Two Years Later – Abused “Pit 6” Released From Custody to Baltimore Humane Society

It’s a landmark day in Baltimore and in the world of animal advocacy.  The first of the “Pit 6,” Michelle, is on her way to getting needed medical care and finding a peaceful life.  The “Pit 6” is a group of highly abused American Staffordshire Terriers that were held as “evidence” for two years in the court case of Larry Alston.  Alston pleaded guilty on seven counts of animal cruelty.  This happens to coincide with Pit Bull Awareness Day on Saturday, October 22^nd.

The circumstances surrounding the arrest of Alston, a Baltimore City resident, all pointed toward his activity in dog fighting.  The “Pit 6,” five females and one male were found by the police locked in undersized cages.  They are believed to have been used as bait dogs.  Bait dogs are typically less tough than others and used as practice targets for dogs training to fight.  The “Pit 6” were all emaciated with multiple burn and bite scars.  They also showed signs of overbreeding – in other words they were repeatedly force-bred.  The breeding process is often tantamount to rape with owners using stands that forcibly hold the female while the male inseminates her.   In dog fighting rings it is not unusual for bait dogs to endure severe pain.  Frequently they are wounded, drowned, electrocuted, slammed to the ground, shot, or left to die a slow and painful death from their open wounds. 

Baltimore Humane Society, a no-kill shelter in Reisterstown, is committed to saving the lives of all dog breeds including those with exaggerated stereotypes.  The various breeds which all come under the "Pit Bull" label have been the target of such stereotype in the past decade.  Contrary to the bad rap given to these very strong dogs, animal advocates insist that the bully breeds are actually extremely loyal, friendly animals.  It’s because of this devotion and trainability that unscrupulous people started using them for profit in dog fighting rings. 

“We did a visit to see if the Pit 6 would even be adoptable.  What we found were super sweet, gentle dogs that were so happy to meet us and play.  They let us put our hands in their ears and mouths, and just loved playing outside on the grass,” said Baltimore Humane Society Executive Director, Jen Swanson.  “We look forward to helping these amazing dogs start their new lives.” 

Nine dogs were originally found in Alston’s basement, but two died in Animal Control’s custody and one was euthanized.  Michelle, the first of the “Pit 6” is arriving at the Humane Society today after being held for two years as evidence.  The others will be admitted as space becomes available.  They will receive medical and dental care, vaccinations, sterilization, microchips, and behavioral training.  Any donations to help with the care of these victims are greatly appreciated. 

In honor of Pit Bull Awareness Day the adoption fee for all of our Pits will be reduced by 50% over the entire weekend!! Of course, potential adopters must meet our regular adoption requirements and consent to a home visit.

The Baltimore Humane Society is a private nonprofit organization established in 1927, and is not affiliated with any national humane societies or animal welfare organizations.  Nor does it receive any funding from the government.  For more information about Baltimore Humane Society and how you can contribute, volunteer, adopt, or foster, please visit www.bmorehumane.org or call 410-833-8848, or text the word “PAW” to 80000 to donate.