“I think this is an important message so people know how to appreciate them. They’re a super-friendly, loving type of dog.”

Serocki said the misconception is that the dogs are mean and aren’t wanted, especially because there are many in shelters.

One of the problems, she said, is that pit bull-types have larger litters, so there is a substantial overpopulation, along with a lack of spaying and neutering.

“There are just too many,” she said.

Other problems include lack of knowledge and skill by owners in dealing with such large and strong dogs, from walking them on retractable leads to not giving them enough exercise or toys.

And while dog fighting — which often involves pit bulls — has been a problem, aggressiveness toward humans is not wanted.

In addition, Serocki said dogs don’t hold grudges or bad memories of being mistreated.

“They don’t have ‘baggage’” like people, she said.

Adoptive owners and rescuers say the animals are far from the stereotypes that have been perpetuated by news and magazine headlines. That’s why they are against the concerted efforts by certain organizations to ban the dogs based on breed specifics.