thank you so much for sharing your experience with with Speck. I am sorry for your loss but as you I think he (and you) was (were) lucky to have shared part of your lives with each other.

I know about pit bulls’ gentle nature. Our neighbors had one, locked up in a narrow concrete covered run along the house, lousy shelter, almost no interaction, no walks, and only a yard-out time when I was able to convince the neighbor to let him join us when I visited. This dog was big, huge head! But he was gentle and so incredibly friendly, esp. considering how little affection he received.

Once the neighbors’ small chihuahua baby stepped under the pit’s feet and cried. The big boy laid down, and turned on his back, exposing his belly. Although it clearly wasn’t his fault that he stepped on the little chihuahua (who wasn’t hurt at all), he felt responsible. He was so upset. I asked the neighbor to tell him that everybody knew that he was innocent and that he shouldn’t feel bad. When the neighbor told him this, he got up with obvious relief.

He was caring, gently playful, loving and generally gentle despite the neglect I would have felt in his place.

I applaud you to work together with an organization that helps correct the misconception about this breed; and I applaud you for doing the same.

I am sending you my heartfelt sympathy and gratitude.

Best wishes,
Heidi