See the ADORABLE way this photographer is fixing the negative reputation of pit bulls.
Dogs bring joy, tail wags and companionship to their humans — no matter the breed.
Pit bulls’ muscular strength have earned them a label as being aggressive or dangerous, but as thousands of dogs endure abuse and end up locked away in shelters, there has been a push to help these animals overhaul their reputation.
Photographer Douglas Sonders began his photography series, Not a Bully, in 2012 to help dogs in need — specifically ones who are labeled as “bully breeds,” a term used for 14 dog breeds including French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers.
“The goal … is to serve as a positive PR campaign to share that despite what some bad humans have done to these dogs, they are inherently sweet and very trainable,” Sonders tellsMashable.
Sonders was inspired by his own pit bull, Emma. Emma came from a high-kill shelter and was rescued and placed in foster care. “Nobody wanted her due to her appearance. Aside from her love to sneak onto my bed when I’m away, she’s perfectly behaved,” said Sonders.
Just like Emma, several other special pit bulls have been given stunning portraits for Not A Bully, including Junior, who belongs who famous dog behavior expert Cesar Millan.
Since its inception, the photo series has gained overwhelming support and popularity. Recently, Sonders joined Millan for a television the special Love My Pitbull on National Geographic Wild, which focused on helping to change the stereotype of pit bulls as an aggressive breed.
“It has started off as a photo campaign, but currently expanding to short videos and articles about inspiring pit bulls that have faced the odds … and continue to make positive impacts on their communities.”
1. Emma and Junior
2. Emma
3. London
4. Winnie
5. Douglas Sonders and Cesar Milan, with Emma and Junior
6. Junior
7. Emma
8. Douglas Sonders and Emma
9. Junior
10. Taking Junior’s Portrait
11. Porter
12. Junior and Cesar MIlan
13. Porter
14. Rocket
Images: Douglas Sonders NOT A BULLY via Mashable
