THE ownership of pitbulls remains a touchy subject, as many have varying opinions of and experiences with the powerful breed.
Freedom Ride Powerbreed Rescue’s (FRPR) Karen Borain shares her insight into the breed and details about the gory cases she’s dealt with recently.
The local powerbreed rescue organisation, currently situated at the Amanzimtoti SPCA, is growing in popularity. However, the number of rescued or surrendered powerbreeds coming through its doors are increasing.
“There are several stories in the news lately about pitbulls attacking humans,” she said. “I feel deeply for the victims, and by no means am I condoning or excusing the violence. I am a mother, I know that family comes first. But I hope to enlighten the public as to the immense levels of abuse too often inflicted on the breed.
FRPR currently has several pitbulls who were neglected, another which was raped and one that was stabbed. One female was locked inside a dark room alone for days on end and had to live in her own faeces. Some of our cases are dogs that were chained and used in fights. They were refused human affection. Several of them starved and were denied medical treatment. Most of them were covered in ticks. Some were previously loved, but even they were given up. These cases are just a drop in the ocean compared to the bigger picture.
Karen explained that there are thousands of these dogs being abused, yet people keep breeding them while others support those breeders.
“No, the breed isn’t for everyone and they do need special care,” admitted Karen. “Every day, we are asked to save another pitbull. They come to us broken, some beyond repair, but all of them hopeful. These proud animals are demonised when actually it is humans who are the real devils. On days like today, I am truly ashamed of my own species.”
If you’re interested in finding out more about the organisation and want to follow its work and progress, visit the Facebook page at Freedom Ride Powerbreed Rescue.
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