[beatrix]

Hello. We have a dog who is a pit mix. She is a good girl, uncropped, never been in trouble and I have no doubt will love our baby as much as we do.

I am wondering if we should include her photo in our profile for the potential birth moms to see.

To exclude her seems totally wrong to me as she is a big part of our lives. But I am afraid that the birthmother will feel the same fear as the rest of the country about these dogs, and will turn us down just because of that.

Thoughts? Thanks in advance.

[kat8eyes]

I'd say ind out what local laws regarding your dog are like, then if all is okay, include her! As you said, she's a part of your life, and who knows if your pbirthmom grew up with a dog just like her.... Of course, if the dog is a problem once baby is with you, you know you'll have to make a very tough decision; acknowledge to your sw and pbirthmom that you're aware of that!

[sak9645]

This question comes up a lot in international adoption. It is interesting to see it come up in connection with domestic adoption.

With international adoption, some agencies suggest NOT including photos with pets. Some people overseas regard animals as "too dirty" to be brought into the house, or have negative thoughts about "rich Americans" who spend money on non-farm animals, while people like them are living in difficult financial circumstances.

Other agencies, however, do not have a problem including beloved family pets in photos, as long as the homestudy report shows that the family pets are licensed, healthy, clean, and non-aggressive.

Of course, in international adoption, the birthparents don't generally choose the adoptive family. The match is made by the foreign government or by the agency, in connection with its foreign representative or an orphanage staffer.

In the U.S., on the other hand, many birthparents get to choose the family who will parent their birthchild. Since there are some birthparents who like animals and some who are afraid of them, dislike them, etc., you might be best off leaving your pet out of pictures. You could always say, in your profile, that you have a sweet dog who loves children. This would be less direct than showing the photo.

As to the fact that your dog is part pit bull, I don't have a problem with that. Every pit bull I've ever met has been a total love. It is untrue that pit bulls are genetically programmed to be dangerous, or that they have special jaws that make their bite worse. These are old wives' tales.

Any breed of dog can be dangerous, but a dog that has resulted from responsible breeding and that is well trained and socialized is likely to make a good family pet. It sounds as if you have done a great job with your dog.

However, I am fully aware that many people in the U.S. hear the term "pit bull" and freak out. They immediately think that the dog is aggressive and nasty. As a result, if your dog has a typical pit bull appearance, you might want to avoid showing her picture to prospective parents, because you might scare them. Mentioning a "friendly dog" in your profile is probably the best way to go.

Sharon

[beatrix]

That is a great response! Mentioning her without a photo allows us to be honest but removes the fear aspect.
Thanks!

[BoxerLady6]

As a dog lover and a bmom I would think was wonderful to see a pic of your doggie!! I would include a pic but maybe not mention her breed. If a bmom asks, be honest. Pit bulls are aweseome doggies!! Good choice!!

[linda512]

I also have a pit mix and she is wonderful, gentle and sweet. You can just say your dog is a mixed breed without mentioning what mix. I often tell people she is a mix and don't say of what. The truth is she was a stray and I have no real idea, but she looks like pit.
Good luck to you!

[sak9645]

Pit bulls look a lot like Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers, both breeds that are recognized by the American Kennel Club and shown at well-known dog shows, including Westminster. The breeds are definitely related.

So instead of saying pit mix, you can say, "It looks as if he might have some Staffordshire in him." You could even be right!

The first time I saw an Am. Staff -- who was being trained for a show -- I immediately assumed it was a large pit bull and expressed surprise that it could be shown. The trainer immediately explained that the dog was an Am. Staff., and that pit bulls are not yet AKC recognized.

I haven't met a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, but I've met several Am. Staffs. Like pits, they are very sweet dogs.

Go out on line and look at the two Staffordshire breeds. You may find one that looks a lot like your dog!


Sharon


Sharon

[BrandyHagz]

So instead of saying pit mix, you can say, "It looks as if he might have some Staffordshire in him." You could even be right!

Ack! No...please don't do this - don't start your relationship off with a potential lie...

If an expectant mother has a problem with the dog (regardless of breed) then it's not a good match...

I suggest, regardless of what you decide to do regarding pictures, you be VERY honest about the dynamics of your household, which includes the dog. Dog lovers will not have a problem with it...

[NaomiNJaysmom]

saying a pittbull is a Staffordshire is not a lie it is the proper name for the breed.

[BrandyHagz]

Actually, it's one of the MANY breed's of dog's recognized as a 'Pit Bull' - Not all Pit Bulls are Staffordshire's...

I guess all of those years in vet school did account for something...

Unless this Pit IS a Staffordshire, then he shouldn't be called one in the profile...as that IS a lie...

[Hopefulaz]

We have a Staffordshire bull terrier and he is the most wonderful dog that anyone could have for a child. In England where we are from, many dog charities actually recommend this type of breed for families with small children because they are so loving and are literally bomb proof when it comes to their small owners.

Since we have lived in the states with 'Eddie' we have been amazed at the positive reaction we have had to him from local children and their parents - he is probably the most loved and best known dog in the town. I am sure that your dog is of a similar nature and I can understand your frustration and worries at the possible nature of some peoples misguided fears.

All you can do is be honest, include a picture maybe with some kids with your dog, I am sure there are lots of Birth moms out there who would love such a great pal for their child.

Good Luck

[beatrix]

I love your message at the bottom! My license plate frame says, "Spay and neuter your cats and dogs". It is SO IMPORTANT!