I like to pass these news stories on because I think it’s important to take note that Amstaffs suffer the same injustices as Pitbulls, which absolutely enrages me. Read on…

GRANGEVILLE – Butch, the American Staffordshire terrier who has been on doggie death row in Craigmont since September, is appealing for his life to the Idaho Supreme Court. Read the rest of this entry »

Unfortunately, a Zurich court has dismissed an appeal that allows bully breeds to live. We will discuss breed legislation, specifically in the US later on, but thought this was news worthy to pass on, for now.

Fighting dogs have been permanently banned in the canton of Zurich after the Federal Court in Lausanne dismissed an appeal from three canine associations.

They argued that not all dogs of the same breed are dangerous but the court said statistics could not be trusted and sited a similar law in the Canton of Valais which banned 12 dangerous breeds in 2007.

The law, introduced in Zurich at the start of the year after a vote in November 2008, prevents the selling and breeding of four breeds of dog including the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Bull Terrier.

Foreign owners of these breeds must keep their animals muzzled and on a leash when they are travelling in the canton of Zurich.

Thanks to World Radio Switzerland.

One of my favorite artists is Christine J. Head, not only because she is a fantastic artist, but because her prints have a purpose. She donates the majority of her proceeds to canine rescue organizations and her art often depicts anti-breed legislation messages, featuring bully breeds. We’ll begin a new series showcasing Christine’s art and we’ll kick it off with a little info about the artist!

Christine J. Head’s sought-after, limited edition prints and posters have helped numerous rescues raise much needed funds.

Initially, Christine did “hands-on” rescue work, housing several foster dogs and going through the painstaking process of finding the right permanent home for each of these dogs who already found a permanent place in her heart. Eventually, her interests in the creative arts and canine needs combined and she discovered the best way to apply her talents to raise money and awareness  for animal rescue.

Christine started The Puppy Sketches in 1999 and has been contributing to rescue organizations ever since by creating original and limited edition posters. Originally, her beautiful portraits of dogs in need of urgent medical care and adoption accompanied by the dog’s poignant story, raised thousands of dollars for individual rescues.

Currently, Christine’s focus is on highly stylized vintage/Art Nouveau-style posters prints that raise money for multiple breed rescues. These posters are sold almost exclusively through rescue organizations.

Some notable animal lovers and celebrities who collect her work include actresses Jorja Fox and Mary Steenburgen, and Comedienne Elayne Boosler.

Artist info courtesy of Pit Bull Rescue Central.

Is an American Staffordshire Terrier for you? Quite possibly, since they are an extremely versatile and adaptable animal, but it really depends on what you are looking for in a companion.

If you:
• Are moderately or very active, or are able to make sure your dog gets enough excercise, an Amstaff may be for you.
• Want a dog who looks imposing, is fairly large, but very muscular and powerful, an Amstaff may be for you.
• Don’t mind dogs who look like Pit Bulls, but more laid-back, mellow and temperamentally sound, an Amstaff may be for  you.
• Want a dog who is recognized in show circles and by the American Kennel Club, an Amstaff may be for you.
• Don’t want to deal with a high maintenance coat on your dog, an Amstaff may be for you.

You should seriously consider another breed if you:
• Don’t want to deal with legal repercussions, future breed bans, trouble getting homeowner’s insurance or a chance of lawsuits.
• Don’t want to invest additional time and supervision to prevent animal aggression toward other dogs.
• Aren’t interested in a dog with a stubborn streak who will need to be socialized from puppy-hood.
• Are unable to provide enough stimulation for your dog to prevent destructiveness when bored.
• Don’t want to pay much attention to finding proper food to alleviate common food allergies.

In my experience, when the owner puts the time and effort into their Amstaff, this can be an incredible breed to own. Their loyalty and friendship is second to none and they will fight to the death to protect those they love. The pros are greater than the cons, in my opinion.