Sunday 23 December 2012

Wallace (the Pitbull) - Book Review

I have recently finished reading Wallace by Jim Gorant, which is the story of Pitbull Wallace and his owner Roo Yori, as they champion flying disk and change perceptions in America.

The story follows Roo Yori as he and his wife, Clara, take on a pitbull from their local shelter, where they volunteer, who is acting out and has behavioural issues which threaten him with euthanization as it is feared he is unadoptable. Roo and Clara see through his problems to the great, intelligent and enthusiastic dog underneath, and fight nail and teeth for him. The results far surpass anything they could have hoped for.

The book is written by sports writer Jim Gorant, author of The Lost Dogs -the story of the pitbulls rescued from Michael Vick's dog fighting ring- and is a little sterile. Whilst giving great detail, it is detached from the characters and can feel more like a report than a story sometimes. However, it is written with a good pace, and if you're interested in pitbulls and their advocacy, it is a must-read. The story is steeped in information about pitbulls and their status in America, and the valuable contribution dog sports give to dog training, behaviour and handling. 

Wallace is currently suffering from ill health, but still continues as a massive beacon of hope for changing the views on pitbulls in America, for the good. 

He is a good dog. 


Wallace's website and facebook page