Mid South Bully Show a Success Despite Being Limited by the Memphis Police Department

The Mid South Bully Connection hosted the first annual Mid South Bully Show in Memphis, Tennessee on June 14, 2008. Several prominent American Pit Bull Terrier breeders attended the show. Richard Barajas, President of the Gottiline Crew and Dave Wilson of Elite Edge were the two special guests.

The show took place at the Mid South Fairground in the old Fireman's Building. This was an American Bully Kennel Club sanctioned event. The doors opened at 10am and the first show started at 1pm.

Before the doors were even opened, Memphis police officers were there trying to shut the show down stating that there were too many dogs present. After reviewing the permits, it was determined that the dogs who were part of the breeder booths could remain as long as the majority were in crates. Any other undeclared dogs would not be allowed to enter the building.

Because of the severe restrictions on the number of dogs who could enter, the show was very limited. Some shows, including the Senior Female Confirmation Class, had only one dog registered.

Despite the limitations that were placed on the event at the last minute by the Memphis Police Department, most of the people in attendance seemed to have a good time.

Several prominent breeders in the pit bull world were present at the event. North Memphis Pits, for example, was represented by Chucky, Tomboy "Free", "Black" Rose and Spirit. Blue Stunna Kennels was represented by Layla G. Some of the other kennels in attendance were Xplicit Pits, The Franchise, Big Block Pits and Memphis Blue Bullies.

The event was very relaxed. All of the dogs present were good stewards of the breed. There were no confrontations, no near fights and no aggression. Well, at least not on the dog's part.

At one point, I noticed a Memphis Animal Control officer walking around. I don't think he ran across any problems. If he did, he handled them very discreetly.

This event was meant to show people that despite the almost constant negative publicity that pit bulls receive, they can be very gentle loving pets if they are raised properly. That point was clearly evident when you saw babies and children playing freely among the dogs.

Yes, the Mid South Bully Show a success. The Mid South Bully Connection is already starting to make plans to host an even bigger event next year. Hopefully, the positive turn out and lack of problems at this year's show will help Memphis to accept the influx of pit bulls and their owners for the event next year.