When April began her search for a new dog, she was interested in finding a French Bulldog to adopt. However, after visiting PAWS Chicago’s Adopt-A-Thon where she met Monster (PAWS name Roscoe), an eight-month-old Bull Terrier, she knew he was her per perfect match.  

“Monster was described as a goofball – a fun-loving, happy-all-the-time kind of dog.  Well, that’s me too!  His personality was a good match for me and my home,” said April.  

Before the adoption was finalized, PAWS provided April with guidance on how to set Monster up for successful and happy life. In addition, he and April participated in a training session with behavioral counselor and trainer Curtis Scott.

“Owning a dog is a huge responsibility, and owning a Pit Bull or a Bull Terrier mix, is even more responsibility. There’s a certain stigma around Pit Bulls, and unfortunately, some people believe the myth. I knew I was in for a challenge when I adopted Monster, and I was up for it.”

Curtis taught me some techniques for handling my dog and recommended that I expose him to other dogs and take him with me to different places.  This way, I would have a well-rounded dog who I could take anywhere.  I learned a lot from Curtis and apply his techniques all the time,” said April.

Today, April reports that Monster is a very happy and loving boy. “Monster is such a sweet little doggie.  He loves the attention of adults and children and will sit on the street and cry if a person is not paying attention to him.  He can dance, give paw and do a “Monster Walk” on his hind legs. My friends love him and he even has his own Facebook page!  Through our walks around the neighborhood, Monster has brought a sense of community to me. I have met a lot of my neighbors because of him,” said April.

According to April, “Owning a dog is a huge responsibility, and owning a Pit Bull or a Bull Terrier mix, is even more responsibility.  There’s a certain stigma around Pit Bulls, and unfortunately, some people believe the myth.  I knew I was in for a challenge when I adopted Monster, and I was up for it.”