We need to change the image of pit bulls

From the first day Emmett — a pit bull and Plott Hound mix — came to live with Maggie Marton, she searched for a therapy-dog training program. &ldquo-Most facilities that did training weren&rsquo-t insured for Pit Bulls,&rdquo- she says.

Maggie finally found a program at the Monroe County Humane Association in Indiana. Since graduating, Emmett visits children at libraries, schools and a mental health facility for children. &ldquo-He performs wonderfully in all three situations,&rdquo- says Maggie, &ldquo-but he really shines at the mental health facility.”

The first day there, Maggie noticed a quiet little boy sitting with his arms wrapped around his knees, peering out at her suspiciously. &ldquo-While most of the kids elbow to be the first one to play with Emmett, he sat quietly in his spot,&rdquo- says Maggie. &ldquo-After a few visits, he still hadn&rsquo-t asked for a turn. So as we went around the circle I asked, &lsquo-Would you like a turn walking Emmett?&rsquo- He smiled and said &lsquo-Yes, please&rsquo- so softly that I barely heard him.”

&ldquo-We&rsquo-ve been visiting for several months, and a few weeks ago we had to miss our visit while Emmett had surgery,&rdquo- she says. &ldquo-The next time we came in, this quiet little boy dashed over and said, &lsquo-I missed you, Emmett!&rsquo- He wrapped his arms around him and Emmett gave him a big kiss.”

Despite Emmett&rsquo-s winning personality, he encounters a lot of people who have negative ideas about pit bulls and pit bull mixes. &ldquo-When people ask me if he&rsquo-s a pit bull,&rdquo- says Maggie, &ldquo-I tell them that pit bull is actually a generic term, and that Emmett is an American Staffordshire terrier mix. I always add that he&rsquo-s a very friendly therapy dog.”

Michele C. Hollow is a journalist and author who specializes in writing about animal welfare. Her blog, Pet News and Views, covers pet care, wildlife, and people who work with and on the behalf of animals.