Ocean Center going to the dogs

The pit bull has a bad rap, and Christine Maxwell is on a mission to change that with the American bully, a newer breed produced using a foundation of the American pit bull terrier and the American Staffordshire terrier. To make her point, Maxwell is hosting American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC) dog shows across the United States, including a stop at the Ocean Center this Saturday, Feb. 22.  

“There’s currently a stigma around the American bully breed, and I want to change people’s perceptions,” said Maxwell. “The American bully is bred to be a calmer, family dog and to teach people to breed for a purpose. These events are an opportunity for the public to see firsthand how beautiful and friendly the breed can be.”

Over the last year, Maxwell has taken her Bully Classic across the United States, including stops in Dallas, Texas; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Shreveport, Illinois. The events feature four tournaments in one, with winners selected from each of the four judges. Award categories include Best Shorty Bull, Best XL, Best Standard, Champion Bully, Best Frenchy, and Best in Show.  Dogs selected as winners can then compete for championships.

Saturday’s ABKC Bully Classic II begins at 8 a.m. and is open to the public. Adult admission is $20, and children 12 and under are free. For more information, visit www.theabkcdogs.org/events/.