Austin-Area Dogs Recognized by The HSUS's Chicago Anti-Dogfighting Campaign

August 9, 2008

Three Pit Bulls Received AKC Good Citizen Certificates After Completing Eight-Week Course

Three Austin, Chicago-area pit bulls and their trainers received "Good Citizen" certificates from the American Kennel Club as part of The Humane Society of the United States' End Dogfighting in Chicago campaign. The goal of the pit bull training program is to provide alternatives to dogfighting for young people who are role models in the community and are at risk of becoming involved in the criminal activity. 

According to Chicago police records, dogfighting is especially prevalent in the Austin area, which is why the neighborhood was selected as the base for The HSUS's End Dogfighting in Chicago campaign. Each week, the dogs have been taught standard obedience commands such as sit, stay and come, along with basic agility work using A-frames and jumps. The dogs are also taught how to interact with different people and their dogs. 

"It is wonderful to see the growth that these young men undergo when they bond with their dogs and begin seeing them as loyal, lovable companions instead of status symbols or fighting machines," said Tio Hardiman, special consultant to The HSUS's End Dogfighting in Chicago campaign.

The End Dogfighting in Chicago campaign and has a three-pronged approach to combating dogfighting in Chicago consisting of research, law enforcement and community outreach. The program will soon be launched in Atlanta, Ga. and Charleston, SC.

"Pit bulls are extremely loyal companions by nature and training them to earn their AKC Good Citizen Certificates is not only an effective anti-dogfighting tool, but a great opportunity to educate people about how wonderful these dogs are," said Jeff Jenkins, lead dog trainer for The HSUS's End Dogfighting in Chicago campaign.

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.