Summary of Pit Crew Program with SLCoAS:
In the Spring of 2009, SLCo Animal Services (SLCoAS) partnered with Best Friends Animal Society to develop a program focusing on pit bull type dogs that would ultimately increase the number of adoptions of the "short haired muscular mutts" in our shelter system. Pit bull type dogs, often make up a disproportionate number of shelter residents, and they often face many misconceptions and stigma in our community. In order to change perceptions, increase responsible ownership, and help many more of these wonderful family pets find loving, permanent homes, this program was developed.
There are several key components to make this program unique and successful: a free spay and neuter program for pit bull type dogs in Salt Lake County Animal Services jurisdiction, low cost or free Canine Good Citizen classes at the shelter (free with adoption or foster), a reliable and experienced foster parent network, special adoption and other special event, and of course our dedicated volunteers that help with enrichment for the dogs at the shelter and at our events. Through outreach programs, breed education, and positive media coverage of sponsored events, we hope to transform the image of the pit bull type dogs in our community. Our Fosters and program dogs will help promote responsible ownership and be a positive presence in the community.
The network of volunteers and Foster Parents is key to the success of the Salt Lake County Bully Breed Program. Becoming involved with this program not only save lives, but will greatly increase the adoptability of the dogs in the program; with our shared commitment, the program is designed to help these dogs become well socialized, model canine citizens and provides the tools necessary to facilitate a smooth transition into their permanent, forever home.
Each month, we have special events and presentations, from a Pittie Pumpkin shelter dog Halloween costume contest, to dynamic presentations like the upcoming presentation by Intermountain Therapy Animals on how we can engage more rescued and adopted pit bull type dogs and their families continue on from CGC to doing therapy work in our communities. We are also planning to increase the number and frequency of our adoption events to help rotate more and more ambassador dogs through this exciting program.
Find us on the web:
http://www.slcoanimalservices.org/
http://www.facebook.com/slcopitcrew?v=wall&ref=mf
http://slcopitcrew.posterous.com/ <http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fslcopitcrew.posterous.com%2F&h=7db280b7e8603a90358588a6c7c64b75>
http://twitter.com/slcopitcrew <http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fslcopitcrew&h=7db280b7e8603a90358588a6c7c64b75>
http://www.flickr.com/groups/slcopitcrew/
And of course, become a fan of the Pit Bulls: Saving America's Dog Campaign:
Posted
Aug 24 2009, 04:15 PM
by
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