In April 2007, the nation was shocked when dozens of traumatized pit bulls were discovered during a police raid on a property owned by Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick. The dogs were housed at Bad Newz Kennels, an illegal dogfighting venture operated by Vick and three other men. At Bad Newz Kennels, poor-performing dogs were executed, and many of those that survived showed signs of past injuries and psychological trauma. Many people believed that these pit bulls were too far gone to be rehabilitated and should be put down, but 47 were given a chance at a better life. The 22 toughest cases were sent to Dogtown.
Follow the journeys of four of the most challenging dogs — Cherry, Meryl, Denzel, and Georgia — as Dogtown’s team of dedicated experts works to help them overcome their violent pasts and live happier, healthier lives. On the front lines with the Vick dogs are assistant dog care manager and trainer John Garcia; dog care manager Michelle Besmehn; veterinarian Dr. Patti Iampietro; and trainer Ann Allums.
Challenges await them. Cherry, who may have been used as bait to train more aggressive fighters, was so terrified of people when he first arrived at Best Friends that he flattened himself to the ground at the first glimpse of a human and refused to be walked on a leash. Can Michelle help him overcome his paralyzing fears and possibly become ready for adoption?
Meryl is so seriously aggressive and unpredictable that she was ordered by the court to stay permanently at Dogtown. But Ann is not the sort of trainer who backs down from a challenge. Through reward-focused obedience and agility training, Ann helps Meryl gain confidence and feel good about herself. Although Meryl can never be adopted, she now has a chance at a happy life at Best Friends’ Dogtown.
Denzel arrives with a potentially life-threatening illness and Dogtown’s medical team must determine what’s making him so sick. He’s diagnosed with a tick-borne illness sometimes found in fighting dogs. At first he seems to respond to treatment, but he soon relapses. Can a new medication help Denzel recover?
Georgia's body tells the story of her hard life. She has the scars of a prized fighter, and shows signs of having had many litters. Somewhere along the way, her teeth had all been pulled, possibly so she could be forcibly bred. Can John help her learn to trust humans and other dogs so she’ll have the chance to find a loving, forever home? To watch videos and learn more, visit the official Nat Geo Dogtown site.
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