Programs: Education

Our popular free and low cost Pit Ed Classes run weekly in Berkeley every Saturday. Participants work their dogs hard and learn basic handling skills, dealing with breed traits and responsible ownership protocol. Awarded by the American Humane Association in 2006 for Best Practices in Behavior and Training. More Info

Free CGC Coaching Classes help intermediate handlers and their dogs pass the Canine Good Citizen Test. Certified dogs make better breed ambassadors. More Info

Pit Bull Hall is an Ambassador Program operated in partnership with the East Bay SPCA. Five BR dogs rotate through the Oakland EBSPCA kennels. Free classes and materials educate hundreds of visitors each year. For more info: Pit Bull Hall

Conference Workshops for shelters and animal care givers. We focus on understanding breed norms, assessing pit bulls for adoption programs and working with the challenges of housing and training pit bulls. Also: promoting dogs for increased adoption rates, working with volunteers and screening/educating homes for permanent, successful adoptions. Additionally, BAD RAP hosts a yearly Pit Bull Conference in Oakland, CA for animal care professionals. Conference highlights: 2005 and 2006.

Our educational mission reaches the general public through the power of the Internet. Our popular and informative website averages 3000 visitors a day. A large team of volunteers work behind the scenes to answer questions and give help to hundreds who need breed specific advice and referrals.

Outreach Events at Pet Fairs and other venues bring BAD RAP's educational mission to the streets. A dedicated body of volunteers handle demo dogs and answer questions. The BR 'CGC Drill Team' shows off impressive obedience skills to audiences at larger events throughout the bay area. More Info

BR offers Dog Safety Classes to city employees that interact with dogs.

Rescue

BR's successful Foster Care Program serves as a model program for pit bull placement. Carefully screened dogs are home fostered, trained and socialized by pit bull experienced volunteers. Once ready, our 'ambassadors' are offered for adoption to quality, breed educated homes. Nearly 300 pit bulls and pit crosses have found a second chance at life via this program. More Info

Rescue Support. BR supports other rescue efforts by offering free evaluations, training and placement advice.

Owner Support

BR members enjoy free training, online help and discussion, and an understanding network of pit bull owners that can support them during these trying times. Members participate in parades, events and social get togethers. Many organize dog play groups and enjoy the camraderie that can only come from hanging out with like minded souls!