This post was written by guest blogger, Carley Murray, Events Coordinator for Out of the Pits (OOP).  OOP is a Capital District non-profit with a mission to rescue Pit Bulls that have been abandoned or abused, and to educate the public about responsible pet ownership and the true nature of the American Pit Bull Terrier.  
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As we put the finishing touches on the plans for this weekend’s Out of the Pits Into the Ritz gala, I can’t help but think of spending countless hours performing some not-so-pretty tasks associated with being a pet owner and animal rescuer. In a few short days we will be trading in our fur covered jeans and t-shirts for fancy garb and joining fellow Pit Bull lovers, Out of the Pits supporters, and animal advocates. Our network of volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes to advocate for this amazing breed; it’s a Cinderella story of sorts.

I smile as I think of another Cinderella story. Her name is Eadie. Late one evening Out of the Pits received an urgent call from an Animal Control Officer and Troy Vet seeking our help. A fire in downtown Troy exposed a fighting operation in Troy. When the firemen arrived at the house, the owner fled the scene. Wondering why, the firemen entered the building only to find several abandoned Pit Bulls left in deplorable conditions. Not surprisingly, paraphernalia of a fighting ring confirmed the frightening reality that dog fighting rings occur right in our own back yard.

Once we were able to enter the building we found a mom and babies, six older puppies, and several adults crammed into crates; so tight that we couldn’t count the number of dogs in each. Seeing the look of fear in their eyes we were more determined than ever to do everything we could to help make the futures of these innocent creatures the best it could be.

With assistance from an outstanding network of pit bull lovers we assessed and evaluated the dogs; originally identifying one as fawn in color. After a nice long bath and some TLC we were surprised to see Eadie, a gentile little girl with glowing white fur staring back at us with a look of simple thanks. All the signs of the filth and grime from the deplorable conditions, soot from the fire, and malnourishment were stripped only to reveal a glowing white beauty.

We are extremely grateful that our foster families have such huge and loving hearts; regardless of the day of the week, hour of the day, or number of dogs that need a temporary situation they always pull thru. Shortly after being rescued from deplorable conditions, covered in soot, Eadie found a wonderful and loving home. Soon after being adopted by Jason and Kris we received a visit from Eadie at one of our Valentine Kiss-a-Bull events at Dawgdom in Saratoga. We almost didn’t recognize her! In a couple short months this special little girl had gained a healthy amount of weight, was glowing white, donning a pink collar adorned with rhinestones and a pretty little sweater to keep her warm. Clearly her new forever home had given Eadie the life and love she deserves. A classic Cinderella story if I’ve ever seen one!

Here she is after her adoption –

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The work of Out of the Pits and the importance of responsible pet ownership are so clear in Eadie’s story.  Truly, an amazing transformation.  From being mistreated and used in the Troy dog fighting ring, to a gentle and wonderful family pet.

THANKS to Carley for telling us more about Out of the Pits, and for sharing Eadie’s story!

The gala to benefit Out of the Pits will take place this Saturday, August 20th from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Union Gables Inn, 55 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs.

In addition to lite fare provided by Classe Catering, a silent auction, and entertainment by the Rogue Scholars, special guests at the event will include:

Jason Keller, Emcee (from 102.7 EQX). Jason was the guest Emcee last year also.  Hilarious and an animal (Pit Bull) lover!
Valerie Lang, Assistant Professor of the Animal Law Program at Hudson Valley Community College.
Elizabeth Hess, author. Here’s a link to some of her work around the Michael Vick case.
Eadie, the special girl you just read about!
Tara, an amazing service dog.
Other Out of the Pits rescues with Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog titles.

I really, really encourage you to check out OOP’s website and take a more in depth look at what they do, and the dogs that have passed through their organization (including those currently up for adoption!).  

Hope to see you at the gala on Saturday!