If the Staffie situation is affecting anyone it's our veterinary friends. Dismayed owners are presenting their vets with a real dilemma; "I can't keep it and there is no one there for my dog. Perhaps a cover-up with vets given wrong or exaggerated information to achieve the same outcome. But yes, when it comes to a Staffie, there is little scope to argue. "There is no one out there" testified by spending days on the phone, like so many families have already done. So the person's justification; they can off load and walk away. "He is growling at my children; he nipped/bit my child." In their minds they justify their decision, what does it matter, we all know this Staffie has nowhere to go. They make the decision to put to sleep healthy and often first class Staffies and, bless them, they do the deed. What does the last label or impression in the vets mind for this dog matter.  The truth is it was an impulsive buy, too bouncy for us; we don't have time; he's not a cute puppy anymore.

Within council pounds, the decision might be made in conjunction with a vet. "Lets save 1 of the 6, which one do we save and hold for another two weeks in hope we get a rescue place". More often the decision is already made "5 on the list today"; "Just another Staffie" a sad look; a slight raise of the eye brow. In establishments where it is the last resort some tears must be shed ... perform a paid duty please. Sickened, the vet carries out this duty in a professional & caring way to make those last moments as pleasant as they can. They know it's forbidden and when putting the needle into a Staffie, never look in those eyes. 

Prevention is ultimately the cure. Vet teams making themselves aware of the bull breed dilemma and as a caring team agree to:

1: Promote neutering with this breed type in particular, as it is so abused. Have the debate with those who can and can't afford as to the Staffie plight.

2: Offer reduced costs for bull breed and bull breed crosses.

3: The ultimate: Publically display it.

Not in prejudice against the breed but in concern and love for the breed.

Introduce the idea when Staffie pups are presented for vaccination or adults need care. When a Staffie comes loose from its home, they are at grave risk if unneutered of being exploited as a breeding machine. Plant the seed that life would be a whole lot easier if they didn't have to manage another season and it can so easily prevent associated reproductory illnesses and disease. By the time they get talk with us, the rescuers, it's too late. Explain their dog can enjoy more freedom off lead knowing he isn't going to find a dog in season; the Staffie cross in the making. It's like the environment contribution - we are all drips in the ocean, but just saving a litter being born is 6-7 lives saved from possible abuse or suffering premature deaths.