Out of the Pits is a not for profit organization that was founded in 1994. We seek to educate the public about the true nature of the American Pit Bull Terrier and to make them aware that they used to be one of America’s favorite breed of dogs. Our efforts are aimed at restoring the breed to its former position of esteem in the hearts and minds of people everywhere.
The organization generally has a wide variety of dogs available for adoption. The adoption page is updated regularly so check back often if you don’t see a dog that fits your needs.
Programs
Media Coverage
Promoting positive media coverage is perhaps our top priority. We encourage stories which present the Pit Bull in a positive light to offset the attack stories (almost always involving cruelly abused dogs) which have filled the public with unwarranted fear of this victimized breed.
Elementary & Secondary School Workshops
Out of the Pits has pioneered a series of highly successful in-school awareness programs that teach pet care and humane treatment of animals, using Pit Bulls as models.
Public Education Clinics
Public education clinics in pet shops, shopping centers, fairs, dog walks-anywhere the public gathers. At these clinics, visitors can see titled obedience and agility Pit Bulls perform, get literature describing the history and true nature of the American Pit Bull Terrier, and learn about the adoption experience from families who have adopted dogs from Out of the Pits or from local shelters. Visitors interested in saving a dog can look over pictures and descriptions of Pit Bulls waiting for homes.
Therapy Dog Programs
Members now have 14 Certified Therapy Dogs, with more in training. These dogs have been visiting nursing homes, hospitals and rehabilitation centers for several years. Their arrival is always eagerly awaited and patients are especially delighted with the dogs’ inherently affectionate natures.
Spay-Neuter Program
Sadly, Out of the Pits receives approximately 1,000 requests per week to take unwanted Pit Bulls. Shelter statistics are equally staggering – it is estimated that more than 80% of Pit Bulls in shelters are euthanized, and typically only 1 in 600 Pit Bulls finds a loving home. Although Out of the Pits had been helping owners spay and neuter their Pit Bulls for many years on an informal basis, a few years ago we launched an official “Fix-A-Bull” spay-neuter program.