Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Faith.
Hi Alyssa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2011, I rescued a super tiny, 6 week-old puppy that I named Roscoe. Initially, I thought I could foster him until I found him a permanent home, but after a few minutes, I knew deep down that there was zero way I could let go of this pup. I didn’t have any idea as to what breed(s) Roscoe may be. All I knew was he was adorable, and he soon became my little ride-or-die sidekick. As Roscoe grew, I began to realize he was a Pit Bull. I had always heard horror stories about the breed from the media or seen these dogs represented in movies as being aggressive attack dogs.
I began to realize that “Pit Bull” type dogs are really misjudged and misrepresented. There is a huge stereotype surrounding Bully breeds. I wanted a way to show the public how genuinely sweet and loving these dogs are, so I started an Instagram page where I’d post photos of girls and their Pit Bulls in hopes to portray them in a different light. My mission was to represent these dogs in a positive manner by using my platform to educate people on the stereotypes that these dogs face. I created a line of dog-related apparel for humans where proceeds are donated to rescue dogs and breast cancer research. Now, we have a rescue sanctuary where a number of dogs live.
I jokingly call myself the “Mother of Dogs” after Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones.. but instead of dragons, I constantly have puppies and dogs surrounding me wherever I go. It’s my dream come true. I even got to help birth 2 litters of puppies over the past year which was amazingly cool. It’s very rewarding and fun.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely not been easy, but it has always been worth it. It’s a lot of work taking care of so many dogs 24/7. I had a lot of people who doubted my choice to always be around animals, thinking it was almost like I was living in a fantasy. Like “Okay, we get you want to save the dogs. But let’s focus on humans and the real world.” But these dogs are my whole world. It’s difficult networking with rescues because you see countless loving, family dogs that end up in high-kill shelters simply because their owners don’t want them anymore.
People get dogs thinking that they are disposable, and that simply isn’t true. It becomes emotionally draining at times because you see so many dogs that people are trying to re-home and it’s simply impossible. The amount of dogs in shelters is overwhelming, and Pit Bulls make up the largest percentage. There are shelters all throughout the US that are euthanizing dogs on the daily, because they literally just have no room and need to make space for the “new” shelter dogs. It’s seriously horrible. A dog is a commitment. Just like having a child. Don’t get one unless you can make a lifelong promise to take care of it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I run a dog rescue and founded an organization called “Pits and Tits” where we advocate for Bully breeds and breast cancer awareness. I have taken in a variety of rescue dogs that will live out their days with me. I guess the unique part of our rescue is that we also give back to breast cancer. Some people hear “Pits and Tits” and get offended but regardless, the name always catches their attention.. Then they realize our mission and immediately are won over. I mean, who doesn’t love rescue dogs and kicking cancer’s ass? Both of my grandma’s had breast cancer, and I wanted a way to give back to women. We have spots for advertising on Instagram if it’s a brand we truly believe in recommending.
All revenue from brand partnerships goes directly towards funding the rescue’s operational costs i.e.: food, vet bills, medication, beds and shelter. We also have dogs available for adoption throughout the year and network with rescues all throughout the United States and even overseas, to find forever homes for pups.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I’m a born and raised San Diegan. I don’t know any different, and I really could not imagine living anywhere else. I love the vibe of San Diego and how laid back it is. I love the beach and living right next to the ocean. The food is great, and I just feel right at home. To be honest, I don’t really have any dislikes. I love it all. Every part of San Diego holds a different place in my heart as memories have been made in all areas. It’s really meaningful to me!
I guess I don’t like when people come here and disrespect the city, as if they don’t treat it how they would their hometown.
Contact Info:
- Email: hello@pits-and-tits.org
- Website: pits-and-tits.org
- Instagram: instagram.com/pitsandtits
- Other: pits-and-tits.shop
