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‘Not a Bully’ campaign aims to show sweet side of pit bulls

A photographer has launched a campaign called 'Not A Bully' which challenges the common opinion that pit bulls are a bully-breed. AP Photo
TORONTO – A New York photographer has launched a campaign that he hopes challenges the perception that pit bulls are "a bully breed."

The “Not a Bully” series captures a host of rescue pit bulls—all who have now been adopted and are living in new homes.

Douglas Sonders, 32, who owns a pit bull mix named Emma, says he felt compelled to speak up for the breed which he feels is often discriminated against and typecast as “aggressive and dangerous.”

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A photo from the campaign. AP/Not a bully

Sonders said Emma rescued from a high-kill shelter and put in to foster care for nine months because nobody wanted her due to her appearance – a pit-mix with black fur.

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“She is naturally gentle, great with kids and other dogs, and an excellent running partner,” he said. “Aside from her love to sneak onto my bed when I’m away, she’s perfectly behaved.”

Another dog in the series that was photographed was Winnie, a pit bull mix, who was adopted by a shy 10-year-old girl called Gillie.

Currently in Ontario, residents are not allowed to own or breed a pit bull unless the dog was owned prior to the ban in 2005. Last year, President Barack Obama denounced breed-specific legislation that targeted dogs that appear to be a “dangerous breed,” including pit bulls.

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EMMA:

PORTER:

According to the campaign, Porter was found on the street with his legs crushed and jaw smashed by his previous owners.

ROCKET:

WINNIE:

JUNIOR:

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