Learn About Pit Bulls at the SPCA’s Pit Bull Awareness Day Event

dog trainers aim to educate the public on pit bulls on Pit Bull Awareness Day, Saturday, Oct. 1.

“The goal is to educate people on what pit bulls are really like,” said Sakyie Oliphant, social media coordinator for the SPCA.

The SPCA and Tampa Bay Bullies, a non-profit pit bull rescue, are sponsoring the event set for Saturday at the SPCA, 9099 130th Ave N in Largo, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Trainers and volunteers want to show the public that pit bulls are good family pets as opposed to fighting dogs, Oliphant said.

They will be handing out “bully dollars" to well behaving pit bulls and pit bull mixes throughout the event. The bully dollars can be used to purchase items in the SPCA pet boutique.

Pet owners can have their dogs tested for good behavior through the Canine Good Citizen Testing program. This test is free for pit bull and pit bull mixes.

The program, initiated by the American Kennel Club, tests the dog’s ability to obey commands like sit and stay, how they react to noise and how they behave with other dogs. The Animal Farm Foundation, a non-profit animal rescue, will give the SPCA $150 for every pit bull that passes the test.

To have your pet tested for good behavior, bring proof of its rabies vaccinations or updated tag. Testing is free at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 pm.

Custom Tattoos by Cole will be offering $30 tattoos of paws or bones and a free tattoo give-away during the event. There will also be plenty of contests like best owner and dog look alike, biggest head pit bull, best tail wag, most pudgy and more. Pet vendors selling everything from food to accessories will be at the event.  

The event is open to all dogs and pet owners, expect dogs under 4 months. Pets must be on a leash at all times. The SPCA and other animal rescue groups will have pit bulls for adoption. 

What: Pit Bull Awareness Day

When: Saturday, Oct. 1, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: SPCA Tampa Bay, 9099 130th Ave N in Largo