Pit Bulls and breed discrimination

New Haven, Conn (WTNH) - Paul and Melissa adopted one of the Pit Bulls found in Michael Vick's home. They spoke with GMC Weekend about Pit Bulls, breed discrimination, and the new documentary film "Beyond the Myth".

Beyond the Myth is a film about dogs commonly referred to as "pit bulls" both pure breeds and mixes, and those who love and defend these breeds. It explores the contributing factors behind the public's generalized fear of "pit bulls," shows eye opening research regarding media influence over public opinion and examines the conflict existing between advocates and opponents of breed discriminatory laws, as carried out in three cities that ban pit bull-type dogs: Denver, Miami, and Cincinnati-along with San Francisco, which requires the animals to be spayed and neutered.

Cherry, one of the 53 pit bulls seized from Bad Newz Kennels in 2007, will be the guest of honor along with his new human family and those attending the film screening will have the opportunity to meet him. After Cherry was rescued, Best Friends Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah took him in for training and rehabilitation. It is believed Cherry was a bait dog at Bad Newz Kennels. When he first arrived at Best Friends he was very withdrawn and would flatten himself to the ground whenever anyone approached him, and would not walk on leash.

Cherry was also featured on the National Geographic Channel's "Dog Town," and that's where his new family, Paul and Melissa, saw and fell in love with Cherry and then decided to submit an adoption application.

"Although illegal in all 50 states, the cruel act of dog fighting continues to be prevalent in the U.S. and is one of the biggest contributing factors fueling the negative stereotypes placed upon pit bull type dogs in this country. It's only fitting that Cherry, believed to be one of the most abused dogs at the Vick compound be present on June 2nd to show the public the reality of how a dog revered as "America's Dog" has been demonized by irresponsible people and biased news reporting", says filmmaker Libby R. Sherrill.

Bowtie Marquis 16 Theater in Trumbull, CT

Thursday June 23rd at 7pm

General Admission $12

Advanced tickets may be purchased online at www.beyondthemythmovie.com