by Pitcrew » August 13th, 2006, 4:52 pm
Hey guys... I just want to keep you up to date...
We are counting down now, less than 3 weeks! There is a topic that I would like to clarify, that even myself had not taken into complete consideration until a recent incident brought to my attention caused me to reconsider what I have told people.
A couple of people have emailed me and asked if they kept their dogs with them, on leash (obviously), would they need to crate their dog?
When we originally recommended the crating rule, I was thinking about it for the dogs safety... no tie outs... no leaving dogs in a car... etc.
I have forgotten that this is expected to be a large event. Hopefully the first of many, I would expect to double (or triple) attendance in the future if it goes even remotely as we hope. I also forgot this is to expose and educate people who may not be as experienced or dog savvy with our breed, as others of us. It is all of our responsibility to learn and educate the newbies and those who don't know our breed.
It seems simple... even obvious... to keep our dogs, no matter how friendly, or non dog aggressive, away from others because theirs may not be. I attend large dog events all year. Shows with anywhere from 200 to 2000+ dogs in attendance. At these events dogs who are not entered aren't allowed to attend.
We don't want to make this rule.
Because we want you to be able to try different things and enjoy the event with your dog, and we are allowing day-of entries, we will allow non entered dogs to attend.
At a show or trial of any kind, a dog pulling (or even walking nicely) at the end of a 6 foot leash, is NOT what we consider under control, in this, or any kind of crowd. Many people think because their dog is "with" them or on leash that they are under control enough.
I must remind people frequently what "control" is. And I don't care that it is the 'other' dog who snarked at them. We want to avoid ANY incidents. No matter whose fault or how minor.
There WILL be media at the event. We must set the example. If we want the public to give our dogs a fair shake, there are NO excuses.
You must also realize there will be all types, there may be people who may be less than responsible, there to make trouble (or headlines), or just someone naive enough to do so accidentally.
The rule for crating when not waiting to compete is not just a recommendation for your dogs safety, and relaxation (dog shows can be stressful and tiring for most dogs) but for their protection (and yours).
It might be nice to relax and have your dog with you all day the way you would go to a park or other dog friendly place. But remember, you may be too distracted watching the many events going on all day to give proper attention to the other end of your leash at every moment. As well as the fact a dog not properly socialized to this type of event could be very distracting to the dogs competing if they are too close to the ring.
So keep in mind you can be much closer and have a better view of the events you want to watch, without your dog. Let him rest in his crate and wait his turn. You will be glad you brought it.
I apologise to anyone I told 'I didn't think it would be a problem'. But with all of the incidents that occur at dog shows (usually NON bull breeds) we need to take precautions because we will be under a lot of scrutiny.
You all know WE need to be more responsible than the average dog owner. This is NOT the average dog SHOW. We CANT be too careful. Please understand, and help us. Think of how nice it would be to read in the paper or hear on the news about an event with dozens (or hundreds) of "pitbulls" and not ONE incident! We want this to be like the Sturgis (sp?) for bull breeds, instead of motorcycles. A known annual event with a good reputation.
Hey, if any of you have extra crates that you want to donate to rescue, or loan, or rent to someone attending for the weekend, that would be great!
I did hear from a couple of people who dont have (?) a crate.
Thanks... cant wait to meet you all and your dogs.