February 7, 2008

SECAUCUS, N.J. – Each year, a group operating out of Pennsylvania works together to create awareness for a certain canine breed that are almost always looked down upon.

Pinups and pit bulls may sound like an odd combination. But for calendar founder Deirdre Guerin, it’s her contribution to improving public perception of the breed.

Across the nation, stories covering pit bull attacks are printed daily. As a result government bodies have proposed breed bans, fearful of potential attacks. The first pedigree on the list is commonly pit bulls. Few have made it into law – but the fact that a breed ban is the best solution legislatures come up with indicates that the stereotype supersedes reality.

Cognizant of public perception, Guerin created the calendar two years ago to raise awareness and money to help rescue pit bulls. She wants the public to know that pits are peaceful, loyal dogs.

In fact, their obedient nature may be why the breed was chosen to fight.

It wasn’t always that way, though. Throughout history and dating back to the Civil War, pits have played an important role. During World War I for example, a dog named Stubby gained notoriety for his service to the Army’s 102nd infantry. The dog was known for comforting wounded soldiers, keeping watch and once captured a German spy.

But through the years, ill-minded breeders have destroyed pit bulls’ once noble standing in American culture by training them to fight. Today, perception of the dogs as brutal beasts reigns.

In an effort to change that, Guerin and 11 other models, with their furry co-models, pose for the camera. It’s one example of how dedicated pit lovers are working to change the stereotypes. All their hard work is paying off considering last year they raised $11,000.

And at the end of the day, or end of the year for that matter, the pinups just want people to stop giving pit bulls a bad reputation. To show your support for the struggling breed, go to Pinupsforpitbulls.com.

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