I've done it, again -- adopted another pet.
The Thomas Family Zoo now includes a puppy -- along with three cats.
He's a pit bull mix.
Mixed with what?
Couldn't tell you.
I adopted him Tuesday -- name yet to be decided -- from the Arizona Humane Society's Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion.
One look at his sweet face, and, it's easy to see why I had to take him home.
I was at the shelter to do a story on National Pitbull Awareness Day -- which is this Saturday, October 24.
Basically, the day is to educate the public about pit bulls.
The breed has such a negative stereotype -- when it comes to aggression and danger.
Behaviorists are quick to point out -- as with all dogs, aggression is a learned behavior.
Most aggressive pits are either abused and neglected by their owners or live with other aggressive dogs -- where they're forced to defend themselves.
If you have one, or know someone with a pit bull, you know they are big lap dogs -- smart, loving and eager to please their master: You!
Below are some pit bull facts that may surprise you:
* The pit bull was our mascot during World Wars I and II -- appearing on posters.
* Pit bulls score an 85.3% passing rate with the American Temperament Test Society.
* Pit bulls are used as search and rescue dogs and as therapy dogs.
As I mentioned above, I haven't named my new pup.
Please send ideas my way!
