Survey results

Humane Society of Harrisburg Area

PAWS-Philadelphia
1. What percentage of your dogs, on average, are pits?

80%

70% of total, but 85% of large breed
2. About what percentage were rescued from any association with dog fighting/abuse?
BOTH– 5%
3. On average, how long does a pit remain at the shelter?

1–2 years

2–3 months
4. What is the most popular reason people give for not wanting to adopt a pit bull?
Negative Media coverage, and landlords won't allow
Too big, and negative images on temperament
5. 3 words you would use to describe the majority of the pit bulls you get in?

loving, loyal, goofy

athletic, people–friendly, very versatile
6. What are the three most common mistakes people make when raising pit bull puppies, that results in the dog ending up in a shelter later on?

lack of obedience training, lack of socialization, lack of proper research on the breed

lack of obedience training, not looking into the proper housing (many landlords do not allow pit bulls), and misjudging time for owning a dog in general (exercising, socialization)
7. If you could give a small statement on why people should adopt pit bulls, what would it be?

They are the number one adoptable family dog, very loving and do better on temperament tests than other breeds. They are very active, but also can be very calm (adjust to owner's lifestyle easily).

They make wonderful companions in the right environment, people have to realize that genetics AND environment influence a dog. And they are great dogs for getting involved in multiple activities, such as obedience, agility, and even therapy dogs.

Karen

Tiffany