I’m sorry, how sad Who was the first dog, that didn’t make it???

So sorry to hear of the lose of one of the dogs in this way. I know you do all that is humanly possible to keep all in your charge safe and well. Your track record is one to be very proud of.

Can you please let us know who dog #1 was? )=

Hi everyone,

The first dog was Beans who came to us from Vegas a couple of years ago.

Jon

So sorry for your loss. RIP Beans. )=

I am so sorry to hear the sad news. I now how hard everyone works to prevent these things from happening. You all do an incredible job and every animal in your care is lucky to be there. My thoughts are with all of you.

I am so sorry to hear this. May Beans RIP. <3

Thanks Jon. I’m so sorry for Beans. was worried it might have been Sarge, any dog death is tragic. Poor babies

Beans…rest in peace my buddy. I will always remember your smile and the cool ball I gave you when you were at the Clubhouse.

RIP sweet Beans – you had the most expressive eyes ever. I’m so glad I got to spend a little time with you in August. I’m just heartbroken.

So sorry to hear about what happened over the weekend. My heart goes out to the caretakers of those runs. I know how hard they work and how much they care for each and every dog. (

It sickens me that the aftermath of Michael Vick’s dogs is still being dealt with and he is back making millions of dollars playing football. Ugh. Im very sorry this happened and I think I speak for us all that we thank you for doing what you do to even allow these dogs a chance to live. I can’t imagine the work it takes to house all of them. Thank you for what you do.

I AM SO SAD ABOUT THE DOGGIE THAT DIED. I PRAY THAT IT DIDN’T SUFFER. GOD BLESS ALL THE DARLING ANIMALS EVERYWHERE. THANKS TO ALL THE BEST FRIENDS STAFF FOR THE CARE AND LOVE GIVEN TO ALL THE ANIMALS.
ROSEMARY

So sorry that this has happened… they had been through so much, and you all are just the most caring people ever, giving these dogs a chance in the first place. It is very sad, but I know you guys will do all that you can to ensure that nothing ever like this will happen at such a wonderful place.

AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO SEES A PROBLEM HERE ? YOU GOT DOGS TRAINED TO KILL & AT ANY TIME A DOG CAN BREAK FREE & RUN INTO THEM ? I DO NOT BELIEVE IN KILLING ANY PET BUT IF THOSE VICK DOGS STILL HAVE BLOOD IN THERE VEINS & MURDER IN THERE HEART, NONE OF THOSE DOGS ARE SAFE FROM THEM. JUST MY 2 CENTS, SORRY BUT THATS HOW I SEE IT & I TRAIN ROTTIES SO I KNOW, YOU CAN NOT UNTRAIN A MONSTER.

It is sad all the staff does such a wonderful job. I love reading all your articles

To all the caretakers, caregivers, and volunteers who had to deal with this tragedy I send my thanks and love for being who you are and giving all the dogs your time and energy to enjoy what was orginally denied them in life. My time there volunteering I saw the empathy and the love you all had for each and every dog, even on your days off you guys still called to make sure your charges were ok. Best Friends is a life changing visit, the dogs involved were not “monsters” as another writer stated. It could have been any dog when a situation that causes the heightened instinctual frenzy.Yes we all have anger at Vick, (especially me since hometown team has him and I have to watch the hero worship from nitwits around here). But it all comes down to protecting the innocent, and animals are part of that. Best Friends my prayers and wishes all to you.

I’m so sorry this happened. I have to say I disagree with Maria comments below. The work you have done with the Vick dogs is amazing and I for one appreciate all that you have done to date and will continue to do for those wonderful loving creatures that were brought to you. Thank you for what you do…..

This is devastating news. Beans will be terribly missed.

So Maria, your thoughts are that perhaps all of these dogs should have been killed because they were mistreated and abused? Yours is exactly the type of mindset that I fight against every day. To call the Vicktory dogs monsters and murderers is the height of ignorance. Exactly who’s fault do you suggest this is? I can trace this back to two words. Michael Vick. I can’t stomach pit haters, sorry.

I see a problem but I don’t think it’s the dogs. Best Friends has taken on the task to provide a loving and caring home for the dogs that belonged to a pretty poor excuse for a human being. These dogs have made tremendous strides and Best Friends and their caregivers should be commended and supported for ALL THEY DO. I am absolutely heartbroken to hear that a dog died in this tragic event but I know that a lesson will be learned and more precautions will be taken so that this does not happen again. These dogs are not monsters and murderers. They deserve the love and care that they have received and hope they continue to receive at Best Friends. All of you there have my support.

Thanks for posting your thoughts, Maria. It gives the others who follow this blog an opportunity to respond to your ill-informed posting with measured language and facts.

Such as, for example, the lack of any scientific evidence for your contention that any dog formerly abused by being forced to fight “has blood in there [sic] veins and muder in there [sic] heart”. Google, +Cherry +”Vick Dog”, for one of the thousands of examples precisely to the contrary.

There was a time when being willfully ignorant was a source of shame. Consider this my effort to bring a slice of that era forward and place it before you for your consideration.

Maria, are you seriously suggesting that all of the Vicktory dogs should have been euthanized because they were mistreated and abused? These dogs deserve a chance at a happy life after what they’ve been through. Two word for who’s at fault here – Michael Vick. To call the Vicktory dogs murderers and monsters is the height of irresponsibility and ignorance.
To all the caregivers and employees – my heart goes out to you all. I can’t imagine how difficult this is for everyone.

I am so sorry this happened. What we must understand is that accidents happen. BF’s does a great job at making the runs secure but we don’t know started these chain of events. My heart breaks for the dogs along with the staff. We have to remember that the staff is devoted and dedicated to these animals and I am sure they were devastated when they discovered this. Mariia…you are way off base. It has been proved that these dogs can be helped as evident by the ones that have been adopted. Some take much longer to rehabilitate. BF’s does a wonderful job at proving a loving environment for the ones that have issues. The staff nurtures them and loves them and they deserve every minute of it. Please remember for years, BF’s cared for Brownie…one of the most vicious dogs and he was a daschund that was not involved in dog fighting. He lived a great life and the staff loved him.

learn how to spell maria

Actually the dogs are not the “monster” – the people who trained them to kill are. I took a dangerous dog in two years ago and if you were to see him now – you would not believe me when I say he used to attack people – he’s a big baby. All dogs deserve a great life – and all dogs can be rehabilitated. As a trainer I am surprised to hear you say something like this.

This is so tragic and my heart aches for all three dogs and for all at BF. There is no one to blame in this incident – dogs do fight sometimes no matter how they were raised. Because no one was there, we will never know exactly what took place. Having been to the sanctuary, it is obvious how much the dogs are loved and cared for. Let’s hope this does not create additional negative media for the Vick dogs and pitties everywhere. We don’t know who started the fight. It is heartbreaking that a dog (Beans, I believe?) lost his life, and I know all at the sanctuary must be stunned and heartbroken. BF has done more for animals than most will in a lifetime. I thank you for that. I think we all need to ignore misinformed posts like the one sent below from Maria. Blame does no good. What is important to remember is that a life was lost, and we must all learn from that. Rest in peace, Beans. I am so sorry.

You have to be kidding me. The dog died because there was no double fencing and the care givers were warning the management that this could cause a serious problem. Once again, a problem has been caused because the powers that be refused to listen to the people who know. A dog had to die and the issue made public for double fencing to go up.

Oooooo… this is a very harsh comment from Maria. Dog fights happen even here in the dog runs of New York City among even the most average dogs. To call a dog a monster with murder in their heart isn’t pretty. It’s typically people who do such a good job earning that title.

On another note, I am very sorry to hear of this news, and relieved to hear that Denzel and Tug are OK. Very sad, and my heart is with the people who had to manage the situation, which sounds like a difficult and challenging one.

I’m sorry to hear of the loss of the wonderful dog but am also relieved the other 2 are ok. Can you tell me when and if Dogtown will be back on TV again? we really enjoyed the stories and seeing the staff do their remarkable work so anything you can do to enlighten us would be appreciated, Thank you!

I hope for the sake of your rotties that you never encounter a severe behavioral problem. As a trainer for the past decade I have managed many behavioral problems safely and with good results. Even dogs removed from abusive situations will reflect the care they currently receive. Perhaps you should examine your own methods before calling any animal a “monster”

It seems incredibly coincidental that this happened with these exact dogs so close to the annual conference. BF houses many dogs that are aggressive towards other dogs and animals. Yet this involved these “high profile” dogs and a third dogs housed a distance away. I hope that this was a tragic accident but if it was not an accident, I hope that those responsible enjoy many sleepless nights.

My name is Judah and I am am responsible for organizing the conference. I am confused by your posting and wonder what you mean.

Maria, please read the book called The Lost Dogs: Michael Vick’s Dogs and Their Tale of Rescue and Redemption by Jim Gorant. As the title suggests, it tells you all about the history and the progress these dogs have made, along with all the people who supported them with open hearts. I do have a rescue dog who has fear-aggression issue, but we’ve been making progress together. And she is a truly wonderful soul. It is the abuse the she experienced in the past that we have to fight against.

I am heartbroken to hear about this tragic event. It’s even sadder to read ignorant comments made by individuals like Maria.

Well said – thank you….

P.S…Sorry folks for the double post. I thought I accidentally wiped the first one out and obviously had a point to make…

Sounds like you have it all figured out and on good authority. Oh wait. Who the heck are you? How do you know all the answers?

As BF prepares for their conference to bring the national spot light on the plight of homeless animals, this tragedy occurs. Those that wish BFAS harm have been placing their spin on the issue hours before BF passed along the tragic news.

I *really hope* that this was an accident as it seems on the surface. The venom that a few hold towards BFAS does make me worry that someone would put their agenda above the lives of these precious dogs in order to overshadow the good that the conference does each year.

That seems far fetched to me, but if that’s the case, may these fringe individuals enjoy a special place in hell.

It is tragic no matter which dog it was, but to hear that it was Beans breaks my heart. I loved his squishy face from the first time I saw him at the Sanctuary. May he rest in peace.

I am saddened for all involved, most especially “Maria” but let us hope Maria will become educated and not remain ignorant regarding the Pit Bulls so horribly treated by a true ‘ignorant so-call man’ (Michael Vick). My very best wishes to the caregivers, John, Michele and the Doctors who helped Tug and Denzel (my all time favorite canine). I don’t believe Beans suffered, for ‘watched’ my own dogs kill one another — a dominance fight. They were loving siblings (not trained fighters and not a breed known for aggression) mother and daughter and father and son — it just happened and I couldn’t prevent or stop the fight, albeit I tried with all my being. I cannot imagine any human being referring to a canine, feline or equine as a hatefl murderer, although I can make that reference to many human being. The ENTIRE staff at Best Friends is EXTRAORDINARY and lovng. In fourteen months of volunteering I only met one who was not … Great people with great hearts I’m so sorry for your loss of one. I know the burial will be wonderful and the Rainbow Bridge and its greeters are welcoming Beans…

I am soooo sorry, just finished the book The Lost Dogs and always have had but really have the utmost of respect for all of you. Keep the chins up and lets keep our furbabies happy and loved…all of them!!

I am sooooo heart broken this happened….and I can’t imagine how the caregivers feel right now. I know in speaking to several over the years that they feared dogs fighting – by that I mean more than one dog in a run would scuffle and it would turn into a full blown fight…and of course after hours no one would know what happened until the next morning.

Poor Beans….he had the most sweetest tilt to his head as he was talked to.

Oh NO!!! Not my Beans!! He was my boy! I look at him every day I come to work on my screen saver!! Oh no!!!! I was coming to see you next month!! I can’t believe this. Beans was my boy and I don’t want to hear anyone say anything bad about Best Friends or Pit Bulls. Beans would have been destroyed a long time ago if it hadn’t of been for BF!! Thank you to all of the care takers who took care of him. YOu are all angels in my book! And for you naysayers out there, if you have never been to BF or volunteered to see the love that these people give each and every animal, you need to shut your pie holes!

So terribly sad and shocking. While it is true that domesticated animals will return to their natural instincts in certain situations, it’s by no means a battle cry to have them put down. I know BF will take all steps necessary to prevent this from happening again. I just hope that the 2 Vicktory dogs will recover from their wounds quickly.

Hi Holly,

Thank you for voicing your concern so that I can address it. Please know
that we have a comprehensive fencing protocol. Our caregivers meet
regularly with Dogtown management to point out any maintenance needs and to
draw attention to any concerns about a given dog’s fencing requirements. Our
Team Leaders in Dogtown check all maintenance requests that are turned in
and insure their proper completion.

Many of the dogs that we manage require special considerations. Our primary
concern is the animal’s safety and welfare as well as their emotional
health. In conjunction with the physical requirements like fencing, our
caregivers work diligently to meet the emotional needs of each individual
dog.

Caregivers do express concerns as the needs change for different dogs. If a
dog needs a different type of fencing than it currently has, the decision is
made to either move the dog to a run that already has the appropriate
fencing or to add the appropriate fencing to the dog’s current run. We have
runs that have normal fencing between runs, we have runs that have double
fencing between runs and we have runs that have cement board visual barriers
between runs. All of these types of fence lines meet specific needs for the
dogs.

In most circumstances it has not been necessary to have double fencing on
fence lines that are not shared with other dogs. Obviously in this case we
were tragically mistaken and work has already begun to prevent this from
happening in the future.

Sincerely,
Patty Hegwood
Director Animal Care

Monster and murder are strong words for dogs that were pushed to fight. Pitties or dogs in general will do what people ask of them if given praise for the deed. It’s unfortunate this dog died but I don’t feel like it was the Vick dogs fault because they used to fight. I know that people’s ignorance is hard to fight especially concerning pit bulls. I didn’t feel for the most oppressed dog in the country before I started running a local shelter. This breed is mostly good…it’s not their fault that people bred them to have the strongest jaw strength in the canine breeds nor is it fair to push them to fight. It’s so unfair to the dogs as individuals to be painted with the same brush as one bad dog.

A horrible tragedy – my heart goes out to the wonderful staff at Best Friends, you are second to none. RIP, Beans – my wife and I will miss your smile when we return in Feb. 2011.
Maria, can’t believe someone as involved in animal rescue as you appear to be could be so misinformed, closed minded and ignorant in regards to Pit Bulls and the Victory Dogs. Do some research – see the progress and successes these dogs have made. Some have been adopted into loving homes, earned their Good Citizenship and have become Therapy dogs – they are NOT monsters, but some are still working on overcoming the workings of the true monster – Vick.

Because we all know the great love, care and humanity exhibited at Best Friends, this can only be viewed as a truly sad confluence of events…. I applaud all who work and give so tirelessly at Best Friends and hope the knowledge of all the good you do might is some way minimize your sadness… and let’s all be grateful that the first dog (whose name was not published) went as peacefully as possible in a terrible set of circumstances and that he/she spent his/her last days in the peaceful care of Best Friends. Blessings to all of you. Lucille/Bronx, New York

“Broke into runs” … in SEPARATE buildings??? How in the world can that be possible??? Dogs don’t have opposable thumbs and very few are that clever. Frankly, I’ve never even heard of any fighting dog “breaking into” another dog’s run in an entirely different building to pick a fight… let alone TWO such dogs.

Some HUMAN left the runs unlatched. Some HUMAN is responsible for this terrible event. Deer had nothing to do with it..

I hope you do get to the bottom of this. You have someone on your staff who wants to sabotage the Vick dog’s future.

I think what Emc2Coyote means is that it can’t be a coincidence that this tragedy happened at this particular time. As described, it is impossible for the dogs to have escaped and found each other without human assistance. Someone on the BF staff is a saboteur.

Very sad, this happened to me too. A pitbull that was abandoned by his previous owner got out from the fence and attacked two of my dogs. One dog passed away in the hospital. It was my fault that the kennel was not escape proof. I learned from my mistake. Most chainlink fence are not durable!!!! definitely need a concrete floor.
Couldn’t blame the dog. I actually adopted him. He just does not have the privilege to live in the house with other pets. He has his own private suite.

Oh I’m so sorry. My heart goes out to you all, human and dogs, who are dealing with this tragic accident. No matter how well you’ve planned and all you’ve done to provide care and protection, a tragic accident can still happen. Love, blessings and prayers to all of you from all of us at Rikki’s Refuge. Kerry Hilliard, ceo

Thank you all for kind words of care and concern for our caregiver staff and the dogs at Dogtown. We greatly appreciate your kindness. Take care, Patty

I can’t believe that you’re blaming this on a person…a staff member none the less. So many people especially the caregivers are grieving over this and you want to place blame???
Unfortunately, some dogs can get through fencing, as is the case with this tragedy. They did not open doors or escape through doors that were left open.

To all of those who give their love, time and never ending care to these animals- please do not let this take away from what you do. You all astound me at the love and respect you give- this will pass. Remember, lessons grow us. Please continue your beautiful work and may God comfort your hearts

It was my understanding that Beans was a very sweet and gentle dog. Why would he all of a sudden turn vicious? That makes no sense to me.

Emc2coyote, you’ve been reading too many Clancy novels. A tragic event, and some truly wonderful people and friends are hurting. Let them grieve, investigate and address any changes or actions they need to take to ensure this doesn’t happen again.

how do you know they didn’t escape through doors? Neither Faith nor Patty has given any such details.. and they should. This is not just ONE dog escaping. It’s TWO dogs escaping.. into the kennel of a THIRD dog. All of which must have been extremely noisy if went through multiple fences.

Yes, I DO want to place blame… Certainly not on the dogs, or on caregivers who are blameless… but on the person/persons who are responsible. One dog is dead, two injured and the entire Vick dog rehabilitation program is in danger as a result of this incident. SOMEONE’S head should roll

Beans was not sweet and gentle with other dogs, just people.

Couldn’t agree more, Rochelle!!!!

Emily,
The image and reputation of the Vick dogs is front of mind all the time among those responsible for their care. Every step in the process of their rehabilitation has been managed to keep them moving forward step by step to the normal life that they had never known. As much as it would relieve us of some responsibility to blame a saboteur and as much as we would like to protect the dogs from negative attention by blaming human intervention, the evidence at the site just doesn’t support such a conclusion.
Take care,
Patty

Wow, some of you people are nuts!! You must not have enough to do in life if all you can do is jump to conclusions and draw speculation out of mid-air as to what happened and why!!! I can’t believe you’re accusing BF of staging this right before the conference! Give me a break!!
Accidents happen! Dogs lose their tempers and fights happen. Believing they won’t or shouldn’t would be the equivalent of expecting humans to never lose their temper. The fact that two of the Vick dogs were involved has no bearing. This could have happened if this dog had entered any run on the sanctuary!
And to Maria, you are misinformed and uneducated when it comes to dog behavior and particularly pit bulls. You shouldn’t be training dogs. YOU should KNOW BETTER if you truly are a trainer!!
Rest well at the Rainbow Bridge Beans and my sympathies to the Best Friends staff.

I too was saddened to hear of this unfortunate incident. Things happen and sometimes we can’t prevent them from happening. I am going through a similar incident in Enoch, Utah. A puppy escaped from his kennel and went to see the Animal Control Officer who was moving a Pit Bull mix to his outdoor kennel. Normally, Bear is a wonderful dog – he just doesn’t interact well with other dogs (especially males!). He attacked the puppy and the ACO got bit in the process. The puppy was in surgery yesterday and I suspect he’ll have a full recovery. Bear, the Pit, is going to be “put down” on Friday. It saddens me immensely because he doesn’t deserve that. An arm got in the way, she got bit. There is no training in Shelters – no-one has the time or experience to do so, and many dogs end up out in society labeled as a menace because of this. Bear is a sweet dog and even has a girlfriend Pit now (he’s fixed, so it’s all good!), but my heart breaks at the thought of him dying just because he doesn’t know any better. I’m praying for a miracle for dear, loveable Bear.

Patty: I believe you, of course and like all pit bull advocates, appreciate very much what you’ve done for the Vick dogs. I know you care about all the animals at BF, and I know accidents happen. I have gotten some additional information that helped me understand a little bit more. But as you’ve described this incident publicly so far, it’s hard to believe this could happen without deliberate sabotage or an implausible level of irresponsibility. More public details would alleviate suspicion. I hope you’ll provide them at the appropriate time.

As I said before, I hope that it was a tragic accident. I have seen dogs escape from some incredibly strong enclosures. Having loved and lost I can imagine the grief that everyone feels and I don’t wish to take away from that.

I’m so sorry about this very unfortunate incident. The villian of course is Michael Vicks and those of similiar mentiality. If he does’nt pay in this lifetime, he certainly will in the next. each time animal dies the world is diminished. Linda from AZ

What a terrible terrible accident: look, horrible stuff happens. Frankly it’s rather more remarkable to me that Best Friends is able to do the tremendous volume of work that they do, and take in and handle the enormous amount of dogs (dogs with ALL manner of behavioral challenges) and has such an exemplary safety record. This incident was a heartbreak but I really appreciate the fact that BF was really up front about the incident choosing to share it with members right away rather then covering it up. I feel very bad for the caregivers who devote their lives to these animals.. I am reconfirming my real anger at the culture of dog-fighting that, like land mines, gifts future generations with unintended and terrible consequences unforeseen by the original perpetrators. As for the “conspiracy theorists” well it will be interesting to find out what the investigation reveals but I can’t imagine a sabotage. Just my 2cents.

Maria, you are truly an idiot. I feel sorry for the Rotties you supposedly “train.”

I have had the pleasure of visiting the sanctuary many times over the years. In fact, I was there just days prior to this event, and during that time got to see Denzel, Tug and Beans, to name a few. All were clearly healthy, well cared for and loved. For anyone to suggest that this event was an intentional act by anyone at BF is absurd. Having been a long time animal rescuer I know that sometimes accidents will happen despite the most extensive precautions. My heart goes out to the caregivers at the Lodges who I have no doubt are heartbroken. I feel for every pit and bully breed dog that will once again be viewed as a demon as a result of misinformed people jumping to conclusions. To everyone at BF, please don’t allow this isolated incident, despite what a tragedy it is, to change the way the sanctuary is operated. God bless Beans…the chimes at Angel’s Rest are welcoming him home.

Are you able to share which dog was it that did not survive this ordeal?

Its not hating to admit “rehab” does not work for born-in traits. These dogs acted like we should have expected them to do. And is exactly why fighting pit bulls were traditionally not adopted out as pets. Good intentions led us away from that policy, and good intentions led to the death of this dog, just as it has led to the deaths of countless other dogs (and cats and livestock). Being humane means being so for all animals, not just pit bulls. When we cater to pit bulls and set them up to fail, other animals get hurt and die, pits get put down, and all pit bulls and good owners suffer. At what point do we realize this strategy of catering to pit bulls and pretending they can be rehabbed or are like all other dogs DOES NOT WORK??

Oops, now that I’ve quickly scanned through other postings…….. it’s Beans. RIP, buddy.

I am so very sorry this happened, but being a BF volunteer in Pup My Ride and RapidResponse, as well as having been to the Sanctuary, I realize things do happen. I have seen firsthand how responsible and completely devoted the BF staffers/caregivers are. My heart aches for Beans, and for all of you that are suffering….and I know you are. Please, let those of us not there stop looking for blame, it will only exacerbate the pain. I also feel that whatever needs to be done, will be done to figure out the events leading up to this. With all of my love and respect, Nikki Morris

So sad for all involved. I was out @ BF in May, you couldn’t find more dedicated people to care for animals than those that work there. I’m sure they are all heartbroken & the next memorial service will be a especially sad one. These people really care! I’m sure measures will be taken to prevent this from happening again.My sympathy goes out to all of you in your loss.

I worked at BFAS and I know how hard it is to get a request for fencing or whatever for the dog’s completed. We worked soooooooooooooo hard to get barrier fencing in dog run’s where dogs were redirecting on each other out of barrier frustration. So, I for one beleive Holly Smith’s blog reply.

At least you’re living up to your name. Oh yeah, society is “catering” to the Pit Bull. What rock are you living under?

You said it better than I ever could. I’ve never visited BF but do extend all my sympathies to the caregivers who have lost a much loved dog. I, like many also am very concerned that this accident not hinder the marvelous work everyone there is doing and that this tragedy NOT be used as fuel in the ban all pits movement. I actually love all of the Victory dogs from afar and wish each an everyone of them, yes including Denzel and Tug, the best life and families of their own. Or if that is not possible then long and happy lives at BF.

I worked at a very respectable no kill shelter for some time (not BF). As much as you try to prevent dog fights, they happen occasionally. It’s always sad. And no, it’s not always the pit bulls. Every shelter has tons of pit bulls, and after interacting with so many of them, I can confidently say that they are wonderful dogs. I can also affirmatively say that some dogs are escape artists. Some have shocked me for how they have managed to get into or out of a “secure” area.

BF Staff — hang in there. You all are doing a wonderful job and we are grateful for everything you do.

My sympathies go out to all the caregivers at Best Friends. I spent a week volunteering there this past May and I will be going back next May. Best Friends is a life changing experience. I have never met a group of people who care so much about each and every animal there. They even take the time when they see you or one of the dogs out in public to visit with it. I was amazed they knew each dog by name. As for the dogs involved in this. I am very sorry. The one who lost his life may God Bless you, run free, play hard and sleep in the angels arms at the Rainbow Bridge. For the 2 pits…. I am sorry that sub human Micheal Vick did this to you. Know that you are loved and always will be at Best Friends and all those who believe in you., like I do, Maria if you believe they should have been euthanized…. you don’t belong on this site…sorry hun.

All animals deserve a chance for a happy loving home. And for those who never know that life, at least there are places like this that will provide love and food and shelter without fear of pain and torment. To those who think dog fighting is sport, you are sick, sick, sick individuals. Thank you for what you do and I feel for your pain at this recent tragedy.

I’m so very sorry for you who work with these animals. This was certainly a tragic event. I think sometimes things just happen. I’ve been out there and seen the magnificent work you do with all these animals; please do not lose heart & keep up your wonderful work.

To all the caregivers at best friends, my heart go out to you for the tragedy you all had to deal with monday morning. I was just there two weeks ago volunteering and saw the love and care you all give each and every pup. They all deserve to have the care and love no matter where, who or what was done to them. As far as i am concerned Vick should not be aloud to be playing football after what he did to these beautiful creatures. Shame on anyone who thinks they should be destroyed. Staci from PA

“Let’s hope this does not create additional negative media for the Vick dogs and pitties everywhere.”
Of course this will create bad media. They’re pitbulls, and while I do think they’re beautiful dogs, they certainly aren’t dogs for everyone, and the people who adopted these dogs underneath the pretenses that they were should be held accounted for.

You can not undermine or expect 100+ years of a dog bred for fighting to be let go so easily when the right stimuli arrives. Especially when these dogs adopted out were exposed and bred for such a purpose.

It’s sad that that these pitbulls were bred for such a cruel act, but in short, what should one expect?

“Accidents happen! Dogs lose their tempers and fights happen. ”
Yes, but most other dogs don’t have such a high record for doing this like pitbulls do. This is common sense for anyone who does any research of the propensity of which they bite and the normal damage they inflict because of their power and tenacity.

And most other dogs that do fight don’t KILL the other dog. It’s normally to show dominance (have the other dog roll or run in submission), and rarely to kill.

It is sad what happened and what will happen to all three dogs. But pitbulls are dangerous animals because they are so powerful. And I highly criticize the people who released these dogs into the hands of average caregivers when they should have gone to someone who had a lot of time and experience handling powerful breeds.

Dogs are not people… they don’t have the capacity to understand the objective stances of being given a second chance. And while it is true that they don’t understand what they did was wrong, one can not discount that what they did was in fact, morally wrong (by human standards anyways).

Dogs killing dogs is not a normal act in the canid kingdom or elsewhere as far as I know. Sure they fight, really hard, but they normally do not kill the other dog, and it’s more so to show dominance (have the other belly up) or drive them off their territory. In all the stray and domestic dog fights (12 total) I’ve seen start and end, it was never with the intention to kill. And all dogs did as stated above.

“To call the Vicktory dogs murderers and monsters…”
These two are murders because they killed anther dog, and they are monsters because they did so with such skill and ease. Not surprising seeing as they’re dogs who were bred and taught to fight….

I do feel sorry for these pitbulls and the many who suffer the fate they did. But to state that what they did was an “accident” or “normal” is beyond the truth, and clearly shows whoever claims such things to be the true ignoramus, not the people who see what it was these dogs really did.

Hopefully if pitbulls are adopted out, they will be places in homes that have caregivers who understand how to deal with powerful breeds and ensure that things like this wont happen again.

Shows That Do This:
Pit Boss
Pit Boss XXL
Dog Town
Dog Whisper
Pitbulls & Paroles.

Pretty much all of animal planet and anyone who’s a pit nutter (different and more asinine from a pit lover)

I think its unlikely that someone would want to sabotage some dog , but then again, there are crazy people out there.

Apparently, you know nothing about this breed of dog! Perhaps you should do some volunteering yourself and find out a little bit more about them before you pass judgement. Let’s not forget these dogs were “America’s Dogs” as seen in the Little Rascals, before they were TAUGHT BY HUMANS to fight!! These dogs are not born to fight just as we are not born to be prejudiced. Unfortunately, these wonderful dogs have been born to lose because we are afraid of what we don’t understand. You DO NOT understand. As far as creating negative media, the media doesn’t care about one dog. There have been more bites from small dogs recorded than Pit Bulls. Seriously, get educated.

There are no average caregivers at Best Friends. You have obviously never been there.

Go away. You’re an ignorant idiot. Learn to spell before you so valiantly and passionately try to make your point. Put some of your energy into education. You’ll never change my mind about pit bulls, especially because you have no clue what you are talking about. I’m not going to engage further conversation with a fool. Go play your troll games with someone else if that’s all you have to do.

My heart goes out to denzel and tug and all the controversy that will face them in the coming weeks. I personally spent some time with Tug-a-lug earlier this year and I fell in absolute love. I’m so sorry to hear about Beans, who I also was so fortunate to meet and spend time with. I sure hope that this can pass without becoming a media blow-up. These dogs have come so far, and God help those who don’t understand what BFAS and all the pitbull rescuers in this world face everyday. BEST WISHES TUG AND DENZEL!

I’m not passing biased judgment.

I am friend with various types of people who own pitbulls. Mind you these people seem to be more competent at keeping their dogs than most and understand that pitbulls are not like “any other dog” which is a false statement anyways because a pug is not a Labrador is not a pitbull is not a poodle.

You know nothing my dear fellow… pitbulls were bred and culled FOR fighting a good hundred years before they became pets on the side. And yes, I say they became pets on the side because they were originally bred to fight, not be household pets. First it was bulls, then it was hogs and soon dogs.

Sure there have bee more bites from other dogs, but a bite is different from mauling and pitbulls have the highest record for mauling AND killing than any other breed of dog…. about 56% of them ALONE causes unneeded injury and death. While you might have two labs if that kill anyone let alone maul.

Here’s a thing I wrote on the difference of dog bites and maul:
http://pitbullmuckracker.blogspot.com/2010/10/is-bite-just-bite.html

And here’s another I wrote about the percentage of those thing:
http://pitbullmuckracker.blogspot.com/2010/10/pitbull-hoax-part-1.html

Educate YOURSELF before you start spreading unneeded lies….

Just because I had one or two typos does not mean I”m ignorant nor does it mean my reasoning is less justifiable because of it.

And wow, now I’m a troll because I don’t think all pitbulls are innocent little angels that need no regulation or proper mention o their power?

And I have no clue what I’m talking about? I’d suggest that you read these two blogs in order to see how much I don’t know, which is far less than you.

My Blog:
http://pitbullmuckracker.blogspot.com/
Terrierman’s:
http://terriermandotcom.blogspot.com/2009/10/pit-bull-rights-verus-pit-bull.html

And if any anon comments are made they will be delete , anon comments are only made by cowards as they just want to state and run. But I’m no such coward and will fight for a point if I make it, unlike what you seem to be doing by running away.

Everyone has blood in their veins–that is what they’re for. But murder in their heart? This seems like a projection of human behavior onto an animal. How can we know what is in a dog’s heart, especially as you’ve used the term, as a metaphor for personal beliefs/choices/ morality? And “monsters”? There is a monster, but he’s on the football field.

I have never been there, but obviously they didn’t take the right precaustiong with their pitbulls.

I have various friends who’ve owned pits for years and treated them like family. But they were smart, and were sure the runs their dogs were in had a roof that kept out rain (and kept the dog from climbing) as well as concrete floors on the bottom of the runs. And they normally had copious amounts of hay to keep their pads from being damaged.

They’ve never had a problem with their pits, ever.
So I don’t find if unreasonable that the door wasn’t properly locked or that the kennels were completely proofed for such a breed of dog who are great and intelligent escape artists. You would think they’d know this.

Also, from rereading your statement. It’s safe to say that you probably never read mine, heh.

If you find out how it happened, please let us know. It is very sad that you lost one dog, must have been a painful death for him, but unfortunately, things like this happen, and we have no control over it. I know you guys are hurting over this, but know that you gave them the best care possible, and all that is left to do now, is what you are doing to insure this doesn’t happen again.

“At what point do we realize this strategy of catering to pit bulls and pretending they can be rehabbed or are like all other dogs DOES NOT WORK?? ”

As soon as 1 of the pits rescued from the Vick property, or 1 of the rescued pits I work with, displays spontaneous, unfocused, unprovoked aggression toward 1 human or 1 other animal of its own species.

Or, as soon as you post 1 link to 1 study conducted by a reputable body that indicates these animals display breed-specific behavioral tendencies that cause them to be more likely to display spontaneous, unfocused, unprovoked aggression regardless of environmental circumstances.

The entire Internet awaits your investigation, Turkey (perfect choice of username, by the way). And we here look forward to the deliverance you are about to bring us from the knowedge gained from decades of study and dog-handling experience.

I agree with everything you said except BF does need to change the way things are operated. As Faith mentioned in her article, they need to have at least one person at the Sanctuary all night. This incident could possibly have been prevented had someone been there. Hopefully, they will add a night patrol to avoid future incidents.

I agree ONLY with the last paragraph of your statement. Let’s not forget how these dogs ended up like this. Michael Vick trained these dogs to fight and kill. Plain and simple. They are hardly muderers or monsters. They were victimized by a monster who never really had to pay for what he did. The people at Best Friends are giving these dogs sanctuary and rehab. If they did ANYTHING wrong, it was not instituting a night patrol. But, we learn from our mistakes and hopefully this will be put in place now.

Ted, I think we’ve just seen 1 of the dogs rescued from the Vick property display enough unprovoked aggression to break out of his caged area, break into another dog’s caged area, kill that dog, and then break into another dog’s caged area to attempt to kill that one. Seriously, that’s why we are having this conversation, because of what a Vick dog did. There dozens of examples weekly of pet pit bulls displaying spontaneous, unprovoked aggression, whether focused or not. Just because you personally have not yet had the pleasure with one of your rescues does not mean no one else has. Furthermore, no study is needed to prove breeds of dog display breed-specific behavioral traits, and you wouldn’t ask of a study for any other breed because it is common knowledge. Do you need a study to prove that the average border collie will do a better job herding sheep than a poodle? Do you need a reputable body to inform you that scent hounds will follow their nose without being treained to do so and therefore need to be on leashes? If you want to know about pit bulls, just go to the many pit bull rescue sites out there that insist the number one rule of pit bull ownership is “never trust your pit bull not to fight” and declare owning a pit means also owning a breakstick just in case. What you have done Ted is repeat the same, tired lines about studies and experience when neither is needed and you know it. No one buys those lines anymore. I assume you’ve read the history of pit bulls, the traits that were bred into them, the traits that can be expected to be found in them before you started working with them. There really is nothing more needed than that.

But if you still more, or have not done any research yourself, then I suggest you read this to give you an example of what has happened to others
http://www.scribd.com/doc/36262816/My-Pit-Bull-Experience-by-Giancarla-Churchman

It’s is truly a sad day when any dog passes. I can only imagine the fear and hurt they all went through. I had 2 dogs that always fought too. No they were not Pits. They were a mix breed with Blue Healer. I have no idea why they always fought, I guess it was just them. I LOVE all my dogs and it breaks my heart when they get hurt. I think maybe dogs are like people, not everyone likes everyone. Sad news indeed.

According to Faith’s original blog it seems to have been Beans (not a Vick dog) who originally got out of his run and then he broke into the run of Tug (a Vick dog). Tug got away from Beans then broke into Denzel’s (another Vick dog) run. Also, according to comments by some of the caregivers at BF Beans was dog aggressive. It appears that it was Beans who first got out and was where he should not have been. If Beans was dog aggressive it could very well have been him who began the aggressive chain of events that ended in his death.

Don’t forget free neuter/spay for pit bulls only, as well as pit bull only training classes, rehab, etc. that other breeds don’t need or don’t have access to. An aggressive dog gets put down and not adopted out. An aggressive pit bull gets rehab, promoted adoption, and if all fails, a sanctuary to be warehoused in.

Beans was animal aggressive. He wasn’t a pit bull. And he wasn’t a Vick dog. He was wonderful with humans. He could sneeze on command (just thought I’d throw that in there!).

My heart goes out to all at BFAS, especially the caregivers and trainers-they do incredible work of the heart. I have seen firsthand the dedication and love they have for the animals, and visa versa. Much love and Blessings to you all.

Thanks Julie, that had been my impression from what I first read. Beans was neither a Vick dog or a pit. I also had the impression that he was extremely people friendly but was not at all accepting of other animals. It is shameful of some folk to make the assumption that because two of the Vick dogs were involved the incident had to have been their fault. That automatic assumption says much more about our own prejudices than it says about the individual dogs involved.

Beans sounds as if he had a great personality and it’s a shame he didn’t have time to work through his aggression towards other animals. I’m sure he was given much love by his caretakers as are Tug and Denzel. I hope their recovery is speedy and that they are soon back to health. They, as well as all the other animals are given wonderful care and helped in whatever way they need.

I am deeply saddened to learn of this incident and I my thoughts and prayers are with the staff and volunteers. As an animal shelter volunteer, I know that no matter how many precautions are taken, rare accidents can and do occur without explanation or blame. Our shelter formerly had a few dog fights per no ones fault of dog escapes, and serious injuries to dogs occurred, and probably death if no volunteer was present. These were not even pit bulls or any type of bully breed. We took measures to improve safety and no incidents have since occurred, however, still always a possiblility.

THANK YOU FAITH FOR LETTING US KNOW WHAT HAPPENED. IT’S A SAD STORY BUT ONE THAT NEEDED TO BE TOLD. MAYBE I MISSED IT BUT THE DOG THAT WAS KILLED, WHAT WAS HIS TEMPERMENT? IT SOUNDS LIKE HE STARTED THE TROUBLE & UNFORTUNATLY DIED AS A RESULT. HAD IT BEEN ONE OF THE VICK DOGS THAT DIED WOULD THERE BE SO MUCH DISCUSSION ABOUT THE PIT BULLS AND THEIR BACKGROUND?

For any of you who are familiar with the Vick dogs, I have met Lucas, Michael Vicks prize fighter. Lucas is court ordered to never leave the sanctuary. When I was there his care giver mentioned that they did a DNA test on him and he has cocker spaniel mix in him. Last I checked, cocker spaniels are not very agressive dogs and probably wouldnt do very well thrown into a dog fighting ring.
A dog is raised BY HUMANS to be a fighter. Pitties may have the ability to do more damage when engaged in a fight simply by their build and determination to please. If we didnt have horrible people in the world breeding pitties and other bully breeds to fight, maybe there would be less of a need for BSL and fear of these misunderstood breeds.

I am in tears reading this. I just volunteered last week and know the extent that Best Friends, their caregivers & staff go to to keep these animals safe. In any hightened frenzy such as the deer in the area would set off such extreme excitement in even our family dogs who may react in ways we would never expect. We cannot condemn any of the animals for what happened. This is a very sad freak event. I cannot imagine what everyone at BF’s are going through. My heart goes out to you all. Best wishes for Tug & Denzel’s full recovery. (Ditto to the comments from Debby from PA.) If anyone has negative comments toward any of the animals because of their bloodlines, or the efforts of BF’s in rehabilitating any animal that deserves a chance should not make comments on this website. Kathy (NJ)

Sigh…reading some of these negative postings is so disheartening and draining. As a long time LA Programs volunteer for BF, one who has volunteered at the sanctuary and met some of those caregivers for the Vick Dogs, this is all very disturbing to me. These are good people and they are my heroes. I am honored to know some of them, and be a part of this magnificent and life changing organization. The focus should be on the loss that has taken place. I would like to ask Faith and Patty to let us know when Beans has been laid to rest. Perhaps a blog about his service would help us all heal a little bit. And to Beans, go on home now dear one to your final resting place. The wind-chimes in Angel’s Rest will bring you home. I will visit you there in the Spring. You are loved, you are missed, and you will never be forgotten. Peace be with you.

I think there is so much effort being made to HELP the pitbulls (from people who know) because of all the damage media and others have done to hurt the pitbull. People who know the breed are going out of their way to show you “Hey….its a dog…not something hell spawn.” Give the breed a chance. I’m not a believer that a dog is born a killer – no more than I am a believer a human is born a killer…some kind of intervention takes place in their lives to make them what they are. If you remove the cause – you remove the threat.

You can’t adopt a puppy or a dog and not spend the time to train them – they are intelligent animals who will learn…don’t send a kid to school and throw them in your backyard and see what you get. Any dog left to be a dog with no training and boundaries is capable of hurting someone – not just a pitbull….I’ve seen some pretty nasty Chi bites.

It’s really hard to understand how this could have happened. How did the dogs escape from their runs and get into the runs of other dogs? Do you have security cameras on the property? If not you should install them immediately. Since it seems so impossible and you’ve made this story public, please accept that you’re going to have to provide a plausible explanation for how it occurred. It is quite possible that a human (not necessarily a staff member) facilitated the incident.

I’m so very sorry to hear about this situation. It’s sad no matter what angle you see it from. Thank you to Best Friends for reacting quickly given the circumstances. Thank you also for examining the situation to avoid future occurrances. Most importantly, thank you for handling it in such an open manner. No matter what kind of facility (even a home) you are that brings animals into your lives, things like this can happen anywhere. All we can do is learn from it, but we can’t learn if we aren’t exposed and educated. I visited Best Friends a few years ago. It’s such a beautiful, serene place that I can’t imagine what it would feel like to come upon that situation. My deepest sympathies to everyone involved. Big Hugs from Michigan. – Miranda

I am so sorry for the loss to all those caregivers. Dog fights happen between the best of dogs sometimes. I have friends who rescue and have had terrible fights with only 3 dogs in the house. They are animals and things set them off sometimes.
I am glad 2 survived and how sad for them to be involved in a fight again.
I have worked at BF and know every precaution is taken to make sure these things don’t happen. Thanks for all you do for the animals.

So now Lucas is a cocker spaniel mix? And this is supposed to be proof that all the pit bull in Lucas didn’t influence his genetic predispositions? Bwaaaaa-hahahahaha!

Dog aggression is a fact of life in individual dogs of all breeds. Don’t blame Best Friends or Dogtown for this incident; blame the individuals who abused these dogs and encouraged them to fight others early in life. One could as easily do the same to Poodles or Golden Retrievers with a few generations of abuse–Pit Bulls just happen to be the current victims. If this incident saddens you, ask what you can do to prevent animal cruelty and to provide safe “no other dogs” homes for dogs like these.

Accidents like this can happen. The only thing we can do with such events is try to learn from them. Of all the years I’ve been a member of BEST FRIENDS, this is the first time anything like this has occurred. I think everyone needs to collect themselves….and then simply mourn the fact that this poor dog is gone….and then go on with solving the problems involved.

@DJ……
The pit bulls were not the issue here. Beans was out, he happened to get into a couple of the other dogs pens. Beans was dog aggressive, it was two dogs against one. This tragedy would very likely have happened if he had entered any other of the community runs. Since Beans was dog aggressive, then he was being kept in that area of the sanctuary so he was likely to have been in the area with other aggressive dogs, any of which could have also killed him.
A person who has not had hands on experience with pit bulls cannot accurately comment about their temperament or behavior. If you don’t have the experience with them, you simply do not know them. Pit Bulls really don’t have a “high record” of incidents, we just simply hear about it all the time from the media and rarely hear about attacks by other breeds. I simply can’t address much of what you stated here in the comments but I would recommend that you get accurate information when it comes to pit bulls and not the BS the media spreads.

I am so sorry about this tragedy. I know the caregivers must be crushed. The fact that, to my knowledge, there has not been an incident like this at the sanctuary in the past shows just what a wonderful and careful job is done by everyone. Accidents can happen in the best of circumstances, but with as many dogs that are housed in Dogtown it’s truly amazing that something like this has not happened before and again is a testament to the facilities and caregivers of Best Friends. Thank you to all the staff of Dogtown and the sanctuary.

Hi Julie,
I had actually taken the beloved Beans on a sleepover. His caregivers definitely said he was a pit bull, and he was actually featured in BF pitbull program, Saving America’s dog. Just wanted to clarify that. We all mourn his loss.

I’m saying blame it on the people who put Lucas and all dogs in a situation where they need to fight for their life. People can’t go and say all “pitbulls are born killers/biters” because most often pitbulls are mix breeds. You cant blame Lucas’s breeding as the reason he is a champion fighter when he has cocker spaniel in him and god knows what else.

You would be wrong, Lori. Blue Bear lost a leg when a dog in a neighboring run chewed it off. This was another incident of no double fencing even thought the care givers begged for it.

There are pittie only trainings and rehabs because most places don’t allow them! Pitties are not allowed at most training classes and daycare/kennels or dog parks because insurance wont cover them! They are given “pittie only” access because society and the media has excluded them from everything else!

I would like ot know if the dog that died was one that I was following…was the poor thing on the website? I cannot imagine anyting worse.. I am glad you are doing patrols.

I first read about Beans on Petfinder. I love pit bulls (Beans was listed as a pit bull terrier) and came all the way out to BF to meet him. He was a lovely dog. Very affectionate. He walked so easily on his leash, and he gave the softest kisses. I will always carry those kisses in my heart.

Like Vicki, I used to work as a caregiver at Best Friends. (Hi, Vic!) Many of us tried so hard to get double fencing put on all the lodges. But management said that there was no money to do so. Again and again, we saw dogs with chewed off ears, tails, legs–all wounds done thru fences. (Example: Nicole got her lip totally damaged because a dog in the next run pulled on Nicole’s lip and tore it to pieces.) We begged, we cried for double fencing, but the answer was always the same, “No money.” If Beans and Tug and Denzel HAD been in double-fenced runs, none of this would have happened. None of it.

I also met Lucas. And although he is scared of strangers, he is loving and kind with his caretakers. They love him and Lucas obviously loves them. Some of the Vicktory dogs were more traumatized than others. Lucas will live his life at BF’s, being loved and respected for his entire life….some dogs that are homed don’t get that.

The truth is, BF doesn’t have the money for double fencing. They are barely making ends meet. This is why several months ago, they laid off the security guard that patrolled dogtown at night. (His name was Brian, by the way.) I understand that caregivers get emotional about these things, but the caregivers are overly attached to their dogs. That is why BF has to move caregivers around, to prevent excessive attachment. Double fencing, by the way, is very unsightly.

Berealguys, what difference is it if the double fencing is unsightly if it keeps animals safe? “BF barely making ends meet…” have you seen their tax reports (990) which they must publish as a non-profit? They made about $43 million last year and $39 million the year before. You need to live in the “real” world.

What a shame the “other dog” tricked poor old Tug into killing him. How snekky of him to escape and tear up poor Tug kennel and release poor Denzel too, its a good thing Tug killed that mean old “other dog”.

I felt so bad when I read Faith’s post this morning. BEANS IS GONE. What is the point of blaming or pointing fingers at anyone? The dogs at BF, whether Vicktory dogs or not, are loved and cared for. They are lucky to have made it to Kanab. I am sure those in charge will make the right choices to correct the problem so hopefully it doesn’t happen again. The important thing is that we think about how heartbroken all the caregivers are and the volunteers who knew Beans and everyone else who has been blessed enough to have had the opportunity to go to Angel Canyon and be part of Best Friends. RIP Beans. Next time you are there pay a tribute to him at Angel’s Rest.

Denzel’s back to his normal self? While he’s still hooked up to drains? And how have you already started the double fencing when you said it needs to be ordered first? And they certainly didn’t see any patrol last night. And the story you gave your card buddy about Beans crawing back to his own run to die really ices the cake here. Speaking of pits, our condolences to the caregiver who lost a dog from participating in your “Pit with a Friendly Dog” program.
…Just thoughts in passing…
http://exfriender.wordpress.com

Society and media? Please! The reason they have been excluded is because they have caused so many problems! Insurance companies keep records, they know which dogs cause the payouts, it has nothing to do with society and the media. And as far as dog parks go, any person knowledgable about pit bulls will tell you they don’t belong in dog parks because of their inborn dog aggression traits! The fact that pit bull owners still have to be told not to bring pit bulls to dog parks or other places where dog mix freely shows you just few pit bull owners have a clue to what’s at the end of their leash. Very, very few pit bull owners are knowledgable and responsible with their dogs, and pit bulls are not a breed that can handle that low level of ownership – that’s why there has been so many incidents, that is why they have been banned. Stop blaming society and the media for a problem that has been created by pit bull owners.

Dogs are not people. Dog breeds have been created to do certain tasks and have certain traits – we all judge dogs based on their breed, and somehow this is perfectly fine except for the dog fighting breeds. Pit bulls are born fighters, they are not taught how to fight. Why do so many pit bull owners still not understand this?

Do me a favor, research racing greyhounds and learn how they are treated on the track. And then explain to me how they are not killing a dozen people a year like pit bulls. That one example shoots the “its all how you raise them” theory right out of the water.

Best Friends, I commend you for being forthright about this tragic incident. Too few organizations practice transparency when the news they’re sharing is bad.

Tragedies happen to people and animals all the time. Even when the people involved were being responsible. Tragedies involving animals are often caused by other animals, and most of the time it has nothing to do with any of the involved animals being pit bulls. My 14 and 15 year old dogs managed to catch and kill a squirrel in my back yard last week. That doesn’t make them monsters and it doesn’t make me irresponsible. Responsible caregivers, whether thy’re individual pet owners or managers of shelters or sanctuaries, make reasonable efforts to prevent incidents like this from happening, but accidents will still happen. Best Friends cares for 1500+ animals at any given time. It would be unrealistic to expect that nothing would ever go wrong.

Becky, it has been reported that Beans was killed in his own run. I highly doubt Beans broke out of his run, broke into other runs, just to go back to his own run to fight and die. More likely Tug (Vick dog) broke out of his run (not uncommon for a pit bull to do), broke into Beans run, killed Beans, and then broke into Denzel’s run to fight with him. The intentionally vague description of what happened by Best Friends was done to protect the Vick dogs, their cash cows. Pit bull apologists can’t afford the Vick dogs being violent, it will cause people to question what they are doing and if rehab is truly effective.

By the way, none of us who own pets feel that dog-aggressive-not-human-aggressive dogs are safe in society. Being dog aggressive is not okay, and being okay with humans does not cancel out the issue of being dog aggressive.

No animal is a born fighter. Show me any other animal in the world that will fight just for the hell of it without having any life influence. Not for food, not to defend themselves, not to please a human. Dogs are taught to fight by humans, and because pitties have the strong jaw, muscular body, and determination to please they have become the victims of being labeled too dangerous to live. Greyhounds race for the prize, just as pitties fight for the love. You let a trained greyhound loose and chances are you wont catch him. You let a trained pittie with dog aggressions around other dogs, the outcome probably wont be good.
Best Friends Sanctuary does the best they can with what they have. They get by on donations, volunteers and workers who are there for the DOGS not the money. Accidents happen and this is a horribly unfortunate one.

Best Friends was only “forthright about this tragic incident” after someone else spilled the beans. Check the link on George’s post and learn the truth, not the BF sanitized version. If BF only used 1/3 of the $43 million they earned last year on the animals, according to your 1500+ figure, Karen, they could have spent over $9000 per animal. I would think that would have been enough for double fencing in DogTown. Yes, accidents do happen, even under the best of conditions. I doubt the caregivers, who have been begging for double fencing all along, would call this an accident. More like a tradgedy waiting to happen.

I would like to see a picture of this dog, Lucas.
The reason he was a prized fighting dog was because he was mostly pitbull, and I’m pretty sure the DNA test would reveal this.

You can teach a dog to fight to some extent. But there’s an obvious reason as to why pitbulls are used to the propensity that they are. They effective and fast learners at the trade and have an extremely high tolerance to pain that most other dogs do.

If other dogs were so proficient at fighting as pitbulls are they would be used INSTEAD. A game owner will not waste his time training rotties, shepherds, or other dogs because he knows that PITBULLS ARE MORE EFFECTIVE. This is just common sense and anyone who thinks otherwise is horribly misinformed and obviously not using an iota of common sense…
I do wish that any and every dog regardless of breed should be placed in a loving and caring home. But no dog that is used for fighting should ever be “rehabilitated” or released upon the common public.

I would rather Ceaser Milan get a hold of these dogs that most other agencies…

But you’re missing if he was a third pitbull then sure, he could have been less aggressive. But cocker spaniels are not known to be as violent as pitbulls or Shepard and so obviously that fighting streak comes from Lucas’ pitbull side.

I’ve never seen a cocker kill another dog or fight to the death, although I’ve heard storyies and seen images of them being killed by other dogs including pits.

I don’t mind that the people are giving solace to those dogs. However, they should also care about their other dogs and provide better enclosures so this kind of thing doesn’t happen again.

And you only agree with the last part? Since when did dogs have the moral capacity of a human being? If either dog knew that what they were doing was wrong. Neither of them would have had the tenacity to pursue and kill each other.

A lot of these shows are forgetting to mention some really important things about the dog thought that should be said. And because of this, I don’t consider them as helping more so than them pimping out a mythology that does more harm than good.

These dogs generally do not make wonderful family pets, their high level of mauling (different from a bite) is far surpassed any dog breed on children and they have caused the most deaths to children. Yet you see shows like Pitboss trying to home dogs they literally get off the street (without doing any temperament testing) to houses that have loud and rambunctious children.

They do not mention that many pits have a high prey drive nor do they mention that many pits do not do well in homes with other breeds of dogs, pits, or small yapppy dogs.

I never said pitbulls are ignorant. They’re actually very intelligent and their propensity to escape as well as learn tricks clearly show this. However, training a dog a few tricks does not mean its a tame animal. There are very few people who should have pitbulls because obviously, many of them dump their pits in shelters once they grow out of that cute puppy stage and many trained pits (trick wise) turn on people.

You have to be a dominant owner, and the only person who’s never had a major issue with his pits is Ceaser Milan, and not everyone can do what he does. If they could do this with the inherent skill he has, we might not have so many problems with pitbulls.

Ah, right. Sorry. I had his breed mixed up with Jude. Thanks for the clarification.

Syrian hamsters will.

If you place any other rodent or Syrian hamster in their cage and they will fight to the death 90% of the time once they’re sexually mature. And they do this in the wild as well.

I’ve had all types of hamsters and Chinese hamsters are the most docile, having the capacity to live in domestic and wild family groups as well as living with certain other species. I had five hamsters live with a two mice and they never fought.

If this is the case, then why are pitbulls who are shown copious amounts of love killing the children of the masters they so respect. This does not sound like an animal that does what it does for love.

I am probably going to get flamed for this but it is what it is. Does BF do amazing work? Absolutely. Do they make mistakes? Absolutely. It is always interesting to read responses to postings because there are some who refuse to see BF doing any wrong. I have been volunteering at the sanctuary for many years, way before Dogtown put them on the radar, and am friendly with many of the caregivers. BF is not perfect. And I think we would all agree that nobody is, including each one of us.

I am here to post an apology to Beans because I feel he is being thrown under the bus. In her response to this event, Faith herself says that we can only speculate on what happened. Nobody, except for the dogs, will ever know what exactly went down. Based on the limited information that was provided (though I don’t know how much information any of us is owed), it is very easy to jump to conclusions and lay blame. I just truly hope that Beans is not being made out to be the bad guy because of the negative press that could result from a Vick dog being involved in an incident of this nature.

A previous poster made a comment about requests for better fencing falling on deaf ears. It’s too late to save Beans but if anything comes out of this, I hope that steps are taken to make sure that all precautions are taken against this happening again. This has been a tragedy for all involved – dogs and people alike. Hundreds of dogs are entrusted to the care of BF, including many that are dog aggressive. You cannot put a price tag on their safety. And ultimately, I believe the blame for this incident falls to BF. BF was lulled into a false sense of security and it resulted in the death of one dog and injuries to two more. If caregivers have been raising concerns about the need for double fencing…the very people who actually interact with the dogs on a daily basis….they should not have been ignored. How many people can truthfully say management at their company has a feel for what’s really going on? I realize Patty has already been here to address concerns raised on the blog but, as they say, there are 3 sides to every story – yours, mine and the truth.

It is too late to save Beans but let his legacy be an environment where all of these dogs are protected. RIP sweet Beans.

Funny how beans seems to be a Staffordshire Terrier, another extremely slight variant of the APBT.

Pitbulls were an issue seeing how Beans was one. Well, he was a Staffie but they’re of the same breeding stock as APBTs with little to no genetic variance outside and within the AKC. Staffordshire is nothing more than a name change the for the pitbull.

I’ve never had hands on experience with Tasmanian devils but I know they’re something that should not be kept as pets or handled, not matter how tame they can be in the hands of a good keeper. Same goes for pitbulls, all I need is well documented evidence of their true nature. This doesn’t mean I dislike or hate them, but it does mean I don’t think they should be kept as pets at large by common day owners. They are NOT family animals.

“rarely hear about attacks by other breeds”
Go to this site:
http://www.dogsbite.org/bite-statistics-fatalities.htm
They list fatalities from boxers, akitas, labs, and other breeds accurately and with out biased, and pitbulls are still on the top chart for bites, mauling, and fatality than any other breed.

And I do my research. Which is why I believe pits are better suited pets in single dog/animals homes with out small children (responsible teens preferably), and with people who know how to really exercise and discipline a dogs body, mind, and nature. You can’t fully control it, but I’m sure the rate of which the attack would be far less if owned by logically realistic people.

Pits generally do not make good pets or family pets for that matter. Although there are, of course, some excellent pitbulls out there.

Oh, and if you read my above statement. You’ll see I think they can be nice dogs and I have been around many of them. But that still doesn’t mean they a pet for everybody and they should not be toted as such….

A pit is not a lab is not a pug is not a poodle is not an akita….

The other dog of which seems to have been a Staffie.
Either way you paint it, it’s dogs used for fighting doing what dogs used for fighting were bred to do.

Eeerrrm – poodles and retrievers maul and kill at a much lower rate than pitbulls…. sure you’re going to have your genetically odd dog in each breed more prone to aggression. But there’s no surprise as to why pitbulls are highest when it comes to biting, mauling, and killing.

Here’s some links on bite and maul difference:
http://pitbullmuckracker.blogspot.com/2010/10/is-bite-just-bite.html
http://bslforpitsmakessense.blogspot.com/2010/07/pit-bull-attacks-understand-danger.html

And here’s a link on genetic dog aggression:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/14810086/Heritability-of-Behavior-in-the-Abnormally-Aggressive-Dog-by-A-Semyonova

Please read it, though I’m sure you’ll only scan.
One of the links is by a pitbull owner!

Doesn’t matter if its unsightly they’re tenacious and aggressive animals bred for fighting! With the obvious capacity to jump fences…

Not to be mean but I kind of find it cruel to keep any animal alive when it’s obviously suffering from severe stress or mental disorder such as strong reactions to slight sound, touch ect.

This is why I find it more humane to euthanize most animals rescued from fighting, fur, laboratory conditions and practices.

Any dog, given the right set of circumstances, could be a fight, no specific breed alone should be pimpointed

Sabella,

I really liked your post. You said all that needs to be said.

As the investigation is still ongoing, I certainly can’t rule out sabatoge might be involved, but niether could I rule out that this incident is just one of those tragic, bizarre set of chain reactions that no one could anticipate. What I feel I can say with virtual certainty is that BF staffers are not involved if some nefarious act is found to have occurred. I have to ask…have you ever visited Best Friends? I would guess not, because if you’d been here, it would be so very obvious to you that each and every person working for BF-whether they are in animal care, volunteer support, administrative or maintenance-are all about the love and care for these creatures that have come to BF for care. You can’t go 15 minutes without seeing a staff member pet, stroke, cuddle with or in some other manor provide love and affection for whatever animal is around.

I have to wonder what your agenda is…you’ve spent an awful lot of time and energy posting on this site. You talk about it being more humane to euthanize these dogs. I am sorry for whatever it is in your life that makes you so ready to play God. Why do you have such a hatred of pitties? And please do not quote from your lame statistics again. Even the CDC no longer tracks bites/deaths by breed. Because it is nuture, not nature that is the most important thing with any dog.

If this is the case then people would be using pugs to fight at large. They’d be easier to take around, easier to hide, and less suspect.

Same goes for rotties or shepards and other powerful or non powerful breeds. Rotties are slower and can’t take as big a punch as a pitbull, and the same goes for the shepards. This is why they’re not fought as often.

If what you’re saying is true, then other dogs would be chosen to fight TO THE DEATH based solely on their willingness to and their performance to.

But of course not… there’s an obvious reason as to why pitbulls (presas / tosas / dogos) are chosen, they were bred to be strong, bred to act vicious, and bred to kill. Common sense.

This is why other dogs

Bravo!!! Concise expression of the sentiment shared by many.

Why don’t we all wait until Best Friends has had a chance to investigate the situation thoroughly before deciding who’s head should roll if, in fact, anyone’s should.

While it may be difficult to believe that 2 dogs could escape secure enclosures into the secure enclosure of a 3rd – I too have seen many “impossible” escapes by either very inventive canines, or canines who have been over stimulated.

Everyone at Best Friends loves each and every animal in their care. If they saw anything that indicates human involvement, they’d be happy to settle for the simple answer. Instead, they seem to be looking at the actual evidence and taking on the much more difficult task of trying to figure out how the “impossible” occured and why so they can take precautions to avoid it ever ocurring again.

Let’s give them time to sort through their grief & the facts. They’ve been open about letting the public know the incident occured. Let’s acknowledge that they’ll let us know the whole situation once they’ve been able to determine what that actually is – no conjecture, but reasonable fact. Despite the fact that we’ve all gotten used to INSTANT information, the delayed, research information tends to be much more accurate.

I am not playing god by sparing an animal any more unnecessary and unneeded stress. If you want to talk about playing god, then stop trying to make these dogs, excuse me “rehabilitate” this animals into something they were never intended to be, that sounds like playing god to me.

Any dog that severely hurt or kills another dog should be put down as theyr’e obviously a danger to other livening beings, regardless of species.

Seeing how you support these dogs who are shown to kill it just shows how absent minded and apathetic people can be to lives lost and hurt at the mouths of these animals.

I would rather “play god” and save more lives by putting down individual vicious dogs than allow them to hurt other living beings.

And if you take any form of medication or support the NICU, you’re just as guilty as me at playing god.

Speaking of nurture and nature, why is Isaboo tormenting and ripping the limbs off of other dogs when she was clearly given copious amounts of love?
http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/manhattan/rachael_rayging_pit_bull_ordeal_eWJO7IMFCfhpcmzigecKVM

And I never said I hated pitbulls. I personally think they’re visually beautiful dogs. And those that are decent in nature that have good homes? Wonderful!

But I DO dislike people promoting them as dogs that are:
• for everyone
• have the lowest bite records
• are just like any other dog

and who promote the stupid notion that giving a dog a lot of love and attention will automatically cure it of of any mentally genetic traits most of the breed has.

Those lies most advocates are spewing are doing more harm than good.

Also, here’s a journal that’s a semi-response to you when it comes to getting to knowing and loving a pitbull:
http://pitbullmuckracker.blogspot.com/2010/10/crock-man.html

It has an anecdote about a man and his pet croc, but it does relate to your statement.

Hopefully you will read it and the linked cases of people who truly wanted to give a pit an equal chance at being a good pet, only to find that the kindness of their dogs were sadly overruled by their instinctive and aggressive natures.

You can’t blame Vick and the fighting background after you’ve finished bragging about these stupid mutant dogs passing the “golden boy” test.

Why did the pit-nutters ever think it was a good idea to brag about these dogs? This isn’t the end of what we will be hearing about these dogs, (except for what is not reported).

I Agree with you Dj Slez. I also think that it is cruel and not practical to keep any suffering animal alive. There comes a point in animal rescue especially with so many animals being neglected, abused, etc. that organizations need to be “realistic”. We all do the best that we can but when you have perhaps 100 animals and 50 kennels, what do you do? CB

I have just emailed Aileen at BF. I am very angry at the Organization . Either double fencing HAS to be installed or many of us will stop donating money to BF and most of all will leave our bank/stock accounts to other animal rescues. This SHOULD not have happened. This is very bad PR for Best Friends and very bad for Pit-Bulls-one of my favorite breed of dogs. CB

Very well stated. I have a friend who just lost 2 Pittbulls because the Pitt they were fostering killed both of them. This is heartbreaking and I agree with you I don’t think they make good family pets, I don’t hate them, I think they are beautiful and probably very loving under the right circumstances.

Well said.

Turkey:
From everything I have heard now you are right, Tug broke out of his run and attacked and killed Beans, they found his head in the dirt. He then went after Denzel. It’s a shame that the truth isn’ t being told.

I just don’t understand why you would take a creature who spent most of its life suffering and force it to live just because you think it can have a second chance at life.

While it is admirable in a sense, it can also be quite cruel and needless when you have to spend so much time rehabilitating an animal that’s going to take a long while to rehabilitate. And this attack from Beans (who was a Staffordshire) and the two Vick dogs proves this notion.

I also like how you missed his point entirely as I’m sure you’ve missed mine. Bravo.

I’m sorry but a dog that kills another dog should not be placed in the homes of most people, especially common people….

Why are these dogs going scot free when they were trained for fighting and are obviously good at killing? Any other breed of dog who would literally rip the head off another dog should be put down and rightfully so…

I support you Turkey!

Sound logic though is sadly falling on deaf and ignorant ears it seems….

I agree on your patrol statement.

It never ceases to amaze me how much back biting and finger pointing there is in animal welfare. IMHO this only continues to make others think we’re all crazy and creates major hurdles in getting things done for the animals. We need to support each other. Shit happens. This is a tragedy and I’m sure that steps will be taken to ensure that it doesn’t happen again; however, it might. Nothing and no one is perfect.

Guess I’d better not let my pit be near my 3 children!!LOL!! What a fool you are if that is what you believe. In my experience of about 25 yrs around the breed (grew up with a pitty pack,and now own a couple), we have NEVER had a human aggressive pitbull. The are extremely afftectionate towards humans and that is why they are not good guard dogs. Some may be dog aggressive, yes I aggree with that, but not human! Human aggressiveness is a MAJOR flaw and even when the breed was used for fighting they were never aggressive towards the trainers and ring people or vets that had to fix them after the fight. The dogs that did show aggressiveness was “put down.” I guess you never heard that more children die at the hands of their own parents/family member than a pitty, or a 5 gal bucket is deadlier than a pitbull. You and your ignorance are whats wrong in society! Yes, the breed can be dog aggressive, but human aggressiveness is a major flaw and has always been unacceptable. I guess you never heard the term “Nanny dog”, did you??

You obviously have never been to Best Friends.
These dogs aren’t just living their life out, they are being socialized by just being there.
I’m a Behaviorist from the Chicago land area, and recently returned from BF.
Lucas never barked at me once! He whimpered when I walked by his enclosure, and I sat near by as I wrote in my journal. He lay down beside me (on his side of the fence) and chilled with me. He has been much more relaxed since arriving there.
The second chance BF give, is the chance to observe a normality they have never known. Even if that normality is at a rescue shelter, where they are ALL loved on!
I don’t know your reasonings for your comments, but as to BF, you are off the mark!

After reading this comment, I now know you have little understanding of actual canine behavior!
How do you determine a vicious dog?
How do you determine how a bite is to be considered.., just because the result is severe?
By the way, Spaniels have always been in the top percentile in biting. Obviously they will not inflict the damage a Am Staff, etc will.
Your history on these animals is quite off as well since these dogs were originally bread for work, then fighting.
Why don’t you pay a visit to the place(BF) you put down, THEN make a judgement!

I have seen dogs fight in the past and lost a beloved pet due to a pack of wild dogs roaming our neighborhood. (and by the way, they were not Pit Bulls) I find it unusal that this dog, once free, would seek out, after being freed, other animals to attack. The idea that he tore down his fence and then two other fences were torn down or damaged which included 3 separate kennels, is too far fetched for me to believe. My experience with dogs after being turned loss after being confined, is to run like the wind! I know the dedication that the employees of Best Friends have for the animals they care for. I’m so sorry for their loss and understand how saddened they must be over this occurring. Please stay opened minded about these events, and look to those who would gain by these events occurring. The staff I have met understand the problems of the animals they are dealing with. and would have went to the ends of the earth to have prevented this from happening. For those who seek to dis Best Friends and the job they do, go spend a week cleaning out dog runs, and humble yourself to a lesser being. You have a lot to learn.

Sorry, but I do not agree. BF has so far done nothing about the double fencing that was promised. There is no one there overnight. It has been 5 days and nothing has been done. Oh, and it probably will not be done as far as the fencing is concerned because dear, sweet, Faith thinks double fencing is “unsightly.” BF also does not want to put up barriers because it block the visitors from seeing the animals. If you cannot see the animals, you may not donate the big bucks that they get. “Shit happens.” Tell that to Beans. He was ripped apart, something BF does not want to say. Yes, animal help should work together but when you are wrong, you are wrong.

WOW, you are so off it’s become laughable!
Whens the last time you watched canine dynamics.., such as a wolf pack.
Are Wolf packs killing each other to get them to join a pack!? NO!
They are family units with a rare occasion of outside membership.
They often kill lone wolves, or other pack members. Wolves cull their numbers at a rate of 20% a year.
You need to broaden your reading material.

I completely agree with you Mike! DJ Slez – Best Friends is a haven for so many animals! Even if they live out their days at the sanctuary, they are given food, medical attention, love, and their own space. Every animal deserve a second chance at life, especially a life that was robbed from them. Lucas is a sweet heart! He may never be able to live in a normal house with other dogs, but that doesnt mean he should be killed. You cannot exterminate all pit bulls because of some with bad behavior.

Who are these “many of us” you threaten will stop donating if Best Friends doesn’t follow YOUR mandates? Certainly what you do with your own money is is your business, but try to refrain from speaking for the “many”. It just wreaks of arrogance and misinformation.

I am deeply saddened to hear of this tragic event, and want to express my condolences.

I have some question. First, why was Beans not named in the post? Referring to Tug and Denzel by name, but only referring to Beans as “one of the dogs” and “the first dog” seemed strange and even awkward, and felt very disrespect of him, especially since he was the one who didn’t make it.

Second, is there no one on duty at all overnight? If not, why? It would seem that this should be a major priority.

There was someone that was supposed to watch the sanctuary at night but he was let go a while ago. Lack of funds was the reason given. I guess $43 million does not stretch for a security guard. But even if it did, he only drove around once or twice a night. So far, five days after the incident, there is still no double fencing or a security guard. In true BF fashion, they are hoping that this will all go away and be forgotten before they have to spend some of their hard earned money.

What is the name of the dog who died?

Beans

Dj Slez you have not a F—- clue as to what you are talking about. Do you know how many BAD OWNERS backyard breed these dogs? There are WAY more pits in the world than alot of other breeds of dogs WHICH EXPLAINS THE HIGHER PERCENTAGE OF BITES WITH PITS. THERE ARE MORE OF THEM……….THIS IS A FACT. I work at a large Pet Supply retailer and more people come into my store with bandages on fingers, hands and arms from SMALL DOGS than large breed dogs. THE SINGLE BITE OF A SMALL DOG IS NOT REPORTED TO ANIMAL CONTROL AGENCIES IF IT WERE WE WOULD BE BANNING CHIHUAHUA’S, COCKERS (YES SEVERAL CUSTOMERS WITH GROUCHY COCKERS), MIN PINS, YORKIES, AND THE LIST GOES ON.

People like you give a BAD MESSAGE FOR ALL DOGS BECAUSE IF YOU BAD MOUTH ONE “DOG” YOU BAD MOUTH ALL “DOGS”.

PUT SOME DUCT TAPE OVER YOUR MOUTH AND GROW UP.

We like to think we know Rachel Ray but we do not and without being in her home and watching how the “pack” interacts it is impossible to say what is going on. I DO KNOW THAT IF YOU EXPECT A FIGHT YOU MOST LIKELY WILL GET A FIGHT. Anytime that my dogs snap at each other it is always because I WAS NOT PAYING ATTENTION, DID NOT FOLLOW COMMON SENSE DOG RULES ETC. WAS THE OTHER DOG PULLING AT GROWLING AT THE END OF THEIR LEASH? VERY COMMON WHERE I LIVE. I teach my 4 dogs all 260lbs to walk on by and ignore bad doggie behavior. If Rachel’s pit is an only dog who “runs” the show and is allowed to do what she wants with no rules boundaries and limitations than RACHEL RAY set her dog up to be the way she is. It does not matter that it was a pitbull because the Chi’s, min pins, cockers that are treated this same way are the ones that bite their owners.

This is not the first time tragedy has struck BF. Nothing is being done to correct what happened this past weekend. Knowone is their at night to be sure these animals are safe at night!!! They are left alone to basically fend for themselves, if an emergency arises “too bad” it can wait till morning. This is not the way to treat these animals, be it dogs, cats, pigs, horses, rabbits (who by the way their was a serious problem with not long ago.) It’s time for a closer look at what goes on here and for changes to be made. Shame on all who have allowed this to happen. I hope they have a lot of sleepless nights and see Poor Beans in their dreams.

I don’t know what you are talking about. There has never been a caretaker during the night there. What shelter has someone watching the animals overnight? There is plenty of double fencing at Dogtown! And there were barriers up when the Vicktory dogs arrived, they were secluded from the public and every run had barriers hanging for the dogs protection. Really Fluffysmom….get it right before you post anything.

I was there when the Vick pits came and there was NO barriers. I could ride by in my car, and did, to see them. Maybe you need to get your facts straight Jmoyer4515. Why have all the Vick pits been moved to the Lodges with no double fencing and no barriers? I was under the impression that the Vick pits were to have supervision 24/7. Maybe if they did have that, this would not have happened. What department do you work in Jmoyer4515?

I was there when the Vick pits came and there was no barriers. I could ride by in my car, and did to see them. Maybe you need to get your facts straight Jmoyer4515. If there was no night watchman, please explain to Brian what he was doing there. Tell me, Jmoyer4515, what department do you work in and how much are you getting paid to write these “factual posts?”

You keep spreading falsehoods, or incomplete facts to argue your AGENDA DJ.
Take a breath, you need to research and actually work hands on with all breeds before you pass judgement on anything. Especially passing judgement on a place you never been to, about people and dogs you have not met. Not too smart!
How do you know they jumped the fence?
How do you know anything that happened since no one was witness to the incident.

The staff at BF are doing hard work on little money. They work with these dogs in many capacities, and most won’t be adopted.., but live their lives out in peace.
What’s your problem with that?
Sometimes things happen and it turns tragic. We learn from our mistakes, or mishaps, and move forward to correct them.
Unfortunately Beans, being dog aggressive may have been over stimulated by the events at hand, and it triggered a response.
I’ll agree that certain breeds are not for all people, but thats up to the parties involved to make the right decisions.
Beans was making big improvements as ALL the dogs that stay there.
This was a accident. Get over yourself, because you lack of canine behavior knowledge is showing you to be misinformed greatly!
You need to be in a different line of work if you think a dog is simply imprinted, and no longer any worth, because that is not only a flaw in your canine knowledge, but in life too.

WOW, mean spirited much…, maybe you’ll be hearing those thoughts in your sleep for the rest of your life!
Geez, it was an accident people!
Let me know how it is to live in your glass house !

And this is whyn you haven’t a clue as to what you are talking about, and lay your experience at the feet of a friend.Yea, right!
Please troll somewhere else, anybody with half a brain knows you are full of it!

no the dog dug under the fencing in the run.

Come on…if you rode by you saw the red hanging barriers there with the Vick Dogs. If you work here, maybe it is time for you to find a new job if you don’t support their cause.

Many no longer support “their cause” and the numbers are growing by the hour. I was under the impression that employees were told not to post anymore and to just let this die down. How then are you supporting their cause?

Okay, folks, I do work at BF. Here are the facts: When the V pits first arrived, they lived at Amra’s (Dogtown Heights). They were secluded from the public. Staff, like Ed Fritz and others, slept with the dogs, so that they were supervised 24/7. This went on for several weeks. Then it was decided it was best to “assimilate” the dogs. Hence, most of the dogs were moved to the Lodges. Jmoyer, I’m afraid you have your facts wrong when you say there are barriers separating V pits from other dogs. They are in “normal” (i.e. no barriers, no double fencing) runs, just like the other Lodge dogs. They have red collars, which means volunteers can not walk them or sit with them or give them treats. There are no signs on their runs indicating they are V dogs. We would not want to label them V dogs as then volunteers would constantly want to take pictures of them (which happened in the case of the dog Ellen. It seems every two minutes we had volunteers wanting to take pictures of the famous Ellen. Really interfered with caregiver jobs!) So there you have it, folks. P,S. There are two runs at the Lodges that are double fenced. For those of you who know the pittie Ogy, he lives in one of them.

Thank you for your honesty. BFstaffer.

I am very confused by Patty H’s new blog. She mentions Beans chewing his way out of his run, but no mention of Tug or Denzel chewing out of their runs. Is anyone else confused by Patty’s blog?

Thank you Mike for your eloquent post. You are right on the mark.

Just another example of the “expert” care at “Dog town”… aka “Collectors with money”.

Poor dogs.

With nearly 20 grand coming with each dog, you’d think they could come up with a decent way to contain their bulldogs. Try a tether, more humane and safer.

I have heard alot of BS in my life but what you just posted tops it all. When will you people learn to tell the truth?? This has gone on since the beginning when you got the Vick dogs. How about telling what has really happened?? Innovative idea isn’t it? Please don’t keep trying to appease everyone. Some of us know better and all your protests and so called excuses will not cut it anymore. “ASSIMITLATE”, is this a Star Wars agenda you have. Give it a break, try telling the truth. You couldn’t even tell the truth about how all of this happened. A poor lonely dog named Beans took the brunt of your neglect, how do you people live with yourselves, hope you get a few more million dollars and stick it up your miserable butts.

Jmoyer said there were barriers up when they first got to BF. She didn’t say there are barriers up now.

I believe it was 20 grand total – not for each dog.

Mary S, Patty Hegwood’s blog is a series of outright lies. She thinks that you and the rest of us are too stupid to understand that.

no, it was $20k each for the sanctuary dogs and $5k each for dogs that could be more readily rehomed. A total of about $950k

Beans must of chewed his way out then chewed out Denzel first and that mad Tug mad, so when Beans chewed him out,Tug killed him. Then Denzel got mad at Tug and they got into a fight. It had to be that way because everyone knows pitbulls do not attack unless provoked. P.S. Just because people think pitbulls should be better controled does not make them pit “haters”.

It was $20K for each dog.

yes. Writing these incomplete blogs just makes the situation worse. THREE dogs all chewing their way out/into kennels on the same night?

Can I just ask, does anyone know if Bean was actually “ripped apart”….or was it more of neck wounds and suffocation? =( I just need to know, knew him and its hard to explain. Know Tug too, I just don’t see him fighting in that way =/

Its hard to know what to believe anymore. I do know that Beans did have a habit of breaking out and even chewing through fencing (which I have known other dogs to do), when it stormed. But as far as I know the weather was fair, and caregivers were very diligent about moving Beans inside the building to an even more secure run when there was even the chance of thunder. I don’t think he had a problem otherwise. But you’re right, it does sound more likely that Tug broke out and in of both. Tug is dog intolerant, but he has socialized with some very neutral dogs in the past. So I really don’t know what to believe. Perhaps the truth is being skewed a bit to protect Tug and the other V dogs. Accidents happen and this should not change the outcome of rehabing these dogs.

MANY of the V dogs, and other former fighting groups of dog have shown to be able to live with other dogs without incidence. Tug had socialized with other dogs in the past. It was just the siutation (whatever it really was) and the combination of dogs involved. Please stop posting your completely negative comments. This is not about your thoughts in pit bulls, it is about Beans. Would you have an uproar if the same thing happened with other breeds, because I have know a similar case in which no pit bulls were involved. The majority of us are just looking for the truth. Having known all three dogs I just want to find out the truth and not have to go through your negative comments.

I knew all three dogs and I hate to think of the worse but some of the comments have things running through my mind. Was Beans actually “ripped apart”?…I keep hearing they found his head in the sand, but I find it hard to believe that a dog fight caused the head to be severed. I know this is a little morbid and graphic…but I just want to know the truth =(

My comments are not completely negative.

This whole situation could have been avoided if the facility had paid attentions and provided more secure enclosures for their more powerful breeds that they KNOW were bred, and are prone to fight! It’s just common sense! And because of their negligence one dog is dead and two more are injured.

And I stand by what I said, any dog, I don’t care if it was mine, someone else’s, a corgi or a pit, but any dog that severely bites, mauls, or kills another living being should be put down to protect other people and animals. Especially when this animal was trained and bred to fight.

The thing is, other breeds don’t rip the heads off of other dogs. Other breeds don’t have the highest kill rate than any other dog:
http://pitbullmuckracker.blogspot.com/2010/10/dog-breed-temperments.html
Other breeds were not bred for fighting, dog aggression, and other such things. And other breeds generally don’t require a break stick, crowbar, gun, or other unusual means of detaching them from a fight.

Seeing how this deals entirely with pitbulls, a powerful breed with deadly power, I think I have a right to say whatever I want to bout that breed within the context that applies to this story.

And you’re acting as though I’m spreading lies when I’m not. It’s not as though I’m pulling information out of my rear. I’ve done my own extensive research and have come to the logical conclusion that pitbulls are dangerous than most others breeds various and well documented reasons reasons.

When I was a bit younger I believed that pitbulls were just like any other dog, and reading through my comments to see my experiences with some will back up this statement.

I saw no reason to hate an animal for being what it was or what it looked like and thus wanted to believe that all pitbulls were inherently good, easily trainable, and docile creatures. After all, I’m a person who loves crocodiles, rats, hogs, and many other “ugly / pest” animals.

But after I did some research on how these dogs have a higher rate at killing people they KNOW, owners, babes, rescuers, tots. It was obviously clear that A. the wrong people are owning these dogs, and B. these dogs should not generally be owned by most of the populous.

If you want a pitbull, fine, would I like a pitbull sure! But I do NOT want to deal with the many medical, mental, and social problems these dogs have been shown to have. A dog that numbers around 5mil in the US causing the most bites, mauls, and death cases? That’s not a family pet… OR and “dog for everyone.”

What happened to Beans is horrible… and could have easily been prevented.
Knowing the money power of the Vick dogs and the advice from ground inspection, providing accurate fencing and guard patrol for the more powerful and dog aggressive breeds could have been done… easily….

I still think this is wrong, but I will double check. I know they were promised a certain amount of money, but didn’t get it.

It depends on whether you would call being decapitated “ripped apart.” This was not “neck wounds and suffocation.”

I’ve been keeping a close eye on this story and these comments since this incident happened and I have a few things to say.
Everybody wants to lay blame. It’s so easy to blame someone. I’m sure there’s someone we can blame. BF for not having the proper fencing or not listening to the caregivers. A particular caregiver for possibly not locking a gate. Beans for going crazy when/if he saw a deer. Tug for being a Vick dog and having been conditioned to fight and likely killing Beans. The list goes on. Did the powers that be at BF deny double fencing because of money? Or whatever. Possibly. Unfortunately, many organizations don’t listen to their employees until something tragic like this happens. No person or organization is perfect and I think people tend to forget that. BF is like any other organization out there. Not everone who works there, or who has worked there, is happy with the way things are run (obviously, since we seem to have a former employee or two constantly trying to tear them down). I’m sure there is no conspiracy and that BF never purposely decided to not listen to what anyone says to be evil or stingy with their money. They do the best they can and hopefully will do better now that this tragedy has happened. And for the record, I know Beans. I have volunteered at the sanctary several times, have spent time with Beans and his caregivers who loved him. This was devastating news and I still cry about it. Asking questions is one thing, trying to tear down an organization that has done so much good, is another.
The whole pitbull thing is another story. Everyone has their feelings on pitbulls and what should be done. All I know is what I have experienced myself, and most of this was from spending time with these dogs while at the sanctuary. They are some of the most loving dogs I have ever come across. The Vick dogs were victimized and conditioned to fight by an evil person who has never once shown any remorse. BF is one of the few organizations out there who stepped up to help these dogs. They didn’t just do it for show or money. If that were the case these dogs wouldn’t be getting the kind of care they’ve been getting. They don’t languish at the sanctuary. They are worked with and many have been adopted out to loving, responsible homes. What a shame to kill a dog like Cherry who has gone from being so scared he had to be carried around to living in a home with ANOTHER dog. Or to kill some of the other Vick dogs who have gone on to become therapy dogs.
BF has been very transparent about this incident, making a statement as soon as possible. This incident didn’t even happen a week ago. They are still speculating themselves as to what happened. And to expect them to take care of the fencing, or institute a night patrol this quickly is expecting too much. I am sure they are working on getting all of this into place as soon as possible. Sitting behind your computer and constantly criticizing (as an anonymous person, no less. At least have the guts to sign your name) helps no one.

Beans was absolutely not ripped apart that is bad information. There is no one to blame here, everyone and I do mean everyone at Best Friends is heartbroken over this unfortunate event. Learning from mistakes is part of every day life and if there were mistakes made I have no doubt they will be recognized and resolved in the best way possible.

Thank you. There are many comments on Patti’s blog that Beans was decapitated. I don’t know where they are getting this information.

If that is the case allaboutanimals, then let someone who has no agenda either way, see the body. Maybe a vet from Page or St George. Yea, like that will happen.

Plenty of people know this is not so. Where on earth are you getting your info? Must not be a very reliable one. RIP Beans!!

@RIP Beans: There were some wounds, but Beans was NOT ripped to pieces and his head was attached to his body when I saw him Sunday morning. Anybody who claims he was decapitated is either lying with an agenda or has bad information and doesn’t care about the truth. You can rest easy on that matter, and thank you for caring about Beans and Tug (and Denzel I assume). The staff and everybody else who knew any of these three dogs are horrified by what happened and in shock and mourning. You obviously also care about the actual dogs, not about the chance to attack Best Friends.
@Fluffysmom and all the others who hate Best Friends and are doing their best to destroy us (you know that if you succeeded, which you won’t, that all the animals here would be destroyed as well, having nowhere else to go, right???!!):
I know the truth, I saw Beans that morning, and since Best Friends doesn’t know who I am on this post, don’t bother saying I’m trying to keep my job. I actually know what I’m talking about, as opposed to most of the posters on here. Unless you saw him yourself, in other words, which I did and you obviously didn’t, then stop passing on lies and rumors. People who are spreading these horrific lies on here definitely have an anti Best Friends agenda and the truth makes no difference to them in their ultimate agenda to hurt Best Friends. And if it matters to you, which it obviously doesn’t, your lies make it that much harder for those of us who actually knew and loved Beans to deal with his passing. Not like you care.

wow.
Just to ensure I wasn’t perhaps misinterpreting your statements or your perceptions,
I read both blog posts you recommended 2 try 2 determine your legitimate stance in reference to this particular issue.
I’m going to play Devil’s Advocate here for a moment, so please do bear with me as I’ve borne with your comments:.
I must admit I find a number of flaws in your logic, as well as your claim that you report on both “the good & the bad” about PitBulls, b/c your body of work seems to be rather one-sided at best.
Merely out of curiosity’s sake, what are your own legitimate personal experiences with this breed of dog?
I ask this because I myself have never owned a PitBull specifically, but I have owned and rehabilitated dogs you’ve referred to & referenced as also being highly dangerous and predisposed toward severe and possibly deathly maulings of humans.
Despite those dogs’ previously aggressive behaviors, I never experienced those issues with them – but I digress, sorry.

I’m all for Freedom of Speech and respecting another’s opinion, but I see no mention of any qualifications, education, life-time experience, what have you that give you the credibility to make such types of blanket statements, other than your claim that you’ve extensively ‘researched’ said issues, or words to that effect.

Food for thought and too, I’d just like to state for the record,
Hitler also claimed to have done extensive research in support of his ‘theories’ about alledged genetic inferiority of Jewish people everywhere;
- did this claim make him more trustworthy?
- did it expel any inherent and hidden bias in his work?
- did it give him a mantle of authority that people of lesser intelligence, character,
education or malleability might espouse said theories?

I would highly urge each person who reads your blogs (and all such subjective commentary for that matter) to rely more heavily upon their own logic and inductive thought processes that to blindly ingest the particular fare you’re offering in guise of “legitimate research”; because as much as I hate to say this,
you’re presenting yourself as a source of factual research and objective summary,

but the fact remains
You have a highly visible and inherent bias yourself, quite evident in your speech, your blog postings, your ‘take’ shall we say for lack of a better word?
on everything you’ve come across.
The language you repeatedly use quite openly portrays that you are not an objective person in this matter by any means, and are in fact inherently predisposed Against Pitbulls;
therefore your credibility in this matter is suspect.
I must also add that I find your statements to the previous poster to be condescending at best, especially when you open with the claim:
“I’m not passing biased judgment”
because with all honesty,
that is exactly what you are doing, to be fairly blunt about it,
you are In Fact passing a Biased Judgement which is based upon a personal predisposition against a particular breed, while concurrently offering yourself as an Objective Researcher – a misnomer I’m sure.

I might throw your own words back at You:
“Educate YOURSELF before you start spreading unneeded lies…”

Again, merely playing Devil’s Advocate, especially as you portray yourself to be someone who is interested in Enlightened Education;
or was that simply a disclaimer on your part?

Thank you for this post. I never once believed that Beans was decapitated. I’m so, so sorry for the loss of Beans. He was an awesome dog.

Really puzzled as to why, with such high profile dog aggressive dogs at BF, it takes a tragedy like this to get secure fencing & security. It seems to me that should have been a given as soon as the Vick dogs arrived.

Solidarity anyone?

Excellent! Death to all the little shit-eater dogs (for being dog aggressive…and usually human aggressive).