will enjoy this article and hope you will also check out ourbestdoggo.com and explore all that the site has to offer.

Thank you Nick for sharing your insights with us here.

Try These Tips to Help Your Pet Age With Grace
 
Pets age and, just like people, they experience changes with each passing year. Because of this, as your furry friends reach their seventh or eighth year, you’ll need to start thinking about ways to enhance their lives at home. From home modifications to simple changes you can make starting today, the following tips can help you and your pets enjoy their golden years.
 
Combat mobility issues.
 
If your dog has to go up and down stairs to get in and out of the house, consider buying or building a ramp. Many dogs experience mobility issues later in life. Arthritis and hip dysplasia, for example, can make it more difficult for them to navigate an 8” to 10” step. Because getting up and down off the couch or bed can be a challenge for an older pet, you can also build an adjustable ramp to help here as well. DIY Network explains that plywood, hinges, a few tools, and a long afternoon are almost all you need.
 
Consider urinary incontinence.
 
Urinary incontinence has many causes in cats and dogs alike. American Veterinary explains it can result from a congenital abnormality, among other things. Commonly, animals have less control over their bladder and bowels as they age. As a responsible and loving pet owner, you will want to get ahead of issues that might arise from bathroom accidents. One way to do this is to modify your behavior so that you can take your pet outside more often. This may not be practical, however, so consider adding a dog door, which will give them unrestricted access to their bathroom of choice: the backyard. A word of caution here is to be patient. They may have many accidents, and getting rid of the smell and discoloration can be frustrating. It’s not impossible, however, you just have to get creative and be willing to do everything from clean the carpets to replace the subfloor in areas they tend to frequent.
 
Create convenience.
 
Plan to carve out a corner of the room that your pets rest in most often so that they will have a place dedicated to their personal belongings. Their area should have a bed and any toys, blankets, or bones they enjoy. To keep things contained, have a bucket or wicker basket nearby. Make sure it is low enough so they can access their stuff when they want it. You’ll also want to invest in an elevated dog feeder. This is essentially a platform where their food and water bowls sit a few inches off the floor. This is beneficial for dogs with arthritis or animals with health conditions, such as megaesophagus.
 
Prioritize hygiene.
 
Just because your pets are getting on up in years does not mean you can let their hygiene fall to the wayside. For example, even if stiff joints and muscles make it harder for your dog to climb in and out of the bath, you still need to bathe him periodically. Fortunately, installing a dedicated dog wash station is not that expensive or difficult. If you have an extra bathroom with a standup shower, you may even be able to get away with replacing a stationary showerhead with a hand sprayer so that you can get down on your dog’s level. If you want to invest in quality equipment, there are certainly ways to save. For instance, a Chewy promo code can help you get the gear you need to keep your pet clean without soaking your bank account.
 
Manage their safety.
 
The Humane Society of the United States points out that safety concerns should also be front and center. You can do things such as add baby gates to stairways and restrict their access to areas that could pose a health hazard. Spend an afternoon looking for potential problem areas, including outdoor fire pits and swimming pools, which can be fatal to a pet that falls in and cannot escape. Make sure he also has on a collar with your contact information in the off chance he wanders away from home and can’t find his way back.
 
Keeping your pets safe and comfortable is one of the best things you can do for them as their health and physical condition deteriorates with age. The above tips are the gold standard in home modifications for aging pets, no matter how much silver is in their muzzles.
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Image via Pexels 
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How To Move With An Anxious Pet

4/13/2020

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Today we are very pleased to welcome Sarah Hollenbeck from siegemedia.com

Sarah has written an exclusive article just for us on a topic that will be of interest to all of us. The article, "How to Move With an Anxious Pet," is a comprehensive guide to helping you and your pet through what can be a very stressful situation.

Even if you have no plans to move, the article also includes signs to look for and ways to help your pet with anxiety under any circumstances.

Thank you so much Sarah for sharing this helpful information with all of us. 

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How to Move With An Anxious Pet 

When dogs are exposed to a new environment, it is often a frightening experience for them. Especially with pit bulls, separation anxiety is common and can be heightened when it comes time for you to move into a new home. Being able to recognize when your dog is in distress is important in order to ease the fear of the moving process for them. 

With time and effort, your new home can become less scary and more comfortable for you and your pet. The team at MyMove has created the ultimate guide on how to move your pet safely, with tips on how to spot (and react) if your dog is showing signs of anxiety. 
How to Spot If Your Dog Is Anxious One way to help with the moving process with an anxious pet is to monitor your dog’s behavior. If you notice that their behavior and actions have significantly changed, they might be feeling nervous or confused with their environment. A few specific examples of anxious tendencies include:

  1. Excessive Barking. Barking is a way for dogs to communicate the various emotions they might be experiencing. They might be barking out of boredom, fear, or because they are trying to seek attention. If you notice your pet is barking more than their typical amount when you move to a different house, they could be trying to get your attention or working to understand the new environment. Make sure to not yell at them, since this will stimulate them to bark more. Instead, try and use a calming yet stern tone. 
  2. Abnormal Panting. Extreme panting could be a physical sign that your dog is either ill or anxious. Giving them attention during this time can be beneficial, as well as playing calming music. However, each individual dog has their own coping mechanisms, and trying out different practices during moving time is beneficial to improve the experience for your furry friend. 
  3. Change in Energy Levels. If your dog typically is extremely active and suddenly is idle, or vice versa, this might be a sign of anxiety. They might not be comfortable with their surroundings yet, and one way to help is to consistently walk them around the house, and to make it a daily routine for them to feel more familiar with their new home.​
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How to Help Your Dog Adjust to the Move

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here are many ways to help your dog feel comfortable and adjust to the move. From natural remedies to introducing new toys, feel free to try out various options to best fit your pet. A few helpful tips to consider are listed below: 

  1. Natural Remedies. Remedies like CBD oil can help naturally ease your dog’s nerves. There are also essential oil sprays made for dogs that can make the environment feel less chaotic and more familiar. 
  2. Introduce New Toys. Giving them a distraction can be a good way to ease anxiety. With new toys, your dog can feel a sense of excitement rather than fear that they have been experiencing. It brings about a positive feeling in a situation where they don’t necessarily feel comfortable. 
Bring in a Piece of the Old Home. In order to better transition the move, bringing in a piece of your old home into the new one can make things less overwhelming. Your dog will feel more comfortable with this piece from the past, leading to them feeling less anxious about the various boxes, new couch, and overall new structure of their living space. This can be a bed, toy, or piece of furniture that they enjoyed the most from the old house.
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Although it might take some time, you and your fur baby will soon be adjusted to your new home. Testing out various options like bringing in new toys or having a piece of your old environment might help your furry friend feel more comfortable. Moving into a new home, city, or state can be a stressful time for humans too, so any way you can make it easier on your pets will help you in the long run as well
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How To Help Your Dog Adjust To A New Home

1/29/2020

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Today we are pleased to welcome Cindy Aldridge from ourdogfriends.org. This site offers many useful tips and resources for dog owners. Cindy is a freelance writer and dog lover. She started Our Dog Friends as a fun side project for herself and to educate pet owners and potential pet owners about how dogs can enrich our lives. She enjoys writing about dogs and pet ownership. Cindy has written the following article exclusively for our audience. We hope you will enjoy it and find these tips helpful should you ever need to relocate with your best friend. We also hope you will check out the site for other important information as it pertains to dogs and the people who love them. We thank Cindy for sharing this with us.
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How to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Home

Like people, dogs need time to adjust to a new place. Make your pup feel safe and protected in your new home, and ease the transition by taking a few extra steps when you move. If you take the time to help ease your pet's adjustment, your pet will adapt much more quickly and with a lot less stress.

Before the Move

Before bringing your dog inside the new home, put out his food and water bowls. Pick a permanent spot for his bed and put his favorite toys nearby. The dog will get the message that this is his space. It won't hurt to put a few treats near his eating and sleeping areas as well, so he will immediately associate positive feelings with these new spaces.

Don't forget to pet-proof your new place. Search around for any cords, debris, or nails sticking out in the carpet and baseboard areas. 

Making the Move

When you're moving your dog into a new home, make the move during the day. Dogs naturally feel more fearful at night, according to the American Kennel Club. If possible, move your dog during a bright day so he feels secure. As soon as possible, take him out to go explore the new yard. Let your dog lead you as he sniffs and explores. This will help him start to feel more comfortable more quickly with his new territory. 

Most importantly, don't rush your dog. Let him set the pace and explore new surroundings in his own time. If your dog would rather sleep than explore, let him sleep. He will go exploring the new home on his own, so don't try to speed up the process.

After the Move

Keep your dog's schedule as normal as possible. Maintain the same feeding times and walking times so he won't have to adjust to lots of new changes. Try to keep the house as quiet and calm as possible. According to PetFinder, too much excitement in a new place can make it harder for your dog to adjust.

Spend extra time with your dog after the move, so he knows that you are still a constant in his life. Talk out loud to your dog so he can hear the comforting sound of your voice and spend time petting and playing with him. This will help your pet begin to feel more relaxed.

If possible, don't leave your dog alone in the new house for too long in the first week. Being alone in a new place will increase your pet's anxiety. Spend as much time as you can with your dog and begin leaving the house gradually. Go away for less than an hour the first time, and then spend a little more time out of the house every day. 

Adapting Your Space

There’s a lot you can do to make your dog feel more relaxed and secure, but don't forget to take steps that will actually make your dog safer. Get new tags (which you can purchase for under $7.00) with your new information on them, and make sure your dog has them before you move.

Consider installing a fence around your property if there isn’t one already in place. According to HomeAdvisor, the average national price to install a new wood fence is $2,751.00. If you want to add a gate, you’ll likely spend an additional $200.00 - $600.00, depending on the materials and scope of the project. A fence will not only make your dog more comfortable, it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your pet is protected and safe. A new neighborhood comes with other dogs and wildlife, stray animals, children, and potential threats to your animal’s well-being.

Protecting Your Pet

Take the steps to make your dog feel protected and safe during a hectic time. Give your dog the attention he needs and deserves during a move that’s stressful for the both of you. With a little extra care, your dog will adapt to his new environment and be safe, healthy, and happy in your home -- just as you want him to be.


Photo credit: Pexels.com


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How To Make Your Dog Look Like A Superstar On Instagram

12/17/2019

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 We all love our dogs and we also love our social media. And who doesn't like to look at cute dog pictures on Instagram?

Today we have an exclusive article written by Ryan Goodchild of pupperslove.com to help us make our dogs look their very best when we post their pictures on Instagram.

If you have not yet checked out Ryan's site, you are truly missing out as pupperslove.com is a very cool site offering inspiring stories about our best friends. There will soon be a book available as well, so please be sure and follow the website for the latest updates.

We hope you will enjoy this article and check out the many internet resources available to help make your dog a superstar on Instagram.

We thank you Ryan and look forward to your upcoming book.

How to Make Your Dog Look Like a Superstar on Instagram
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Photo: Pexels
 
Doting dog parents don’t have Instagram feeds full of selfies. Instead, they have endless photos of their beloved barker!

While we think every little thing our dogs do is adorable, we also know that not every snap we take of them is worthy of posting on social media. After all, it’s sometimes impossible to get Fido to sit still long enough for us to capture that aww-worthy pose, and even Instagram’s best filters can’t always remedy a poor lighting situation.

​If this sounds familiar, we’ve rounded up some of the best advice on how to take the absolute sweetest dog photos that will make your dog look like a bone-afide Instagram celebrity.
 
Get Your Dog to Pose for the Camera Like a Model

Want to Get Your Dog to Look at the Camera? Here’s How

Easy Tricks to Teach Your Dog  … for Cute Photos

How to Take Better Action Photos of Dogs

Pro Tips to Capture the Best Pictures of Your Pets

How to Make Your Dog/Puppy Sit Still for a Photo

How to Get the Best Lighting for Smartphone Photos

Tips for Taking Low-Light Photos with Your Smartphone 

Which iPhone Should I Choose?

How to Choose the Best Android Phone

iPhone Photography 101: Quick Tips to Take Better iPhone Photos

Use AR Stickers on Google Pixel to Add Extra Flair to Your Snaps

10 Tips for Smartphone Photo Editing

How to Grow Your Dog’s Instagram Followers


All of us dog moms and dads think we have the world’s most precious pup — and we’re all right! Do your pooch justice by using these tips to help him shine on Instagram.

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Tips For Tackling Pet Messes

12/3/2019

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We are pleased to welcome once again, guest blogger Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com. Nick and his wife Mary have created their site to provide resources and support for dog owners. If you have not yet checked it out, please do. It offers a wealth of information and it is clearly a labor of love.

Today Nick touches on a topic that all pet owners can relate to  - tips for tackling pet messes with minimal stress and maximum savings. We know you will enjoy the article and we thank Nick for writing this article exclusively for us here at loyalpitbulllove.com
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4 Tips for Tackling Pet Messes With Minimal Stress and Maximum Savings 

Do you struggle with keeping your dog-friendly home tidy without spending a lot of money? It turns out that cleaning up after your pup can be more affordable and less stressful when you have a few tricks up your sleeve. So to help you out, here are a few low-cost, low-effort tips for tackling and preventing some of the most common and stressful dog-related messes in your home. 

Obliterate Dog Odors by Using The Right Cleaners 

Does your pup have problems with body odor? That smell can be endearing when you’re a dog mom or dad, but when pet smells become overwhelming, it may be time for a deep cleaning with some odor-eliminating products. If you’re battling urine smells, an enzymatic cleaner is your best bet for breaking up those odors. You could also call in a professional carpet cleaning service to tackle those tough pet odors, although this can be a more costly way to get your carpets and fabrics clean. For other pet smells and messes, using vinegar and baking soda will usually do the trick by actually removing pet smells, instead of just covering them up. Used separately or together, these inexpensive ingredients are handy to keep around your home. 

Tackle Stuck-On Saliva With a Few Low-Cost Tools 

When your pups like to give extra love to your home’s surfaces in the form of kisses and nose prints, it can be pretty adorable. However, all of those saliva stains and drool marks can add up over time and cause your home to look a bit grimey. So if your pup has left a mark on windows or mirrors, a few inexpensive tools are all you need to clean them off. Vinegar and baking soda come to the rescue again to clean stubborn lick marks off those shiny surfaces, but you should also pick up a good squeegee and a soft sponge. You can find coupons online that will help you save on these essentials. When those window kisses seem obsessive, you may also want to do some homework to figure out why. Compulsive licking can be a sign of untreated pain or other health/behavior issues in dogs, so it’s a good idea to rule potential problems out for your pup. 

Fight Neverending Fur Battles With Simple Tricks  

Are fur and dander a normal part of your home life? Well, you can start solving your shedding issues by sticking to appropriate grooming schedules for your dog. Aside from helping to keep your home much cleaner, regular grooming also allows you to spot issues with your dog’s fur and skin, prevent fleas or ticks from getting out of hand, and keep ears, teeth, and paws healthy. For maximum effectiveness, be sure to brush your dog’s fur frequently and brush those chompers regularly as well (this will prevent bad breath, too). For any leftover fur or dander that finds its way into your carpet or fabrics, invest in an affordable vacuum designed for pet hair and also invest in a stockpile of lint rollers. These tools can be a lifesaver when your dog sheds a lot. 

Avoid Big Pet Messes With Proper Dog Training 

Frequent grooming and health check-ups can be vital for preventing recurrent messes from compulsive licking or excessive shedding, but providing your pup with proper training can also reduce your need to clean. If you just adopted your dog, for example, you may need to work on potty training to avoid having constant stains and odors from ruining your floors. Separation anxiety is another common behavioral issue that can have consequences for your home and furniture. Preventing destructive behavior linked to anxiety takes patience and time, but curbing these unwanted behaviors is the easiest way to keep your home clean, your dog happy, and to save your sanity from constantly cleaning up big messes or buying extra cleaning supplies. 

Stop letting dog messes get you and your budget down! Cleaning up after your furkids doesn’t have to take a lot of time and money. It just takes having the right cleaning tips and tricks to tackle stains, fur, and odors without all of the hassle. 

Photo Credit: Unsplash
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Thankful

11/21/2019

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Thanksgiving is a week away.

The kids have moved across the country. Both have gotten married and have begun their own traditions. Close family members and friends have either passed away or made plans of their own. What used to be my favorite holiday now feels like just another day.

This year there will be the traditional meal but no dinner guests to share it with us. As the holiday approaches, I have been feeling a bit down. Then I started thinking about the true meaning of Thanksgiving – at least the true meaning as I see it and I have come to the conclusion that really, it is all in how you look at it.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on all that we have and all that there is to be thankful for, and for me there is a lot.

I am thankful for my family and friends, even though I cannot be with everyone I would like to be with on Thanksgiving Day.

I am thankful that I am physically and financially able to travel and visit loved ones several times a year.

I am thankful to have a home, food, good health and people who love me.

I am thankful that I have found a purpose in life – helping homeless animals find the loving families they deserve.

And I am thankful for my own pets. They bring us great joy and I am thankful they chose us to be their family.
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 Especially, I am thankful that Mickey, who was diagnosed with cancer almost 16 months ago and given about a year to live is still enjoying a good quality of life and is with us to celebrate another Thanksgiving.
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​Thanksgiving may look a little different this year and it may feel a little different this year but it is still Thanksgiving and I am still thankful.
 
From our family to yours, we wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving, filled with food, family and many blessings. 
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Filmmaker Jon Mancinetti Is Back With A New Project

10/10/2019

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He’s baaaaaack!!!!! We here at loyalpitbulllove.com are excited to announce the return of our friend, award winning filmmaker and pit bull advocate Jon Mancinetti who is currently planning his next big project, Super Bois. Super Bois is a comedic, autobiographical story about Jon, his developmentally disabled brother, Joel and his rescue dog, Smokey.

Mancinetti’s last project, Loss and Found was a funny and very poignant short film about his own experiences as a rescuer and foster dad for a number of shelter pit bulls who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to experience loving homes and families. We were fortunate to be among the first to learn about this film. We first had the opportunity to discuss the film with Mancinetti on this page prior to its inception and also reviewed Loss and Found here last year.

In case you are not aware, statistics show that only one in 600 shelter pit bulls makes it out alive and over one million are killed in shelters each year. Mancinetti’s mission, like ours here, is to educate people about these very loyal, loving and misunderstood dogs with the ultimate goal of seeing them find their way out of shelters and into loving homes.

Loss and Found was featured in many film festivals, won numerous awards, was shown in more than 40 cities worldwide and raised over $50,000 for local shelters and rescues. Along the way, Mancinetti was even able to rescue, foster and find a home for a Memphis shelter dog who was slated for euthanasia. He is hoping for even greater success with Super Bois, which strives to educate the public about both disabled individuals and shelter dogs and how they can positively impact all of us.

Growing up in Cleveland Ohio, Jon and his brothers Jeff and Joel enjoyed making super hero movies together, using their parents’ VHS camera. Not only did this influence his career as an adult, but it also created a powerful bond between Jon and his brothers, Joel in particular. Over the years, he and Joel have grown even closer and Jon’s passion for educating and raising awareness has grown right along with it.

Mancinetti already has big plans for Super Bois. In addition to entering the film in various film festivals, he has already reached out to a number of schools and animal rescue organizations and is making arrangements to show the film in cities around the world.

If you would like to help Jon on his mission, please check out his Kickstarter campaign and donate if you are able. There are many sponsorship opportunities and other incentives for donors so let’s do this! Let’s help Jon continue his mission to help others by supporting Super Bois. We can’t wait to see the finished product!
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How To Make Moving Stress-Free For Your Dog

8/28/2019

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Once again we are pleased to welcome guest blogger, Nick Burton from ourbestdoggo.com. This site, developed by Nick and his wife, offers many great tips, resources and support for pet owners so be sure to check it out.

For anyone who has ever moved (and who hasn't) we all know how stressful it can be, not only for us but for our pets as well. This article offers some great tips to make your next move easier and less stressful for all involved.
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How to Make Moving Stress-Free for Your Dog
 
Moving can make the staunchest of hearts fill with anxiety, but for our canine companions, being uprooted can be particularly stressful.  A little extra consideration can help your furry friend through the transition.  Here are some clever tips for easing your dog through the process so you’ll both feel right at home before you know it.
 
Choose a great location
 
One of the best ways to help your furry friend through this life-changing event is to select your new home with his needs in mind.  For instance, before committing to a new house, make sure it’s in a dog-friendly location.  Familiarize yourself with the zoning regulations and animal control laws in the area. Check whether specific certificates or vaccinations are necessary and make sure you have them beforehand.
 
Also think about the specific neighborhoods you’re considering.  If you and your dog go for walks, heavy traffic can be an issue, and some communities and homeowners associations have their own restrictions for pet owners.  You might prefer an area with sidewalks; if getting out and about with your dog is something you’re looking forward to, an area close to dog parks can be a boon. 
 
Keep your dog in mind when looking at specific properties as well.  For instance, a fenced yard is a must-have for a dog that tends to roam or needs room for exercise, while some dogs might be fine with smaller spaces.  That being said, don’t discount a house that works if it lacks a fence. You can always have one installed, and depending on the materials, it might not cost too much. For example, Hartford homeowners spend an average of $2,418 to have a fence installed.
 
It really helps when house hunting to be familiar with your dog’s breed tendencies, and to make choices that will keep him safe and secure. 
 
Making the move
 
The logistics of a move can be one of the most challenging parts of this entire process. And while it's easy to call upon friends and family on moving day, you're going to have a harder time if you're moving out of state to a new community with no contacts. In that case, it might be in your best interest financially to consider a hybrid move where you use a moving company to load a truck, a separate company to move your items, and then a different moving company once you reach your destination. Not only will this save you some headaches, but it allows you to spend more time with your pup before you leave and after you arrive at your final destination. Make sure to read reviews to find the highest-rated moving companies in your area.
 
When it’s time for the big event, it’s also important to keep your dog out of the pathway of movers, so consider having a friend watch him for the day, hiring a pet sitter, or boarding him (the cost of boarding averages $25 - $45 a night).  Getting away from the hubbub can reduce his stress as well as keep him safe.  Also make sure you stick to the usual routine, and pack your dog’s things last.  When you get to the new place, unpack his things first, and set them up in a similar location to where they were in the old house. 
 
If you have a dog who doesn’t travel well, one way to help your dog is to talk with your vet before the move.  The vet can recommend options for managing your pooch’s behavior and might prescribe something for anxiety.  Another idea is to try an over-the-counter anxiety medication.  If you’re moving out of the area, your vet might have suggestions for finding a new veterinarian as well. 
 
When it comes to actual travel, your safest bet is for Fido to go in a crate or carrier.  If you haven’t used one before, buy an appropriately sized crate before moving day, and help your dog become accustomed to it beforehand.  Choose a crate that is travel-friendly as well.  For instance, some crates have wheels to get your pooch through airports more easily, and some allow you to top-load your dog.  As far as accommodations, Pet Travel recommends outfitting the crate with a comfy pad and bowls for the journey.  You can freeze water the night before in a bowl that attaches inside the crate so it won’t drip or spill.  Also consider adding something that smells like you if you and your dog will be separated at all, like a worn T-shirt.  Test drive the new crate at home and then make some short trips before trying longer journeys. 
 
When you reach your destination, spend a little time introducing your dog to the new surroundings.  Unpack your dog’s belongings right away, dog-proof the new house, and let your pup sniff around the new house and neighborhood while you walk with him.  Keep a leash on for the initial perusal, making it easier to correct any unwanted behaviors.
 
Throughout the process of moving, your dog is depending on you to make choices on his behalf.  Select the new home carefully, and make preparations to transition smoothly.  Keep his needs and comfort in mind throughout the process, and you and your furry friend will be settled in quickly. 

                                                                                 ******
We hope you have enjoyed this article and please visit Nick's site, ourbestdoggo.com for more great articles, tips and information for you and your pet.

Thank you Nick! 
 
Photo Credit: Pexels



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Show Us Your Pit Bull Is Not A Threat To Home Insurers

8/1/2019

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Today we offer yet another insightful article written by guest blogger Katie Tu. Katie is the Content Specialist for QuoteWizard by LendingTree, LLC and has written a very important article for pit bull owners and also owners of other dog breeds that are often considered dangerous by the insurance industry. It offers tips on where to look for homeowner's insurance as well as what you can do to protect yourself and your dog.

We hope you will enjoy the article and we thank you Katie for sharing this with us.

Show Your Pit Bull's Not a Threat to Home Insurers

Your homeowners insurance policy is available to help protect you from damages and liabilities in or around your home. This can include theft, fires, lightning, and dog bites. You may have heard this, but some insurance providers may deny coverage or raise your rates depending on your dog breed.
 
While we understand that any dog breed is capable of biting under the right circumstances, larger breeds like pit bulls typically have the capacity to cause more damage, therefore they are a bigger liability.
Insurers that allow pit bullsFortunately, there are a few insurers that offer pit bull friendly policies. Note that coverage can vary depending on the case and if you’re in Michigan or Pennsylvania, the legislation prohibits denying coverage based on the breed alone.

  • State Farm does not require you to disclose your dog’s breed nor do they have breed restrictions. They will consider your coverage on a case-by-case basis and consider your pet’s history.
  • Allstate also has a similar policy to State Farm, but coverage is subject to change if your pet attacks or causes damage.
  • USAA can help cover your pit bull if it has a proven track of good behavior. However, this company only serves US military veterans and their families.
 
Be sure to also shop around with other carriers to compare and find the best rate for you and your pit bull.
How to show that my pit bull is good?Your current home insurance policy might be able to work with you on coverage and price if you can demonstrate that your pit bull has good behavior. Here are some suggestions on what you can do to show your beloved pit bull is obedient and safe:

  • Spay or neuter your pit bull. There has been evidence that neutering your pit bill can help decrease aggression (those that are influenced by hormone). It can also help with population control and continuing to pass aggressive behavior to offsprings.
  • Ensure your dog is properly socialized and leash trained. Socializing your pet will lower the probability of it feeling threatened by other people or dogs.
  • Enroll your pit bull in a training class. Get to know you canine and understand it’s stressors and how to work on it or avoid them. This takes time, energy, and work, but can help minimize liabilities.
  • Earn the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate from the American Kennel Club. This is the gold standard of behavior for dogs where you go through a series of tests with your dog to show their obedience.
 
If you’re still having some trouble with liability coverage with your home insurance, consider an umbrella policy of canine liability insurance. An umbrella policy is a supplemental insurance policy that extends your maximum, payout and filling in any coverage gaps. Canine liability insurance is a standalone policy, so you don’t need an existing home or renters policy to have it. It has a wide array of liability coverages related to your pit bull.
 
As with any pet, you should be a responsible owner and ensure that your pit bull is happy and can be safe around people. Recognize any potential threats with children and adults and always keep an eye on your companion.

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    About the Author

    Sue Torres is an animal advocate, rescue volunteer and proud owner of a previously abused pit bull who was slated to be destroyed for being tense and fearful in the shelter environment.

    Inspired by their resilience, devotion and ability to forgive, she now devotes herself to restoring the image of these once-esteemed and cherished family pets. She works tirelessly to promote the adoption of pit bulls in our nation's shelters and change perceptions about this extremely misunderstood and unjustly maligned breed.

    She lives in Connecticut with her rescued pit bull, Mickey. Her first book, Loyalty Unleashed was published in May, 2014 and is avsailable in paperback and e-book formats. Loyalty Unleashed II (her second book) is now available, also in paperback and e-book formats.

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