Tia Maria Torres, 49, is not only a mother, but a top Pit bull trainer and the founder/owner of Villalobos Rescue Center, the largest rescue organization for Pit bulls, which is located just outside of Los Angeles, CA. She grew up a tough neighborhood and understands what it feels like to be misunderstood.
Animal Planet’s new series called “Pit Bulls and Parolees” follows Torres as she and ex-convicts unite to remove the negative stereotype that is placed with the Pit bull breed. The six-week miniseries will show Torres saving Pit bulls from dangerous situations like dog fighting rings to abusive owners and giving parolees a second chance at life.
“Not many are willing to give a second chance to these parolees,” says Torres, “but I have. And now the ‘bad boys’ of society meet the so-called ‘bad boys’ of the canine community, and boom! Just like that – they create magic together. They bring out a side of each other that’s sweet, warm and unbelievably touching.”
Her animal rescue center rehabilitates over 200 Pit bulls at one time. Torres wants people to “think twice before they judge this breed and the men… who help save them.”
“I know what it’s like to be misunderstood,” says Torres. “I grew up on the edge of society, hanging out in gang-infested neighborhoods and ultimately marrying into that ‘watch-your-back’ way of life. The guys I hire are ones whom no one else wants. I always have wanted to put my ‘bad-girl attitude’ to good use, so I combined my lifestyle with my love for animals by giving parolees the chance to make a real difference.”
Here’s some Fact and Myths about Pit bulls:
Pit bulls and Parolees premieres Friday, October 30, 2009 at 10 PM ET/PT on Animal Planet.
Images courtesy of Animal Planet
