Mr. Stratton absolutely knows and loves this breed. He does not "glorify" pit fighting. He is giving a true to life account of what happened during some of the most important times and events in the breeding of the APBT. What those of you who dismiss pit fighting don't realize is, we would not have this amazing breed and all it's spectactular qualities without the process that took place during the evolution of the APBT. He describes how "gameness" was developed. Yes it's true that there are other ways to test "gameness" in the APBT. Hog catching as an example. However, hog catching is only slightly less dangerous for the dogs themselves. It's no walk in the park for the dogs or the hogs. Those of us who truly know the breed know that the APBT is the most fearless animal known to man. Therefore only another APBT can truly test the "gameness" of an APBT. What is "gameness". I'll tell you "pet pit bull" owners what it means to you. It means courage in protecting you and your family until it's very last breath if it needs to. It means that the dog can literally take a bullet from an intruder and still end the intruders day. You won't have such a problem with the pit fighting from 60 years ago if your APBT has to protect your child from an intruder, and does it efficiently. It means a fearlessness that makes the breed so gentle with their owners and everyone else. What? you say. That's right. Truly having no fear means being relaxed and at peace. It means your 2 year old can poke your pit in the eye and the dog probably won't even flinch. Pit fighting bred a tolerance for pain that no other animal posesses. Try poking a shepherd, or retriever in the eye. You'll need a bandage at least. It's zest for life and happy go lucky attitude all come from the same place. Now, before you get all crazy and whipped into a frenzy, let me say this; I've owned an APBT most of my adult life. I don't like to see a fly land on them. I do not wish to fight them. I am not a fan of fighting these dogs period. However, Richard Stratton is telling you the history of how your beloved "pet" pit bull came to be. The dog's incredible physiology and amazing attitude are a direct result of the process that Mr. Stratton outlines for you. Look closely. If you want to know what makes your sweet, friendly, happy amazing APBT tick, read the book.
Stratton Knows
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 22 years ago
I purchased this book for the first time about 16 years ago, when my first pitbull was merely a puppy. I HAVE to say that Stratton KNOWS. For people who think "the modern pitbull enthusiasts" would not enjoy this book, they need to understand and READ THE WORDS in the book. These dogs were bred for a specific purpose and people who understand also understand that Stratton focuses on this. Beautiful book, awesome insight and pictures that brought a tear to my eye. You can't go wrong with this book if you UNDERSTAND THE BREED and don't want to turn the american pitbull terrier into a lap dog! Pick it up!
The other side of the APBT
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
This is a great book if you want to learn more about dog fighting and the abilities of pitt bulls in such competitions. You just need to see the cover to figure this out. If you are looking for general information of the breed this book is not very helpful. This books clearly describes the fighting background of this great breed and how it has develop to what we know today as the APBT
Justice for a misunderstood warrior
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
I read the book when my wife brought it home from the local library. I could not believe my eyes. This book is very informative and truthful. I haven't found an author who presents the game pit bull so thoroughly. When I go to buy a Pit Bull book I look for Richard Stratton's work.
GREAT BOOK ON A.P.B.T.
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
RICHARD F. STRATTON KNEW WHAT HE WAS DOING WHEN HE WROTE THIS BOOK. HE HAS EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE BREED AND IS A RESPECTFUL "PIT" MAN IN MY EYES. I HAVE READ HIS OTHER BOOKS AND AM HAPPY I GOT TO READ THIS ONE. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO NY ONE WHO WANTED INFO. ON THIS BREED.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.