It started with a calendar and a vision. The mission was simple, to raise money for animal welfare organizations while showing the world what they already knew – that pit bulls are just like any other dog, cherished family companions.
Since 2004,
The Unexpected Pit Bull has crafted and curated calendars filled to the brim with captivating accounts of dogs and their families. The stories and the images of the companionship may be “unexpected” to some, but they come as no surprise to those with a pit bull.
“It’s important to us that we not only feature the dogs themselves but that we show them in the context of their relationships with their people as well. We want to feature the canine-human bond at its finest.” – Hanna Fushihara, The Unexpected Pit Bull
Take Rico’s story, for example. One that is very special to the organization. When he and his family needed assistance with veterinary services,
BADRAP’s Keep ‘Em Home Project was able to help them thanks to funding provided by The Unexpected Pit Bull. He and his family got the help they so desperately needed and they paid it forward by volunteering at Keep 'Em Home outreach events. Now they’re sharing their love for Rico in this year’s calendar in a fitting tribute. It is bittersweet as Rico passed away this year but his story lives on, as does the incredible bond he shared with this family.
That's what makes this calendar so special, dogs like Rico continue to pay it forward by sharing their stories with everyone who buys their calendar, with all proceeds going to help more dogs. The Unexpected Pit Bull is made possible through calendar sales, proud sponsors (like Earth Rated) and merchandise. The proceeds help a number of organizations with services like spay/neuter, training, socialization and enrichment for dogs who are victims of cruelty, who sometimes have to spend extended amounts of time in shelters during ongoing court cases.
Humble brag: One of Earth Rated's own dogs also graced the pages of The Unexpected Pit Bull in 2016 as Miss July.
If you’re looking for a special gift for anyone who loves dogs, or maybe even just to treat yourself, consider a calendar. It’s available for purchase on The Unexpected Pit Bull’s website. With all proceeds going to charity it's basically guilt free shopping! And it pairs perfectly with a box of poop bags for the ultimate dog lovers gift.
Photo credits
Chantal Levesque
Marilou Leger
Kerry Rubio - Bark at the Moon Photography
Sara Cozolino Photography
Kaylee Greer - Dog Breath Photography
