THINK 1st, ADOPT 2nd!!!!

Adopting a bully is a very important decision that should not be made spontaneously or taken lightly. CBBR strives to adopt our bullies into FOREVER homes…not into homes where the owners may feel it is no longer convenient to have the dog. There are many things to consider before adopting:

• What is your level of commitment? Sit down and REALLY think about this!!
• How much time do you have to devote to the daily chores of your new bully?
• How much time do you have to devote to the training of your new bully?
• How much time do you have to devote to exercising your new bully?
• Do you understand why crate training is important with your new bully? If not, how much do you like your couch? New rug? Collectibles? Are they replaceable?
• Are you willing to forego going to the hottest club/concert/restaurant (or coming home early) because your bully is sick?
• Are you prepared to be discriminated against and possibly shunned?
• Are you prepared for friends and relatives all of a sudden being “too busy” to come over to your house?
• Are you prepared for taking extra precautions with your new bully? No tying him up outside the local coffeehouse while you run in, not leaving him unattended outside your home, learning about the breed, its history and the current events surrounding bullies.
• Are you prepared to have people say, “A PITBULL?? Aren’t you afraid of them TURNING on you??” and you be able to give them current statistics and facts about the breed?

There are many things to consider before adopting (or attempting to adopt) a bully. With the threat of breed specific legislation (BSL) and the public shyness towards the breed, you must arm yourself with knowledge. Ignorance has bred BSL…only education can euthanize it!!

Before you go any further, assess your situation:

• Do you live alone? Chances are you do not (or if you do, you may not forever). Is everyone in the house ready for a bully?
• Local Ordinances – Call your local police department/animal control/village hall and ask them what the laws and ordinances are related specifically to bully breeds.
• Landlords and Homeowners Associations – Ask them what the animal rules are and if any relate specifically to bully breeds. You must ask them if you can have an American Pit Bull Terrier! We do require a signed statement from landlords or HOA that a bully is allowed.
• Support Network – Who will help your bully if you are sick, have to go out of town or if an emergency comes up? Don’t assume anything!!! Ask your friends and family members who will help, check into local boarding facilities or vets to see if they will even board bullies…you would be amazed at how many “NO’s” you get!
• Travel – Do you travel for work or many vacations? Look into who will help take care of your bully or where you can board the dog. We can always offer suggestions for boarding facilities but they can be cost prohibitive.
• Moving Soon – You may want to wait until after your move. Amazing how many places won’t allow bullies…ask before you give a deposit or sign anything!