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Step 1
Learn as much as you can about pit bulls. Since these dogs have such a bad reputation, it is wise for anyone thinking of rescuing a pit bull to learn as much as possible about the breed. The Happy Pit Bull website and Pit Bull Lovers website contain valuable information about the breed (see Resources). Pay particular attention to the Owners Manual on the Happy Pit Bull website.
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Step 2
Call your insurance agent. Many Louisiana insurance companies do not like ensuring households with pit bulls. Rather than unknowingly voiding your insurance coverage by rescuing a pit bull, make a simple phone call to your insurance agent to ensure coverage. If your insurance carrier does not like ensuring these dogs, contact the Louisiana Department of Insurance for a listing of companies that are willing to insure pit bulls.
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Step 3
Check to see if your Louisiana city has any BSLs (breed-specific laws). Cities such as Morgan City have a confirmed ban on pit bulls, while Alexandria, Plaquemines Parish and St. Parish have unconfirmed pit bull restrictions. To see if your city has a pit bull-specific law, visit the Louisiana page of the Understand-a-Bull website (see Resources).
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Step 4
Match the right pit bull temperament to your household. Even if the pit bull you rescue appears to have a calm temperament, putting it in a situation that is contrary to the dog’s personality is a recipe for disaster. If you rescue a pit bull that does not have experience with or show tolerance for children, do not allow the dog to come into contact with your children or children of the neighborhood. Similarly, if you rescue a pit bull that requires a lot of affection, and you spend most of your day away from the dog at work or school, the dog may become frustrated and lash out.
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Step 5
Find a reputable rescue center. Rather than rescue a pit bull right off the street, go to an established rescue center. Animal Rights for Life, located in Metairie, Louisiana, offers dog screening and medical care before the dogs are placed with an adoptive family. To find a pit bull rescue center in your area, visit the Adopt a Pet website and insert your zip code (see Resources).
