What is the Argus Fund?

The Argus Fund was founded in memory of Argus, the Doberman Pinscher, who was a certified rescue and therapy dog. In his short life, Argus touched and changed many people's lives. He had a natural talent for making people smile and bringing them comfort. Argus often surprised people with his natural ears if they had misconceptions about Doberman Pinschers and thinking they were vicious. There are many other breeds of dogs like Doberman's who share the same unfortunate bias and misunderstandings, which are often generated and reinforced by media coverage.

Read Argus' Story!

What is the Argus Friend Program?

As part of the Humane Society's mission, we are committed to educating the public that there is no such breed that is inherently "evil" or "aggressive." Thus, as part of Argus' legacy the Humane Society offers a variety of programs including rebates to adopters of "bully" breeds, or as we like to call them "Argus Friends."

How do I know if the dog I adopt qualifies for an Argus Friend Obedience Rebate?

Individuals who adopt an Argus Friend dog from the Humane Society will automatically qualify for the obedience class rebate and will be given the rebate coupon upon completion of the adoption. The Argus Friend obedience class rebates are designed for beginner and intermediate classes with the ultimate goal of earning Canine Good Citizen (CGC)® for an adopted Argus Friend dog. Learn more about our Obedience Classes.

How do I know who is an Argus Friend?

Argus Friend dogs have special tags on their kennels that indicate they are part of the Argus Friend program. Most of the dogs in the program are those breeds who may be referred to as "bully breeds." These breeds include, but are not limited to:

• German Shepherds

• Rottweilers

• American Pit Bull Terries

• American Staffordshire Terriers

• Doberman Pinschers

What other resources are available through the Argus Friend Program?

Networks and Events: The Humane Society also provides a network and annual events to support new owners of an Argus Friend to celebrate their individual success.

Canine Good Citizen Training: Canine Good Citizen (CGC)® is one of the programs offered by the American Kennel Club to any breed of dog to demonstrate basic manners and friendly disposition. CGC® dogs must be friendly, outgoing, well-manned and safe to have around public. Thus, it is one of the goals of the Argus Friend Program to facilitate the bond between a new owner and an Argus Friend dog through the CGC® training.

Rescue Organizations: Another aspect of the Argus Friend Program will focus on placing these breeds of dogs with higher working drives with a specific rescue organization. Based on their drive, they may be trained to perform specific functions such as search and rescue or police work.

Why is the Argus Friend Program Important?

Each individual successful case in adopting and owning an Argus Friend acts as an ambassador to educate people and promote the idea that there is indeed such thing as a cuddly Pit Bull. These breeds are actually bullied to become outcasts by the misconceptions and images portrayed in media coverage and reinforced by unfounded fear. Almost any dog regardless of breed, can make a great companion when given the opportunity and proper guidance.

Where can I get more information about the Argus Program?

You can download our informational brochure here. Or you can call Namiko Ota-Novesky, Behavior Specialist, at (616) 791-8227 or namiko@hskc.org for more information about the Argus Friend Program and the Argus Friends who are available for adoption here at the Humane Society.