If you have ever watched Animal Planet's program, "Pit Bulls and Parolees," you will understand the quote by Tia Torres, the director of the Villalobos Rescue Center: "My mission is to rescue. My dream is that one day, I won't have to.

Tia has dedicated her life to saving homeless dogs and shelter pets that would not otherwise have homes. She specializes in the hard-to-place dogs, the ones that the rest of the world discards. Her staff is made up of former prison parolees; another group that has a hard time getting along in the world. They find common ground when it comes to saving dogs. Pit bulls have an unfortunate reputation nowadays, as they are the preferred dog for fighting. They tend to be a breed that has a lot of bad press, as they are many times involved in attacks on people. Their breed fills shelters across this country, and the sad fact is, that many of them never find their forever homes just because they were born a pit bull. They are never given a chance, never given the opportunity to be trained and rehabilitated.

Tia speaks of one day not having to go out and rescue these dogs; that someday the pit bull will become a popular breed again and that people will actually see what a wonderful breed they actually are. So many of them simply need loving, caring, and attention. They actually thrive on that and can become a family's loyal friend.

My family and I have visited, volunteered and donated to many of our local shelters over the years so I grew up knowing what great places these shelters can be, but also how sad a place they can be for some of their residents. I have unfortunately come to know several pit bulls who seem to have become lifetime residents, again just because they were born a pit bull.

The recent Clear the Shelters event brings homeless animals to everyones attention. There are many opportunities for you to help as well. Consider volunteering at your local shelter to help not only pit bulls find a loving home, but all other animals as well. And I guarantee you will find the love and loyalty these dogs can give and your time and attention will mean the world to this disregarded breed.