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Research shows about 1 in 600 pit bulls survive

Euthanizing Pit Bulls is More Common Than Most Animal Lovers Know
Jeffersonville, IN - Jill Dolon, president and founder of the animal rights coalition, Unconditional Love Foundation, says about 1 in 600 pit bulls born survive. Animal People News recently reported that "U.S. shelters kill about 1.4 million dogs per year, including 750,000 pit bulls and close mixes."

David Hall, director of the New Albany Floyd County Animal Control and Shelter, said pit bulls and other similar breeds, such as the Rottweiler, often come into the shelter. If they are unclaimed by their owner -- with evidence of ownership such as a veterinary bill -- within three business days, the animals are euthanized. The county does not adopt these dogs out to new owners.

Alan Beck, director of the Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine Center of the Human-Animal Bond, favors letting the breed go into extinction.
“This breed alone is a risk of serious public health factors,” Beck said. “We are keeping them alive against their own best interests.”

Beck said while he does not advocate taking dogs from current and caring owners, he does feel that it has become more of a social and political issue for people than a health one. Beck advocates current pit bull owners to use a muzzle and other precautions as necessary.