My name is Lynn and my pup Rocco is half French Bulldog, and half pocket pit bull. He goes to Petsmart for obedience training and puppy socials, as well as boarding, only when we absolutely need it. He is not allowed to socialize with the other dogs in their Doggie Day Camp, solely based on the fact that he is mixed with a bully breed. He is a loving, well-mannered dog who gets lonely when he cannot socialize with other humans and dogs. The one time Rocco stayed at the PetsHotel, he would not eat towards the end of his stay and developed an increased sense of anxiety. Socialization with other dogs would have alleviated his anxiety.

Breed stereotyping and discrimination does not address the REAL problem with aggressive and dangerous dogs- Incompetent and irresponsible owners.

PetSmart's Doggie Day Camp policy states that, for the safety of all animals and their associates, they will not accept bully breeds of any kind into their Doggie Day Camp. These breeds include: "American Pit Bull Terriers, Miniature Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Bull Dogs, Bull Terriers or mixed breeds that have the appearance or characteristics of one of these breeds. At the discretion of PetSmart, some pets may not be permitted."

If PetSmart bans bully breeds for the safety of other dogs and their associates, then why are they not also banned from the entire store, the grooming facility, obedience training and the vet clinic? If it were truly a matter of safety, then this policy would be consistent throughout.

ANY dog breed can be dangerous, or even deadly, when trained poorly or mistreated. Stigmatizing a breed will not protect anyone and only serves as a disservice to the social, well-mannered temperament of these breeds.

Remember that PetSmart is a corporation, first and foremost. They have ignored numerous petitions which clearly shows that they are not interested in animal rights and would rather capitalize from their consumers.

Breed discrimination and supporting breed stereotypes only adds to the problem. Each animal should undergo a temperament evaluation before being permitted into Doggie Day Camp, regardless of their breed.

Please educate yourself and do not blindly believe the media or "statistics" you encounter online. Make sure they are bonafide facts. Be a critical thinker. Please help these breeds socialize and live a happier life free from anxiety and stigmatization. Thank you! <3

Links:

See what the Huffington Post has to say about Petsmart: http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/6061884



Petsmart's Doggie Day Camp Requirements

Dog Bite Statistics

The Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics Behind Dog Bites