Pit bull owners defend their breed after a horrific attack

After a horrific attack in which a Schenectady man was killed by a pack of pit bulls, other owners are defending the breed.

Albany police said 59-year-old James Provost was attacked by a group of eight or nine pit bulls in the backyard of a home in the 500 block of Central Avenue.

Libby Post, executive director of the New York State Animal Protective Foundation, said that in this and every other terrible situation like this, it’s not the dogs’ fault.

“It’s the owner. The owner trains dogs to be vicious. “The owner trains a dog to be well-behaved,” she said.

Pit bull owners will tell you that the vast majority of their dogs are well trained.

“Luckily my dogs are still very young,” said Kharr Shabazz. “I’ve had them since they were puppies and I’ve always spent a lot of time with them. You sleep with me in my room. They’re always with me when I’m not at work, and then when I’m at work they’re actually together; so I think it’s socialization.”

Most Pit Bull owners will tell you that the vicious reputation often associated with the breed is completely unfair.

Amelia Schramm of Albany points out that pit bulls are often used as nannies for young children.

“They get a bad rap because they can get into cages and cage fights or dog fights, and seriously, they’re just sweet animals that deserve our love and respect,” she said.