Dog enthusiasts recognize that it is not the breed of the dog that matters, but how that dog is nurtured, treated, and loved, says ilovemydogsomuch.

Pit Bulls have lost far too many lives as a result of their bad image. But one cop is working to change that perception, one incorrect assumption at a time:

Meet Officer Justin Bruzgul: Office Kiah was saved from a horrific life by Bruzgul. He discovered her tied up in the snow, cold and pleading for assistance. He saw in her what was clear to him: steadfast devotion, intellect, and a golden heart. He recognized her ability to assist others and decided to take Kiah under his wing and teach her to be a K9 officer

Kiah completed the test with flying colors and became New York State’s first Pit Bull K9 officer. Kiah’s rescue and transformation reveals one thing… Pit bulls are wonderful dogs! In fact, in addition to working hard on the job, Kiah and Officer Bruzgul make it their goal to teach people about the breed’s reality. Pit Bulls and Pit Bull mixes are the most common breeds seen in shelters. If more people are made aware of their actual potential and who these dogs truly are, it has the ability to place thousands (if not millions) of canines in forever homes.

The K9 duo has also proved that Pit Bulls are qualified to serve. So, instead of spending, on average, $20,000 for a police dog, police departments can turn to shelters where plenty of qualified dogs sit and wait. Many dogs that are euthanized due to overcrowding can find a new purpose. Isn’t that something to smile about?