“Erik Picks A Pittie” By Our Partner Renee Wayne Available Now!

Renee Wayne is a leader of our amazing partner organization Montana Pittie Project as well as a dog treat chef, writer, and human *and* pittie mom. She just released this fabulous children’s book inspired by her son, Erik, and her dog, Bart, and dedicated it to all the pittie advocates out there.

My personal favorite part of the book is how she captures Bart the pit bull’s perspective after all he’s been through. When rescuing an animal, it’s so important to understand how confusing meeting new people and moving from scary places to an unfamiliar home is for them. Decompression time is key and the way a pet behaves in a shelter, in a stressful setting, and even when they are first adopted are not the most accurate representations of the personality they can have when they feel safe. Empathy and patience is key.

We understand that when a person endures trauma or when they are scared, they often don’t behave like themselves and we view their actions through that context. So often, that same grace isn’t extended to rescue animals (especially pit bulls), and is replaced by simple judgement. The voice Renee uses for Bart feels honest and real, but is still easily understandable for young readers.

This book also comes with lesson plans for discussing and teaching empathy, bravery, and rejecting stereotypes with kids, plus a treat recipe and activity pages! 😍 🐾 10/10 recommend, four paws way up!