In my role as a pet rescuer, I’ve helped rescue numerous stray and abandoned Pit Bulls from our mean city streets and also down on the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina.

The vast majority of these Pits have been truly wonderful dogs, including my own two rescued Pit Bulls named Highway and Shadow. Today, they are both extremely appreciative, affectionate, and gentle dogs.

But unfortunately, Pit Bulls have a very bad reputation these days, although it wasn’t always this way. In fact, these dogs used to be considered such powerful symbols of bravery and loyalty that they were featured on World War One Recruiting Posters, and believe it or not, they were once called ‘The Nanny Dog’ because of their gentleness with children. They were also beloved family pets to many famous figures including President Theodore Roosevelt, Helen Keller, and Fred Astaire.

But very sadly today, these extremely intelligent and affectionate dogs suffer from widespread discrimination. They are now banned from many housing complexes, and they are even banned from entire cities and counties - a strategy which has proven both costly and ineffective in making our communities safer.

National Pit Bull Awareness Day, which takes place on October 25th, was created back in 2007 to bring positive attention to the now vilified Pit Bull Terrier. By combating myths about this particular breed, we have the power to restore its good reputation.

Here’s how you can help:

Become a Myth-Buster and A Pit Bull Advocate: You have probably heard that Pit Bulls have ‘locking jaws’ and are born naturally aggressive—neither of which are true . In reality, Pit Bulls’ jaws are no different from those of any other types of dogs. Spaying and Neutering is the best way to eliminate aggressive behavior in any breed of dog, as the vast majority of dog bites come from unaltered dogs. Spay and neuter your own dogs, and urge your neighbors to spay and neuter their canines.

Combat Dog Fighting and Breed-Specific Legislation: Become a voice for these dogs who are being victimized by cruel animal fighters and by harmful laws today. Join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade to learn how you can get involved. Also report any illegal dog fighting activities that you learn about in your own neighborhood to local law enforcement officials.

Consider Adopting or Fostering a Pit Bull: Thousands of Pit Bull Terriers end up in America’s animal shelters every year now due to abuse, to over-breeding, and to abandonment. And very sadly, thousands of them are now being euthanized in America’s animal shelters every year. Rescuing a Pit Bull can provide a lifetime of joy for your family, as it has for mine.

Make Your Pit Bull an Ambassador: The best way to combat negative stereotypes about Pit Bulls is for you and your Pit to set a positive example. Take your well-trained dog with you to the park, to the store, and for long walks around your neighborhood to show people the peaceful, gentle side of Pits.

Additionally, consider having your dog earn an AKC Canine Good Citizen Certificate, which may come in handy when facing breed bias from people who don’t understand the good that Pit Bulls can do.

No dog is born vicious – vicious people attempt to make them so.