"Laila"- A Holiday Miracle

3"x5" Acrylic on wooden plaque.

Laila (formerly Sheba) came from the NY ACC. She was on the euth list for early december when a Lovely lady named Michelle was able to step up and pull her. At the time it was believed that the, then "Sheba" had recently given birth... and what a horror that she should go through the miracle of life only to be put down, due to over-population and lack of space, being about 4 years old and *gasp* because she is a pit-bull type dog. Thankfully she was saved from death row!!! Now fast forward to Christmas being spent in a loving home, how ever could Miss Laila show her gratitude you ask?!

Well.... the day after Christmas "Laila" had a little surprise of her own to share with the world.... She had actually not recently given birth she was pregnant and the day after christmas was her due date!!! Here is the update Michelle shared with everyone following this sweet pea's story:

"She didn't behave differently yesterday morning. she was reluctant to go outside (not unusual-- i think her previous captor kept her outside all the time so she is afraid of being left there.) also remember that ii was under the working assumption that she had puppies so the thought the she had buns in the oven didn't cross my mind. i had a hunch something was going on but couldn't put my finger on it.

i was running out early yesterday morning to stop in on clients and get home before the weather turned ugly. i woke up late and ran through my morning routine with everyone as quickly as possible. i cycled everyone into the yard, dished out breakfast and snacks and was ready to jet. i stopped to watch the weather report and when that was over and started to leave, i heard a squeal....

i thought it was Laila, that she had gotten hurt or something so i ran to check on her...and then...i saw...a blue body hanging out her mouth!! pink feet, toes stretched out! it was 6:30am, i thought, ok Laila, where did you get the rat from? then...she spit her out and started licking her...and i came to my senses...oh crap. THAT is a puppy. HER puppy.

i got into my car (because, when in shock, it is important to operate a motor vehicle as quickly as possible.) and drove to the gas station, dialing vet #1, left a message and called my girlfriend who had some experience with birthing mommas. i got some guidance from her and ultimately, my vet, and then FLEW to westchester to see my clients. by the time i had returned home, she had 4 more. the 5th one showed up within the hour and then the action stopped.

truly, she didn't need my overprotective butt around her at all. she likes having me around, loves the mash i've been making her. she eats 4 times a day and, i'm happy to say, as of tonight, all of the pups seem have have gained an average of 2 oz a piece. one of the boys is flirting with the one pound mark (he's the heaviest) and one of the girls is around 13oz (i think she's the smallest). they're all about the same size, eating well.

i can hardly believe they're here. they are very beautiful ..."

Laila had given birth to an amazing 6 beautiful babies... so what the people didn't realize that when they were fighting to save this love-bugs life, that in fact there were 7 on the line!!!!! Thank you to everyone who cross-posted her story to help bring this holiday miracle to fruition! &hearts

Click on her picture to see the original listing on the Urgent Part 2's facebook page:


Proud yet tired momma:

#30 "Olivia"

3"x3" acrylic on wooden plaque.

I have Christmas Puppy Fever. There I said it, it's true. while I have been relentlessly hinting that I want to add a baby girl to our pack to my husband... he was adamant about a big "NO"... Awe Santa please bring me a little girl. LOL I showed him Little Miss Olivia's photo from Pibbles & More Animal Rescue.... So he says to me. Look if you truly want another puppy we need to discuss this now before Pikey is 2 years old (He'll be 2 in May). I said as much as I'd truly want a little girl to add to our mix, I know it's a crazy life change and it's not one I am sure I want right now. I'd really WANT one, however the adult in me knows it's not what we really need. (look at me trying to convince myself, hahahaha)

Truth is besides the 2-3 times a night to get up with said puppy so she learns to go potty outside... and the acclimating her to our boys... all of them, Stan and Pikey and our 2 cats Goku and Masood... Teaching her to be a little lady when it comes to... well everything. I enjoy my time to myself... and Pikey is now old enough that I don't have to watch him every waking second to make sure he isn't chewing something he shouldn't... and my heart has stopped on more than 1 occasion at the thought of one of them being hurt... then there are the emergency trips to the vet for little and big things... Am I trying to give myself a heart attack by adding another factor in the mix! LOL I'd love to, but I know it's not the time... Having Domino (our foster in october) gave us a taste of what a 3 dog household would be like, and it was a bit crazy. I have to hand it to all you Multiple (more than 2 ) dog households! You are truly brave, blessed and loved!

So enough about my ranting and raving... Let's meet Olivia! She's a 12 week old red nose pittie who is in search of her forever home! Her and her brother Peanut are both available for adoption through Pibbles & More Animal rescue! Click on her picture below to go to their album. You can also see their Petfinder links here:
Olivia &hearts
Peanut &hearts

#29 "Trinity"

4x4 acrylic on wooden plaque.


SHE IS ON URGENT!!!! Poor thing has til Wednesday to be adopted :(

***UPDATE***** Trinity was pulled at the last minute by Ruff House Rescue!!!!

I saw Trinity's picture as a courtesy post on Sweet Bark PitBull Rescue's wall. She is at the AC&C in NYC here's what is written under her picture:

***
"Trinity came into the shelter on 12/3/10 as a stray. The shelter feels she is around a year old and weighs in at 41 pounds. She is pretty small and with her interesting facial mask she looks like a puzzle piece. She was a bit nervous on intake but received a “Mild” on her shelter exam. The photographer said she was a very good model and noted Trinity loves treats. She is still very young and will need plenty of exercise and some training. The family that gets this beauty will always have a interesting ice breaker when she is around. Her face looks looks like a bully breed puzzle – she will be the talk of the town!

AC&C — Brooklyn Animal Care Center
2336 Linden Boulevard
Brooklyn, NY 11208
718-272-7201

Shelter Hours: 8:00am to 8:00pm, 7 Days a Week
Adoption Hours: Noon to 7:00pm, 7 Days a Week
Closed on All Holidays"******

Click on her picture to see other photos:

#28 "Magnus"---> ADOPTED!!!

5x5 acrylic on wooden plaque

I saw Magnus on the Bergen County Animal Shelter's page. There really isn't much written about him, other than his name. However since he is there, he is in need of a home. He was featured for a post to not forget about the critters in need this holiday season.
Here is Magnus' petfinder page &hearts

In fact to bring it one step further, there are many holiday "drives" raising items in need for your local shelters. Check out these for instance:

Loyalty Tattoo "Tattoos for Tails" event

Princess Buttercup's Winter Wonderland Supply & Toy Drive

It doesn't even need to be an organized event, just bring some donations down to your local shelter, as it will be much appreciated.

Also consider donating to your favorite Rescue(s) as well... this time of year the funds get low but the needs are still there.

Click below to go See Magnus and other animals in need of furever homes at the Bergen County Animal Shelter:

#27 "Romeo"

5x5 acrylic on wooden plaque.

I first laid eyes on "Romeo" through the Bully Breed Rescue facebook page. This poor guy has found himself homeless right before the holidays...His "family" didn't want him anymore now he is at the King George Animal control in King George, VA. This is what they had to say about Romeo:

***"Control #10-25-10-1 Pit/Terrier mix, male, adult, surrender. Hi, my name is "Romeo". I am sweet and fun, I love to play fetch with the tennis ball, I will bring it right back to you and drop it at your feet, if it's not close enough and you tell me "closer" I will nudge it with my nose until it is just where you want it. My owner didn't want me anymore. They have new kids and said I wasn't doing well with them. I wasn't getting any attention anymore and was just trying to let them know I was still there. I know how to sit and speak for a treat. I am going to need someone special to be my new friend. Please don't forget about me. I need a new home right away."***

***"If you need to know more about any of these animals, please contact Vicki at vl tate@hotmail.com

King George Animal Control is located at 11377 Citizens’ Way, King George, VA 22485. King George Animal Control is open 10-1 Monday, Friday, or Saturday; 10-3 Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday; closed Holidays and Sundays. All pulls must occur during these times."***

Click on Romeo to go read more information on this cute love bug:

#26- Flora

3x5 acrylic on wooden plaque.

*** Update Poor Flora is spending eternity at the Rainbow Bridge, at least she no longer will have to deal with the lack of compassion that has become humanity. I hope for a day when shelters and rescues are no longer needed.......****

I saw Flora on the Philly Urgent's Facebook Page. The page lists animals at the Philadelphia animal control shelter who need adoption/ foster care.
ACCT is located at 111 W Hunting Park Ave, Philly and is open 9am-6pm every day.
Email nsmith@pspca.org, jsweeney@pspca.org for more information on Flora.

This is what is written under her picture:
***"Hi, I'm FLORA(A11803477).. I was brought here by the police because I didn't have a home. I'm about 3-5 years old and I'm a Pit Terrier mix. I'm all white and I have a really neat brindle colored patch over my right eye. I'm not really crazy about living in the shelter, although I tend to take most things in stride. I'm totally out of that puppy phase.. I'm not very jumpy or hyperactive, but I do enjoy being outside and having the opportunity to spend time with people. At first, I'm kind of shy, but if you give some treats and some pets, I open up and feel much more comfortable. I am looking for someone who will rescue me from the shelter, take me into their family and teach me how to be a great addition to the family. I am super treat motivated, so I'd be a great candidate for some obedience training. I've never really had the opportunity to be around too many other dogs, so if you have a dog at home, please bring him or her up to meet me so that we can make sure we all get along just fine. I don't really mind cats too much either, so I could probably live with them. If you're looking for a pretty, easy going, trainable, friendly dog, then I'm your girl. Please come to ACCT today and meet me!!! Email helpphilaanimals@gmail.com for more information."***

#25 "Marshmellow"

4x4 Acrylic on wooden plaque

I know, but there's already been another pup named "Marshmellow"... But if you can't tell I am a sucker for Blues.


This particular dog named after one of my favorite s'mores fixin's is another of Sweet Bark Pitbull Rescue's dogs

This is what they had to say about him:
***"This is Marshmallow! (Formerly Ducati)

Marshmallow's story is lengthy and sad, but we don't want to focus on that. What we think everyone needs to know is what a sweet guy he is! He just wants someone to love him! He's very obedient and just wants to please. We were told he's not good with cats, but so far he's doing fine with them. He's fine with other dogs, but not really interested in playing much. He likes kids and is very gentle. He's a young boy, neutered and UTD with vaccines.

If you're interested in meeting this handsome guy or want more info please e-mail us at sweetbarkpitbullrescue@gmail.com"***

I like that, not focusing on his past, just a new fresh start to his future. What a handsome man, I tell you if I was independently wealthy and had the acreage, I'd see how to make my own sanctuary for these loves in need of a gentle caring home.

click on his picture to go to his facebook album:

#24- Fendi

5x5 acrylic on wooden plaque

I first heard about Fendi through Bully Breed Rescue. How she still is in need of a furever home is beyond me! Such a sweet doll! here's what they have to say about this darling:

***"Fendi is an tiny little girl who is looking for a forever home! Fendi is around 2 yrs old, UTD on her shots, spayed, and weighs 39lbs!!
She is such a sweet girl, and not to mention adorable!! Pictures do not do her justice!! Fendi has such a wonderful tempermant. She is very tolerant, and eager to please! Fendi would do great in a home with children! She is gentle, but full of energy and loves life! Fendi is one of the coolest dogs I have ever met. She loves to play tug of war, and will hold on while you spin her in circles in air.Fendi is happy cuddling in your lap and giving kisses, or playing with a toy!

If you are interested in this dog, please contact Heidi at bbrct@yahoo.com. Adoption application, references, and home visit required.Adoption fee is $200."****

Click on below to go see other pictures of this lovely gal:

#23- "Baby"

5x5 acrylic on wooden plaque.

I heard about "Baby" from a lovely lady, Christine, who does work with the Dakoda Love Rescue. I had recently painted one of the other Dakoda Love dogs, Roy. Christine is the eye behind the camera for these two cuties! She had briefly told me a little about "Baby" saying that she is currently being boarded pretty close to where I live. She is a sweetie pie, however she needs to be the only dog in the house, so it seems she's been in boarding for a long time. Here's hoping that someone soon will step up and give this beautiful baby doll a home!

Here is the excerpt from Facebook under her picture:

***"BABY IS WONDERFUL AND NEEDS A HOME ASAP!

see VIDEOS & PICS OF our BABY, SWEET GIRL SAVED FROM DEATHROW: if you can FOSTER or ADOPT BABY ASAP, PLEASE HELP THIS GIRL OUT OF THE KENNEL NOW:
she's been in there too long, although she is such a happy little girl, she really deserves a HOME now! **Baby needs to be the only pet in the home**

we've recently had the pleasure of spending the day with Baby, a delightful black & white young lady of about 1.8yrs of age, a STAFFIE MIX CUTIE saved at the last minute from death row and who now got stuck in yet another cage in a boarding kennel: PLEASE HELP US GET BABY IN THE PROPER HOME SHE IMMEDIATELY NEEDS AND DESERVES!

BABY will need to be the only pet in the home: she gets along with most dogs but can be selective and react to dogs who are unbalanced, aggressive in any way (ie. dominant females, or unbalanced males) - and definitely no cats.

SHE IS MAGIC WITH ALL PEOPLE AND VERY OBEDIENT, JUST NEEDS TO BE the only FOCUS at FIRST, AS SHE WILL NEED MORE SLOW, RESPONSIBLE SOCIALIZATION WITH OTHER DOGS AND A GOOD LEADER, SOMEONE WHO WILL CONTINUE HER TRAINING: she's been doing absolutely great, and is just a BELLY-UP CUTIE who loves to NAP on your feet!!

Baby is sooo sweet. She is good on the leash and she listens..she knows her basic commands, and she loves to be near you, doing what we call "the rottie lean"..! She REALLY JUST WANTS SOMEONE TO LOVE, if you see the videos below you will know what we mean ;o]

email dakodalove@gmail.com to receive our application to fill out and return
or call 646 462 2227 for further info.
Let's Get BABY a HOME now!"*****

Click on her picture to go read more and see some videos of Baby:

Photo: Cristina Pronzati Photography©

"Beck" #22

4x4 Acrylic on wooden plaque.


I first read about "Beck" on the Pinups for Pitbull's facebook page. Since the note was posted and thanks to all the sharing, Beck is now safe and adopted... At least that is what his petfinder page says!!!! What a handsome boy. Here is what was stated in the note:

***"Beck was brought to the shelter by someone who claimed she found him. He is only 1 year old. He is at the New Haven Animal Shelter in New Haven , CT and they have him labeled as a pit bull/lab mix. Beck has only been at the shelter for 3 weeks and has deteriorated rapidly. The pictures you see were taken October 27th (except for the facial shot, that was taken when he first arrived). He's lost 10 lbs. in one week!"***


Click on his picture below to see the original note and other pictures &hearts

"Six" is just the clown for Halloween!!!

4"x4" Acrylic on wooden plaque


Rumor has it Six is a big time clown! He reminds me a bunch of my very own Stan.. In fact before I set out to paint it, Brian saw his picture on the table and for a quick minute thought it was Staniel!

Six is just one of the many dogs available for adoption with Sweet Bark Pit Bull Rescue Here's his blurb from the album:

***"We took in Six and two of his puppies in May. He's such a great boy, very sweet, great with kids, loves to give kisses. He's very easy going! Happy to play fetch, go for a walk or cuddle on the couch with you!!

He lives with cats right now and is a little scared of them, but is doing really well. He's good with other dogs, but would prefer a sister!!

He's a young boy 1 1/2 yrs old, neutered and UTD on vaccines!

If you'd like to meet Six or want more info please e-mail us at sweetbarkpitbullrescue@gmail.com "***



Click below to see more pictures of this goof in action!!!

"Sgt. Stubby"- Bully Ambassador #7

3"x5" Acrylic on wooden plaque

The Final Ambassador in my series ends on Lucky #7 who else would I hold up to that honor than "Stubby" here is an excerpt from his wikipedia page:

***"Stubby served with the 102nd Infantry, 26th (Yankee) Division in the trenches in France for 18 months and participated in four offensives and 17 battles. He entered combat on February 5, 1918 at Chemin des Dames, north of Soissons, and was under constant fire, day and night for over a month. In April 1918, during a raid to take Seicheprey (Meurthe-et-Moselle), Stubby was wounded in the foreleg by the retreating Germans throwing hand grenades. He was sent to the rear for convalescence, and as he had done on the front was able to improve morale. When he recovered from his wounds, Stubby returned to the trenches.
After being gassed himself, Stubby learned to warn his unit of poison gas attacks, located wounded soldiers in no man's land, and — since he could hear the whine of incoming artillery shells before humans could — became very adept at letting his unit know when to duck for cover. He was solely responsible for capturing a German spy in the Argonne. Following the retaking of Château-Thierry by the US, the thankful women of the town made Stubby a chamois coat on which were pinned his many medals. There is also a legend that while in Paris with Corporal Conroy, Stubby saved a young girl from being hit by a car. At the end of the war, Conroy smuggled Stubby home."***

"Sergeant Stubby (1916 or 1917 – March 16, 1926), was the most decorated war dog of World War I and the only dog to be promoted to sergeant through combat."




Side note... Rant:

Today I found myself wandering the links posted upon my facebook wall... all leading to outside sites... articles for and against Pit bull type dogs... I find it's a two sided coin and for every one person for these animals you may find 2 or 3 against.... I had to stop reading the comments underneath the articles. It evoked a sadness mixed with rage in me. My dogs are not this stereo type of awful loaded weapons some people would have them to believe....If more of the human race acted out of LOVE instead of FEAR (which begets hate) the world would be a kinder place to ALL species. Today it seems I had my limit of ignorance and hate... and it was only just after noon... *sigh* While I love my Pitties. I do not feel they belong in the hands of every pet owner... Especially ones not willing to commit the time and effort that goes along with being a responsible dog owner. We call them our "fur-kids, & fur-babies" however we still need to understand they are dogs and need structure. I feel if a person decides that they would like to welcome a dog into their life, then they really need to read up on the breed they choose BEFORE they welcome her into their home. When we knew we were getting "Stan" I went to the book store and bought a few books, ones on boxers and also APBT, as that's what is in Stan's lineage. I read them cover to cover as well as some dog training books. I knew from the start I wanted to be a responsible dog owner. Not every dog out there is a proper fit for a certain type of family. You need to be responsible when choosing... Read up on different breeds to see which would best suit your lifestyle. With that being said the media and uneducated/ uninformed people alike, take heresy as fact and exploit those incidents that are the extreme... I guess you can find this in any movement you have strong feelings for...With my Husband it's his 2nd amendment rights, and with me (and him) it's also our love for Pit bull type dogs... The similarities in the witch hunts are starting to look the same. You have fear of the unknown, some extreme instances and then boom... lets ban the issues at hand. What makes America so great is our right to CHOOSE and our freedoms of speech... unfortunately not everyone is always going to agree with your choices or your stands on certain issues.

I know I go to bed every night loved. Loved by a great family, Loved by an amazing spouse, loved by the only children I choose to have, 2 cats snuggled right next to 2 very Loved and loving Pit-bull type dogs. I choose to live my life full of LOVE rather than FEAR.

"Hector" Bully Ambassador #6

3"x5" acrylic on wooden plaque.

You may recognize Hector from his unfortunate claim to fame as being one of the Vick dogs... That greusome past is now behind this Love-a-bull! Here is an excerpt from his facebook page:

*** "Hector was one of NFL quarterback Michael Vick's victims of cruelty as a fighting dog. The dogs were rescued and given a chance to live and Hector is now happy and living life to the fullest. He is a certified therapy dog." ***


Hector has been featured on the pages of Parade magazine as well as even being on the CBS News!
Hector is one of the amazing pups gracing the pages of the 2011 Pinups for Pitbulls calendar!!! What a happy ending for this adorable dog!!!!




Photo credit: Melissa L.

"Domino" aka "Lil' Dom"

I'm taking a quick intermission before I start painting the Bully Ambassador #6... For a Quick Foster break:


3"x3" acrylic on wooden plaque.


Meet "Domino" or as we have been calling him "Lil'Dom" it's hard to train a dog that has "no" in his name... I had received an e-mail from Bully Breed Rescue on Sept 29th about a 4 month old puppy who's adoption had fallen through and incidentally was also losing his foster home. Attached was the sweetest little face I had seen that week:



I forwarded the email to Brian. Basically it was a foster plea, a request to keep this little guy out of boarding. Apparently "Dom" has never been in a shelter, as he was found as a young stray in upstate NY and has been cared for since. When we brought him to our vet the Doc said that he was closer to 6 months since all his baby teeth were out.

Lil Dom has been quite fun with our two boys. I think Pikey will be really sad to see him go. However I feel very happy knowing that we are helping to prepare Dom for his furever home. There has been a few people interested and this saturday he is going on a meet and greet with a potential adopter. I am sending out positive thoughts that he will get along well with their resident pup!

Domino has nothing but love to give, he can be a bit playful at times but he's still a young pup. He gets along well with our dogs and our 2 cats. He is crate trained and about 90% house broken... Any accident he has had occurred while he was at the front door waiting to go out!


If you are interested in Domino and would like information feel free to contact Bully Breed rescue at:
bbr.fostercare@gmail.com


Click below to see other pictures of Domino:

10/10/10 Carla-Lou Raffle!!!!

Happy tens! To celebrate Pit-Bull awareness month and also the fact that yours truly and her 2 bully boys will appear as Miss October in the 2011 Pinups for Pitbulls Calendar. I dedicate the first of the Ambassador Raffles to the four-legged Founder of PFPB, the lovely "elderbull" Carla-Lou!





See the tribute to Carla-Lou here

Ok the basics:

1- Donate/purchase a $5.00 online Raffle ticket via paypal :

Raffle purchase time closed.. Good luck to all who entered!!!


Congratulations to Celia Brown!!! our Foster Pup, Domino picked your name outta the basket! &hearts

2- make sure you include your name and a correct email & shipping address on your paypal. (if you win I'll contact you via email to congratulate you and get the picture of your pup!!!)

3- stay tuned on the Artsy Bullies Facebook page on tuesday night. I will announce the winner around 7pm!


What do you win?!!!

A custom portrait of your dog on a plaque! a $45 value!!!



Happy Raffling!!! The donation to Pinups for Pitbulls will be placed once the raffle has ended and the winner is announced!

Good Luck and stay tuned for other upcoming raffles over the next couple weeks!!!



The PFPB Mission Statement:
***"Pinups for Pit Bulls, Inc. works to educate the public about the history and temperament of the American Pit Bull Terrier and Bully Breeds, to raise awareness about Breed Specific Legislation and Breed-Specific abuse, and to raise funds for bully-breed-friendly rescues and dogs in need.

Our goal is to re-establish the defamed reputation of the Pit Bull as America's premier companion animal, war hero, and therapy dog."*****

"Brad Pit"- Bully Ambassador #5

5"x5" Acrylic on wooden plaque.

I first saw Brad on the Concrete Angel's Face book page. Of course he caught my eye because he reminds me so much of my Pikey. I do have a soft spot for those Blue noses.

Here's an excerpt from "Brad Pit's" story:
****"-Brad Pit was possibly used as a bait dog or was in several dog fights.
When he came to us he had some old scars of bite wounds, ALOT of old scar tissue & open wounds that are infected, staff infections in both legs & under neck (has a hard time walking & breathing) and an infected & swollen left eye & was very much under weight.


UPDATE ON BRAD PIT: o7.15.1o
brad is totally healed (except from his neuter)
he has gained total of 25 pounds & is doing wonderful!
has passed several temp. tests & is now in behavior training on his way to becoming a therapy dog


brad still has a little limp in his walk..he seems to favor his left leg at times.

but all in all this pup is one amazing being!
LOVES EVERYONE & EVERYTHING!!!"****

Click his picture to go see more of Brad and read his whole story! He's become somewhat of a local celebrity in his area:

"Petey"- Bully Ambassador #4

3"x3" acrylic on wooden plaque.

If you don't know who "Petey" is then maybe you were born yesterday or have never had the pleasure of watching "The Little Rascals"

I used to watch this show when I was younger, and of course I believe every child that did longed to have a pup just like Pete! Also in the modern movie adaptation, they stayed true to the show and used an actual Pitbull to play Pete! Woohoo! for once hollywood didn't change it to be politically correct.... Yet that was over 10 years ago, I bet now things may be different.

Click on the picture below to go read more about this wonderful dog!

"Princess Buttercup" - Bully Ambassador #3

3"x3" Acrylic on wooden plaque, painted 9/28/10



While Princess Buttercup may best be known as the character from the "Princess Bride" this lesser known "PB" is an emerging Bully Breed Ambassador. She may also not be as well known as Sarge, Carla Lou or even Stubby for that matter... But I hope her story touches your heart as much as it did mine. Here is Princess Buttercup's Story... Quoted from the .pdf file that Valerie emailed me:

****
Princess Buttercup (aka PB) was originally from an animal shelter in New Jersey. When she arrived
she passed her temperament evaluation with flying colors--she just wasn't recommended to live
with other pets. A few weeks later, a note was posted on her cage for volunteers to not walk her. I
immediately took this dog out to get to know her and to figure out why volunteers weren't
allowed to walk her. When I brought her back into the shelter, I ran into one of the managers and
asked what the deal was with her... the manager couldn't give me an answer, so then eventually one of the staff members who put the sign up said, "She's just a little nippy." So, I was thinking to myself... "Whew... at least it's nothing serious... but still I
don't like that she has that sign on her cage... That's going to deter people from adopting her."



So, after walking PB all the time and getting to know her, I
learned that she was extremely affectionate, intelligent, willing
to please, and enjoyed learning. She loves treats and toys, too. I
even had several dog trainers evaluate her and help me out with
some of her basic obedience (all she knew was "sit").
After all that, is when I was getting desperate and really nervous about PB. She was at the shelter for a while and getting no action from adopters. At the time, a lot of changes were being made at the shelter; good and bad. I started getting worried about her and I just could NOT accept the fact of losing this dog. Luckily, the shelter started a Humane Education
Program. I elected PB to be the first Doggie Ambassador to go to a school with me and the rest of the team to
help teach the kids about animal kindness, dog safety,



and of course show the kids how great Pit Bulls can be. I was almost in TEARS with how totally
AMAZING PB was with the kids. She met over 100 kids in one day -- all of which were running up to
her petting her ALL over her body. She was LOVING it. She literally rolled on her back and had tons of kids petting her belly. When I returned to the shelter to bring her back from the school, nobody believed me when I told them how great she was! All they focused on was how "crazy" she was in her kennel. Thankfully, I had the pictures to prove it. But, when
the staff didn't really show any happiness or excitement, I knew I had to get her into a foster home... So, in the
meantime, I kept bringing her to schools, doing group presentations with PB and tours at the shelter. I had
teachers, friends, and family cross-post her everywhere to give her some more exposure. I posted
her on Craigslist and of course, Facebook.

So, about a month later I found a nice lady willing foster her. She had two young kids, but also 30
horses... When I learned she had all those horses, I immediately wanted to visit her home and see
her living situation. Everything seemed fine and I never thought she would give PB up. But, each
week she kept e-mailing me, texting me, even sometimes calling me telling me how she just can't do it anymore. PB
wasn't housebroken, yet -- so I gave her my own personal dog crate, which she tried once and stopped because PB was
crying her cage. I even made arrangements to meet her at her house with a professional dog trainer to help her out. But,
instead she was in Delaware when she was supposed to meet us... She honestly was a nice lady and was good with animals,
but she just had too much on her plate. So, I had two choices -- 1. bring her back to the shelter where she would be killed
because they were overcrowded and were not allowing dogs to be adopted who didn't do well with dogs and/or cats or
2. take on the responsibility of paying for her vet bills, boarding fees, travel fees, and spend countless hours trying to find her
a home and sit outside of stores with her... Of course, without question, I chose number 2. So, I have been boarding PB. Hopefully, I am moving into my new house in about a month, which then I can let her stay with me until she finds her forever home. I have been taking her to PetSmart to get her socialized with other dogs and of course to collect
some funds for her boarding fees.




Princess Buttercup is just a huge inspiration. She has just a loving personality and loves being
surrounded by people and kids. Once while I was doing a mini-event at PetSmart with her, a few
people were leery of her because of her breed. One person said that they are "really afraid of Pit
Bulls" and "don't trust them", but these people who were once afraid of Pit Bulls, said, "Wow, I
feel so comfortable around this dog" and "She is so loveable!" So, it's really great that many
people got to learn that not all Pit Bulls act the way the media portrays them.
It's been a very long rode for PB and I. I've had a handful of people interested in her, but for some
reason they all back out. I am still hopeful for PB. She does have a lot of supporters on her side. I
don't want PB's story to be about me... but I want to share our story to inspire people to just go
with their heart when it comes to an animal's life and that anyone can do anything they set their
mind, too. I am a 19 year old girl. I go to college full- time, I am employed at the animal shelter part-time
and volunteer there part-time. However, I recently was injured and broke my finger, so I am out of
work (which means... no money), so I had to spend all my money I had saved up for a car on PB's fees.
But, that's alright because she is 100% worth it. Thankfully, I have had 3 excellent supporters by my
side: my mother, my aunt, and most importantly my grandmother. Without them -- PB would not be here
today and our story could not have been shared today.


In honor of Princess Buttercup, I am starting a rescue and educational organization called The
Princess Buttercup Foundation. The goals of this organization are to educate children about
animal kindness and dog safety, as well as rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home dogs from kill-
shelters. Our website can be viewed at: www.princessbuttercupfoundation.weebly.com
Thank you!
Valerie & Princess Buttercup
valcarpas@yahoo.com

****End Quoted Email*******


I really don't think I can add anymore to this amazing story! It's refreshing to see someone so you be so selfless &hearts

"Carla Lou" - Bully Ambassador #2

5"x5" Acrylic on Wooden Plaque. Painted 9/26/10

Carla Lou is the inspiration that spawned Pinups For Pitbulls... Little Darling adopted her in 1996 through Chako.org. Carla Lou was left for dead in a basement. "Carla Lou has since been an example for Little Darling, teaching her how to be loving, warm, and full of hope despite bad circumstances, cruelty and ignorance." (Quoted from the PFPB founder page) Please click the link to go read the whole story behind Little Darling and Carla Lou, founders of Pinups for Pitbulls.

The Mission Statement:
***"Pinups for Pit Bulls, Inc. works to educate the public about the history and temperament of the American Pit Bull Terrier and Bully Breeds, to raise awareness about Breed Specific Legislation and Breed-Specific abuse, and to raise funds for bully-breed-friendly rescues and dogs in need.

Our goal is to reestablish the defamed reputation of the Pit Bull as America's premier companion animal, war hero, and therapy dog."*****



Little Darling has also been a huge inspiration to me. I first met her last october. I was ordering my 2010 Calendar (PRE-ORDER YOUR 2011 PFPB Calendar today!!!) and noticed the donations tab. I sent them a quick note wondering if they could use some of my hair clips for donations... The Pit Bull Awareness day event was right around the corner, and they'd love to have some! Also We had a mutual friend and decided to meet and grab lunch in New Hope... Where turns out my husband had worked with Little Darling along time ago at a small deli in princeton!!! SMALL WORLD! Let me state here that while I knew that dogs were always up for adoption/rescue... I really had no idea about why the rescue world is so important... Neither one of my dogs have had a tragic starts and they were not rescued, (Much to the dismay of said mutual friend), We love them just the same and do feel that we rescued them from any life they may have had that wasn't involved in ours! However in the past year of getting a little involved on the sidelines, sending various donations and chipping in where I can, using my art towards good... I have learned the harsh and cruel reality that many of these dogs go through and why it is so important to foster or rescue a pup in need. My dog of choice just so happens to be a Pit Bull. Brian and I plan to foster our first bully in need sometime after thanksgiving, for now we are sponsoring him from afar. (See LUKE and help us help him get adopted to a furever home)

The reason for this long winded side story about me is, I wouldn't be doing what I am doing with this project today without Little Darling, and in turn without Carla Lou. They truly are Ambassadors and spark inspiration in anyone they come into contact with! I love those ladies!


Also please come out and join us for the 2010 Pitbull Awareness Day & 2011 Calendar Release Party

when: 10/23/10
Where: Shampoo Nightclub
650 Willow Street (between 7th and 8th) - or the 8th Street subway station
Philadelphia, PA

Daytime: 1 - 4 pm all ages: Adopt-a-bulls, keynote speakers, vendors, and rescues. Dogs who enjoy meeting new friends welcome!

Evening 8 p- 2 a, 21+ w/ ID -- Special appearance by Shorty Rossi of Pit Boss, with acts by Olde City Sideshow, and Burlesque by Little Darling , Candy Mayhem & more!
 
To donate items for the raffle and silent auction, Email events@pinupsforpitbulls.com, subject PBA DAY

click the picture below to go check out the Pinups for Pitbulls website:



also become a fan on FACEBOOK
and follow on TWITTER

"Sarge" -Bully Ambassador #1

6"x4" acrylic on wooden plaque. painted 9/24/10

I briefly met "Sarge Wolf-Stringer" last october at the Pinups for Pitbulls, Pitbull Awarness day... I saw this very tall man carrying one of the most unique PitBulls I'd ever seen. The Dog wore an awesome army green coat... it was a little later in the day that I learned this dog was "Sarge" an "Elderbull" being that he's celebrating 16 years this month!! Happy Birthday Sarge!

Sarge is truly a breed ambassador, he spent the first 14 years of his life with an animal abuser in Philadelphia... he has many scars from his old life, but they are only skin deep! In sept 2008 he was rescued along with 30+ other dogs. In Feb of 2009 Sarge was adopted by his new mom and dad. Sarge is a certified "Pals for Life" therapy dog, he visits nursing homes, rehab centers, libraries etc...

Sarge embodies a story of success, having been through so much and being so wonderful....

Here's a picture of him from the 2010 Barking Beauty Pageant
click on the picture to go read more about truly unique dog!!!


Photo Courtesy of: Sit Pretty

#20 "Roy"

5"x5" acrylic on wooden panel. painted 9/22/10

I bet this boy is a goof in real life! Look at his face! It makes me giggle!

I first saw "Roy" on the Bruised not Broken fanpage apparently I am not the first to paint this lovely boy... I almost didn't because of this but that smile beckoned me! Here is an excerpt from his album:

*** "CHECK OUT ROY!! This ADORABLE, SMILEY red-nose pittie is in urgent need of either a FOSTER OR FOREVER home, as his current foster situation is not ideal (cramped conditions, lots of crate time, etc.) ROY was saved from Death Row by the incredible rescue group, DakodaLove, but NOW REALLY NEEDS OUR HELP! He is SUCH AN OUTSTANDING DOG! Roy is about 1.5 years old, neutered, up to date on all his shots, HOUSETRAINED, GREAT WITH PEOPLE/DOGS, loooooves to play and snuggle...just a fabulous boy! And a REALLY COOL fact about Roy is that his portrait is hanging in Shorti Rossi's home (from the show "Pit Boss" on Animal Planet)!! Does that sort of make Roy a celebrity? Maybe a little? ;)
If interested in fostering/adopting this AMAZINGLY SWEET dog and would like to fill out an application, please send an email to Cristina at: dakodalove@gmail.com "****

click below to go see other pictures of this silly guy!

Photo: Cristina Pronzati Photography©

#19 Floppy Dog

Let me start out with a confession... I &hearts this puppy so much. My best friend, Nicole, is fostering this beautiful little girl. She has stolen the heart of everyone she meets. My boys, Stan and Pikey, absolutely adore her. They play so well together. I am selfishly hoping that she becomes a permanent member of Nicole's family so that we get to continue to see her. She was rescued by the wonderful people at Sweet Bark Pit Bull Rescue this is what they had to say about Floppy (formerly known as Sydney)

*** "This is Floppy (formerly known as Sydney)! She came all the way from Alabama where she was running out of time!

What is she mixed with? We're not quite sure! But adorable...THAT WE ARE COMPLETELY SURE OF!!

She's the cutest, sweetest little girl. Maybe a little Boston terrier in there? Basenj? Whatever she is it doesn't matter. She's as cute as can be and looking for her furever home. She's good with dogs, cats, kids...you name it!

She's 5mos old, spayed and UTD on vaccines. " ***

Click below to see more pictures of this little lady &hearts (in this picture she's standing next to my Pikey)

#18 Bronx

3"x3" Acrylic on wooden plaque painted 9/18/10

Bronx is adorable! I first read about him through the Concrete Angel's Modified K9 Pit Bull Rescue. Here is what it says under his album:

***Bronx is a Mastiff mix
(possibly mixed with APBT... hes is around 9o pounds....no one really knows what he is actually mixed with - eventually if we get enough funds we'll have a DNA text done)

Bronx was pulled from the Manhattan ACC by a Pit Bull Rescue located in Eastern Pa.

He was completely emmaciated w/ wounds on both hips... Ears cut right down to his head...the fur around his muzzle is warn down...overall he was just a mess. Noone know the exact past this pup has had but by the look of him..IT WASNT GOOD

His wounds have completely healed and he has gained over 30 pounds.

Bronx loves people of all ages (prev. fostered with 4 children).

The ideal home for him has no other pets, but a submissive female dog would possibly be ok.

Bronx is dog selective.

Bronx is a TRUE terrier at heart so please NO kittys or small animals/dogs.

UTD of vaccinations, neutered, and completely housebroken.

***********
NOTE:
Bronx was bounced around between several foster homes & a vet clinic..all of these placements were not right for him.

Bronx is now(sept 1o,2o1o) under the care of Modified k9 Pit Bull Rescue & will be fosterd by Chelle, Derek & little Dylan Zielinski

He has been waiting for so long for his forever family to find him!

If you are interested in meeting this Beauty please message chelle at modifiedk9@hotmail.com"*****

Click below to go see other pictures of this beautiful boy in action!