Strength and determination, though usually considered positive traits, have sometimes worked against pit bulls. People may fear their strength, and may also fear their determination if it is misapplied, especially if they have been inundated with stories of mistreated pit bulls attacking relentlessly. The positive side of these traits, however, was on full display this week in a heartwarming recent news report. 

In this amazing story of intelligence, courage and strength, a rescued pit bull named Lily saved her owner. A woman in Massachusetts had fallen on train tracks, and was unconscious. As a freight train thundered down the tracks, Lily attempted to pull the woman away. Lily succeeded in that the woman was unhurt. Unfortunately for Lily, she was hit by the train. Fortunately Lily survived the accident, although she was badly injured and needed to have a leg amputated. 

Although activists seems to be making progress in preventing or overturning community breed restrictions that target pit bulls, the skies of United Airlines just got a little less friendly for pit bull families. United Airlines announced nine dog breeds that it is banning from its flights, and of course, one of those breeds is the pit bull. 

Breed specific legislation (BSL) can seem like an easy and common-sense way to protect the public from dangerous dogs. In reality, it can mean death for many perfectly nice dogs, while not reducing the number of dog attacks in the area that it was implemented. 

A large dog, allowed to run loose, raced across a frozen reservoir chasing a coyote, but broke through the ice. The dog swam in the frozen water, but was unable to get to solid ice, and was tiring. A man who had been specially trained for this type of rescue, was able to bring the dog to safety. 

When is a hero dog not a hero? Sadly, the answer seems to be when the dog is a pitbull. Dogs are usually applauded for protecting their owners. For some owners, that is partially the reason they have a dog.  Recently though, a pitbull who protected his owner from someone who was threatening her was euthanized.