Shame, Shame Verizon

Have you seen the commercial for the new Verizon cell phone Dare? It's horrid in its continual feed upon a negative stereotype of an already misunderstood breed of dog. The American Pitbull Terrier is a gentle and loyal breed of dog that already suffers tremendously from a widespread public fear that, in its hysteria, seeks to destroy each and every dog - from little puppies to family companions to victims of heinous abuse. It is hard enough to help educate the public about the true nature of this once all-American breed of dog, without money-hungry, uneducated ad executives furthering despicable stereotypes just to make a quick buck.

I don't often jump on the petition bandwagon, but I am with this one. I urge everyone to contact Verizon either via e-mail or phone, and voice your concern over this ad. Some of you may not own a bully breed dog, nor may be actively involved with rescue or public education. However, I think we can agree that there is no place for hurtful, negative, violent stereotypes of any dog - regardless of the breed.

If you haven't seen the video click on the link and while your there sign the petition:

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/petition/671819979

Below, I have included a copy of my letter to Verizon. Please feel free to use it in your own e-mail. There is also a contact list for your convenience. Also, take a moment to sign the petition in the link above if you haven't already. You won't regret it!

To all whom this concerns at Verizon,

I was recently horrified by your TV ad for the new LG Dare cell phone. It is disgraceful and disgusting. To portray a breed of dog as aggressive and vicious is serving to alienate many outraged Verizon customers concerned about the humane treatment of all dogs and the negative message you are sending!

Furthermore, your brand of gimmick advertising serves to perpetuate negative breed stereotypes of the American Pit Bull Terrier (aka Pit Bull). This breed already suffers from being demonized by myths, public misconceptions and legislative ignorance regarding dog behavior. Irresponsible ads like yours seek to credit and promote these stereotypes.

I feel that it is my duty as a loving bully breed owner to urge all of my family, friends, and coworkers to cancel their Verizon accounts unless you pull this ad immediately. Exploiting the plight of dogs who suffer as a result of media sensationalism and animal abuse will not be tolerated by a society moving forward to promote animal welfare issues. Do the right thing. Dare to admit the ad was a mistake!

Sincerely,
Jacklyn B.



Who to Contact:

Verizon Corporate Office
140 West Street New York, NY 10007
(800) 621-9900

Bill Kula
william.kula@verizon.com
Director-Media Relations
(972) 718-6924 (o), (214)789-1644 (cell), (972)718-0184 (fax)

Brenda Raney
brenda.raney@verizonwireless.com
Executive director of media relations for Verizon Wireless
(908) 559-7518.

Robert (Bob) Z. Elek
bob.elek@verizon.com
Manager, Media RelationsVerizon Communications
(813) 483-2541

Call Bill Kula, Brenda Raney and Bob Elek directly and leave phone messages anytime. To reach the corporate office, you must call during regular business hours--Put that on your #1 To Do List! Be polite and direct in your request that they pull the LG Dare commercial ad depicting the American Pit Bull Terrier (aka Pit Bull) as a vicious junk yard dog :-(