This weekend isn't just St. Patty's Day -- it's also St. Pittie's Day, for all pit bull owners and aspirational pit parents.
If you're grimacing at that pun, take it up with the Denver Animal Shelter (DAS), which is hosting two days of festivities Friday and Saturday in a push to get pit bulls adopted and properly permitted in line with city laws.
The event aims to "highlight what loving companions pit bulls make when given the right training, care, and environment," according to the shelter. "DAS hopes to spread awareness about the bully breeds, find homes for current adoptable dogs at the shelter, and offer free services for pittie owners to comply with Denver laws."
This weekend, adoption fees for pit bulls will be half off, and adopting families will receive a free collar, harness and dog toys. Adoption fees typically range from $100 to $170. Permits and assessments will also be free for pit bulls that have a current rabies vaccine, are spayed or neutered and have a microchip.
The permits are a relatively new policy in Denver.
After a string of high-profile attacks by pit bulls on Denver residents in the 1980s, the city banned the breed from the city entirely. In 2020, Denver voters overturned the ban, opting instead for a permitting process, which involves a breed assessment, fees and an emergency contact. If, after three years of permits, the pit bull has no violations, the dog no longer needs a specific pit bull permit.
You can check out the dogs available for adoption here. And if you already have a pit bull, you can get a free professional pet portrait on Saturday between noon and 3 p.m. at the shelter at 1241 W. Bayaud Ave. (If your dog takes a particularly cute portrait, you know where to find our inbox.)
