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Viral Adoption Story Highlights Absurdity Of Breed Discrimination

 


Pit bull terrier with two children

It was a simple photo of Waterford, Michigan, resident Dan Tillery with his newly adopted dog Sir Wiggleton lying on the ground, smiling ear to ear. But it took the internet by storm — garnering more than 6,700 shares on Facebook.

The post spurred on thousands of news articles from around the world and it’s the kind of adoption story that has become the gold standard for animal welfare in this digital age. Best Friends and others urge organizations to use these kinds of images to tell the story of adoption so that others will make the same choice. It’s endearing, sweet and shows the power of the bond we have with animals.

Unfortunately, the popularity of this photo has caused problems for Dan and his new pup (who has been renamed Diggy). That’s because Waterford, a town located about an hour northwest of Detroit, has a law that bans the ownership of certain breeds of dogs. So when they caught wind of the story, the authorities visited Dan’s house and according to local news reports, “determined Diggy is a pit bull, therefore banned in the township.”

The case is still progressing, and Dan recently received a citation that carries a possible fine of $500. Next is an appearance in court, where he will have to present evidence that Diggy is not a pit bull and should be allowed to stay. A judge will ultimately determine Diggy’s fate. Before we go any further, let’s all watch

 

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Best Friends Animal Society

Best Friends is a nonprofit organization building no-kill programs and partnerships nationwide, all coordinated from our Kanab, Utah headquarters - the largest no-kill sanctuary for homeless companion animals.

At the core of our work is the dream that one day kindness will replace cruelty, and animals will no longer be destroyed because they are unwanted or imperfect. Spaying and neutering will be the rule for all pets and adoption from local animal shelters and rescues will be the first option for everyone. Those same shelters and rescues will have the knowledge and resources to help rehabilitate special-needs animals and find the right family for every animal.

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