Staffies, they're softer than you think.

Children screaming and running into oncoming traffic, women screeching and running wild on trains, men stopping dead in the street in terror before crossing the road and hurrying away.  An asteroid?  A tornado? A contagious disease?  No, just me and Suki out and about.  

Honestly, this is what really happens. 

I think the thing that hurts the most is when fellow dog owners spot us in the park and instead of coming to say hello they drag their dog in the opposite direction.  Shouldn't they know better? 

Suki thinks that everybody loves her and as such a sociable dog seems puzzled and somewhat surprised when people scream in her face and seem terrified of her.  We always shout to the people running away in hysterics "she won't hurt you!" or "she'll only lick you to death!" but I don't think the message gets through.  

At this point I must mention that some people gravitate towards Suki and show no fear as she attempts to lick them clean, often shaking their heads and saying "People don't realise how lovely Staffies are!" Some family members were quite wary when we first adopted her but after meeting her they are as obsessed as we are!

Despite all this, there is still such a bad perception of Staffordshire Bull Terriers amongst many people.  This is due to the minority that are dangerous because of the behaviour of their owners.  Aside from trying to educate people and show them what a loving, soppy, cuddle monster Suki is I am at a loss as of what else to do.  That is why I was thrilled to hear of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home's new campaign Staffies, They're Softer Than You Think.  The campaign encourages people to find out more about Staffies (such as the fact they are called "the Nanny dog" due to them being so gentle and good with children) and even consider adopting one of the many that are currently residing at Battersea.

I'm going to have to stop looking at the website, otherwise Suki is going to end up with more brothers and sisters than she can manage!


Go on, Snuggle a Staffie!


P.S. ~ Staffies in the news.