Nicole Rivera, author of "Max, The Shelter Dog" and organizer of the "Kids for Pits" Campaign, recently laid it all out on the table for a homeless pit bull named Brock.
"When I was invited by "Little Pet Project, LLC," an Internet company helping to raise awareness of the homeless animals in Tampa, Fl., to pose for them to assist in their cause, I insisted that if they wanted me, they would have to find a homeless pit bull for me to pose with. I was so thrilled when they found Brock, an 18-month-old pit bull who has only known a shelter life," says Nicole.
Brock has lived his whole life in a shelter due to a legal tangle after Hills County Animal Services confiscated him and 17 other puppies due to mal-nourishment and neglect- most of the others did not make it..... The owners disputed and so Brock was put on hold for a very long time during the legal battle. HCAS finally won the battle, but Brock then developed a problem with his knee- HCAS could no longer cover the expense nor did they have the room for him, so euthanasia was the only option, until Pet Pal Rescue rescued him- they have performed expensive surgery and nursed him back to health for the last 8 months or so.
Nicole says, "We need a new, more balanced image of the pit bull and Little Pet Project afforded me the opportunity to present one of many to come. The world needs to know that there are other types of individuals who love these dogs. Needless to say, the shoot was amazing! Brock was a perfect gentleman and a goofy and lovable co-star. He loves treats, is extremely patient and lavishes in belly rubs. He also doesn't mind being molded and shaped like a lump of clay. But you know what the most amazing part of this story is? Lisa, the founder of Little Pet Project, was so enamored by Brock that her and her husband Art adopted him. Brock is now living large in his new home and loving it. If given the chance, the pit bull will steal your heart. That's just the way they are."
Nicole fell in love with the pit bull on her first day of volunteering at her local animal shelter. Max stole her heart and ever since then it has become her purpose in life to raise awareness for all sheltered dogs and to assist the pit bull in reclaiming their reputation as a loving affection family dog.
"My advice for anyone who is afraid, or on the fence about the pit bull is to go down to their local animal shelter, speak to the staff and spend time and get to know this sorely misunderstood breed. You will be amazed at how affection and loving they truly are and you will have released your fear. Who knows what other benefits will come for you just by doing this one jester. You can make a difference in your life and the life of a pit."