Baltimore, like many cities in the U.S., is an often unfriendly home to pit bull-type dogs ("Abused pit bulls face a difficult transition," Dec. 10). Frequent victims of prejudice and abuse, these dogs need much help. As I shared with The Sun's Arthur Hirsch, the Maryland Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to addressing some of the root causes for this unfortunate suffering, including pet overpopulation.
Our organization offers a program called "Pit Fix" to spay and neuter these dogs in Baltimore. As in many communities, pit bull-type dogs are often the most-abandoned and mistreated. That's why the Maryland SPCA's clinic focuses on neutering them so that fewer are on the streets suffering. This year, we will fix 9,000 animals. This is one way to make life better for some animals who are often overlooked or harmed. They deserve our compassion and help.
Aileen Gabbey, Baltimore
The writer is executive director of The Maryland SPCA.