I walk down the street and people cross it out of fear

Don't get too bummed, and don't take it personally. I used to be that person who crossed the street to avoid any dog appearing to be part or full Pit. I was ashamed of my fear, but couldn't overcome it for years. The fear was a result of my being attacked by a Pit Bull while out on a run. It was a life-changer. I've always loved all dogs, and never been afraid of any of them. But after that unprovoked mauling, something broke in my head, and I associated all dogs who looked like the one I was attacked by in one dangerous category. My body would just shut down -- I found it difficult to even move or breath when I saw a Pit.

Fortunately, all that changed for me about two years ago, when a dirty, injured pup lost in traffic dove directly under my parked Jeep and would not move for anything. I tried for three weeks to find his owner, but began hoping I would not be successful. It was clear he'd been abused. He was afraid of everything. Sudden movements, loud voices, even holding something as small as a hairbrush would send him scuttling for the nearest piece of furniture to hide under.

I guess we healed each other over the next few months. God I love that dog. He's my best friend. Never met an animal so tuned in to my emotions, and so eager to please. After major surgery last spring I was bedbound for two weeks. He resolutely refused to leave my side except to eat and go potty now and then.

He's still afraid of most people until he gets to know them, but I no longer have any fear whatsoever of Pit Bulls. I know they have bigger hearts than most breeds, which probably makes them more susceptible to being ruined by a bad owner.

When we go on walks, occasionally I see other people going to lengths to avoid us. That's actually okay with me. I don't know what their history is. And for all I know, a few years down the road they'll have different information and be crossing the street specifically to approach me and ask for a snuggle from my boy.