The Importance of the Barn Project

Recently, within a span of 6 days, my own pit bulls and a neighbor's pit bull have been the targets of prejudiced and undeserved comments. Shocking to me as in all of the almost 8 years we've lived in this quiet, sleepy East Bay suburb, I recall one similar incident. I honestly thought our neighbors were pretty enlightened about the evils of breed prejudice.

Unfortunately, some people have yet to see the light, probably because they've closed up their minds pretty tightly when it comes to seeing the overwhelming positive results of dogs being judged as individuals and not on where they came from or their body type.

When people make comments like these under their breath: "How could you own a pit bull?" or "Please walk your pit bull on the other side of the path so he doesn't get too close to my dogs," or "Keep your pit bulls off my grass," it's pretty evident there is still work to be done. That's where the Barn Project and its residents come in. Especially for dogs like Star and Chunk who came from dog fighting operations, people still need convincing it's what on the inside that matters.

The Barn Crew and the barn residents will continue to work their hardest to dispel myths, educate the misinformed, and fight prejudice, to remind people individuals need to be treated as individuals. This includes all of the barn residents, current and former, my own girl, and pit bulls everywhere.

Hopefully, people will let go of their unfounded fears and not recoil when they see me and my girl (who literally proved she wouldn't hurt a fly in a nose work class) walking in our neighborhood, or when any other pit bull owner happens to be out enjoying one of life's simple pleasures that all other dog owners are able to enjoy.

When life hands you lemons.... blog about it; then go hug your dog.

photo of catherine's pal Tulip