In Grand Junction, Colorado, the Montrose Bully Breed Club launched a drive for a special state license plate to boost support for pitbull rescues. This effort highlights the groups role in fighting breed stigma and aiding overwhelmed shelters across the Western Slope.
The campaign kicked off recently, aiming to gather 3,000 signatures to move forward with approval from Governor Jared Polis. Local advocates see this as a key step to educate the public and fund vital programs for these loyal dogs.
Meet the Montrose Bully Breed Club
The Montrose Bully Breed Club started as a simple Facebook group in 2017. It grew into a full 501(c)(3) nonprofit, certified by the Pet Animal Care Facilities Act. Today, it serves as a voice for bully breeds in the community through events, training, and outreach.
Jessica Golden, a key figure in the club, shared her passion for the cause. She noted how pitbulls often face unfair judgment based on looks alone. The group works to change that by promoting responsible ownership and showcasing the breeds gentle side.
Members host meetups and partner with local spots to build positive ties. Their selection to lead this statewide initiative marks a big win for the small organization.
Details of the License Plate Drive
This new plate design features elements that celebrate pitbulls positive traits. It acts as a badge of compassion for drivers who want to show support. The club must collect pledges from 3,000 Colorado vehicle owners to qualify under state rules for group special plates.
Once approved, the plates will hit the roads after a design review and production. Similar efforts in the past, like wildlife plates, have raised millions for causes. This one focuses on bully breeds to tackle local issues head on.
The petition launched on a popular platform, drawing quick interest from dog lovers. Early buzz on social media shows community excitement, with shares urging friends to join in.
Pitbull Struggles in Colorado Shelters
Colorado faces a tough reality with animal shelters bursting at the seams. In 2024, state facilities took in nearly 77,000 animals, a drop from 94,000 the year before but still a heavy load. Pitbulls and mixes make up a large share, often around 22 percent of shelter dogs nationwide, and the trend holds here.
Overbreeding on the Western Slope worsens the problem. Mixed breeds with pitbull traits flood local rescues, leaving staff scrambling for space. Advocates point out that stigma leads to longer stays and higher euthanasia rates for these dogs.
Recent changes offer hope, though. Aurora lifted its long standing pitbull ban in late 2024, effective early 2025, after voters approved the repeal. This move eases restrictions and encourages adoptions, but rural areas like Montrose still battle overcrowding daily.
Experts stress that education cuts down on surrenders. Programs teaching proper care could prevent many intakes. The clubs plate idea ties into this by funding awareness drives.
| Shelter Statistic | 2023 Intake | 2024 Intake | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Animals | 94,000 | 77,000 | -18% |
| Dogs (Est.) | 47,000 | 38,500 | -18% |
| Pitbulls/Mixes (Est. 22%) | 10,340 | 8,470 | -18% |
How the Campaign Funds Will Make a Difference
Sales from the plates will directly aid Colorado pitbull rescues. Money goes to education workshops, medical care, and pulling dogs from high kill risks. The club plans to build a dedicated facility on the Western Slope to rehab and rehome bully breeds.
This builds on broader efforts. For instance, a new wolf license plate raised over 1 million dollars in just 21 months for wildlife programs. Animal plates like this prove drivers want to contribute while cruising.
Rescues report success stories that inspire. One recent case involved a surrendered pitbull mix who found a forever home after training. Funds could scale up such outcomes, reducing shelter pressure.
- Key uses for plate revenue:
- Support for vet bills and spay/neuter services.
- Community events to bust breed myths.
- Building a Western Slope rehab center.
- Partnerships with statewide rescues for transport.
Ties to Wider Pitbull Advocacy
This campaign fits into a growing push against breed specific laws in Colorado. Groups like No Kill Colorado fight to end bans in the few spots where they linger. Studies show such rules do little to curb bites but hurt good dogs unfairly.
Public views are shifting. More families adopt pitbulls, drawn to their playful energy. Recent attacks grab headlines, but data reveals any breed can pose risks without proper training. Advocates call for focus on owners, not looks.
The clubs work echoes national trends. Rescues nationwide saved thousands of pitbulls last year through similar fundraisers. In Colorado, tying this to license plates could spark lasting change.
One table shows how other states handle animal plates:
| State | Animal Plate Example | Funds Raised (Recent) |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado | Wolf “Born to Be Wild” | $1M+ in 21 months |
| Texas | Bluebonnet Rescue | $500K annually |
| California | Save the Whales | $2M yearly |
Join the Effort for Pitbull Support
As shelters strain and stigma fades, this license plate stands as a beacon of hope. The Montrose Bully Breed Club invites all Coloradans to sign the petition and spread the word. Your support could save lives and reshape views on these amazing dogs.
Share this story with fellow pet lovers and add your voice today. What do you think about the campaign? Drop a comment below to join the conversation.
