PINUPS FOR PITBULLS
Calendar of burlesque beauties benefits bully breeds
Advocacy never looked so good! Non-profit organization Pinups for Pitbulls is taking aim at Pitbull stereotypes with the goal of restoring the image of bully breeds to that of America’s sweetheart.
Deirdre “Little Darling” Franklin founded the organization after learning about the unacceptable euthanasia of many healthy, adoptable dogs simply due to their classification as a Pitbull-type breed. She became passionate about advocacy and education, and, using her modeling and education in fine arts, created the very first Pinups for Pitbulls calendar in 2007. (She has since earned her Master’s Degree in Public Policy from Drexel University and speaks on the issues facing Pitbull-type dogs throughout the country.)
The calendar proved an instant success and has become the cornerstone of the organization’s education efforts. 100 percent of the proceeds are used to continue educating the public on the history and plight of bully breeds, and raise awareness about the inefficacy and inherent cruelty of Breed Specific Legislation.
The hallmark of the calendar is timeless photos of beauties with bully breed dogs. This year’s calendar photos span the decades with colourful depictions of Pitbulls as loving companions or ambassadors of wartime strength. Rather than hiring professional models, Pitbulls for Pinups seeks everyday people with a passion for the cause. Each year, they hold an open application and encourage anyone who is interested in helping spread the message to apply. “One of the most interesting aspects of the Pitbulls for Pinups calendar is that we do not choose ‘models’,” says Jeffington Bear, Treasurer, Pinups For Pitbulls. “We seek everyday people who are more interested in providing a voice for these dogs. We have had people from all walks of life and backgrounds featured in the calendars.”
In addition, Pitbulls For Pinups helps over 1000 dogs annually find a safe forever home by partnering with smaller organizations that can benefit from their audience reach to help promote adoption or fostering. You can help make a difference by making a donation or purchasing their upcoming 2021 “Greatest Pits” calendar, currently available for pre-order. Get yours now—they sell out every year!