The Pennsylvania SPCA is happy to announce the launch of 2nd Chance Dogs – a new campaign to bring awareness and encourage adoption of rescued pit bulls. As the only organization actively investigating animal fighting and prosecuting animal abusers in the city of Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania SPCA’s is encouraging animal activist to become involved in their efforts to save the lives of thousands of animals.

“If anyone deserves a second chance in the city of Philadelphia, it is the innocent victims of animal abuse,” says Sue Cosby, chief executive officer of the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Pennsylvania SPCA). “To date, we’ve investigated over 400 reports of animal fighting and abuse this year; almost double the number of investigations in 2008. This campaign will help us raise funds to provide veterinary care and enhanced socialization and training for our dogs so that they can be adopted into loving forever homes,” says Cosby.

The 2nd Chance Dogs of the Pennsylvania SPCA are pit bulls rescued from abuse and neglect by our Humane Law Enforcement Officers or found as strays by our Animal Control Officers. They come from situations involving severe neglect, starvation, cruelty, and from illegal dog fighting operations. Currently, over 80% of the Pennsylvania SPCA’s canine population in Philadelphia is made up of pit bulls and pit bull mixes.

“The campaign is intended to remind people that the pit bull breed is known for its gentleness and willingness to please people – they have been unfairly vilified in the media because of their use and abuse in dog-fighting rings,” says Cosby.

The attention 2nd Chance Dogs receive at the Pennsylvania SPCA is often the first time they ever receive veterinary care, the first time they are touched by a loving hand, and the first time they can sleep safely out of reach of their abusers. All of the Pennsylvania SPCA’s pit bulls are fully behaviorally tested to make sure that they are placed into the best homes for their personality and demeanor. Once given a second chance, these dogs learn to run and play and forget their past abuses. They make loyal and loving companions.

Support the 2nd Chance Dogs of the Pennsylvania SPCA today by donating to their rescue, care, and placement into loving homes. Visit our Web site at www.pspca.org to learn how you can help.