Do you believe pit bulls are misbehaved dogs? Do you think rescuing animals is a waste of time? Do you disagree with adopting an energetic pet? Well, Giana Porcaro, a fellow Highlander here at Doherty Memorial High School, says otherwise! Rescuing Cannoli has been a blessing for her and family, and her responses in this interview will leave you with a wholesome view of just how much dogs truly positively impact your daily life.
Meet Cannoli!

Q: What’s an average day like for Cannoli?
CANNOLI: “An average day for me is lots of sleeping, eating, and ripping up my toys.”
Q: What do you enjoy doing most in your free time?
CANNOLI: “I enjoy chasing after animals in the yard!”
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do together with your human?
CANNOLI: “My favorite thing to do is play fetch!”
Q: How do you feel when your human leaves the house?
CANNOLI: “I feel sad when she leaves the house.”

Q: What makes you feel safe and comfortable?
CANNOLI: “My dogs toys make me feel safe and comfortable.”
Q: What’s your favorite toy or game you like to play?
CANNOLI: “My favorite toy is a rope toy.”
Q: What’s your favorite way to relax?
CANNOLI: “My favorite way to relax is sleeping.”
Q: How do you feel when you meet new people or animals?
CANNOLI: “I’m skittish at first, then I warm up to them!”

Q: What makes you go into “fight or flight” mode?
CANNOLI: “When I have to take a bath, then I immediately go into fight or flight mode!”
Q: What’s your favorite way to get attention from your human?
CANNOLI: “My favorite way to get her attention is to start hysterically crying.”
Q: What’s the best part of your day?
CANNOLI: “The best part of my day is going for a walk with my human.”
Q: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?
CANNOLI: “One word that best describes myself is clumsy.”
And now, let’s a look at Giana’s story!
Q: Can you tell me about your pet and how they became a part of your life?
GIANA: “My dog Cannoli is a 45 lbs pit bull mix that is from the animal shelter. In October of 2023, we rescued him!”
Q: How old is Cannoli?
GIANA: “Cannoli is 1 year old and his birthday is on June 1st.”
Q: Who decided to name your pet and why?
GIANA: “We decided to make his name Cannoli because we are Italian.”
Q: What is Cannoli’s personality like?
GIANA: “Cannoli is clumsy with lots of energy.”
Q: What is Cannoli’s favorite treat?
GIANA: “Cannoli likes the milk bones!”

Q: Does Cannoli know any tricks?
GIANA: “Cannoli knows how to sit, stay, roll over, speak, close the door, lay down, and I also taught him how to jump through a hula hoop!”
Q: What’s your favorite memory or “tradition” with Cannoli that always makes you smile?
GIANA: “My favorite tradition with Cannoli is his birthday!”
Q: What do you think Cannoli would say if he could talk for a day?
GIANA: “Cannoli would constantly be begging for treats if he could speak.”

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering getting a pet?
GIANA: “I would advise someone to get a low maintenance dog.”
Q: What’s the most rewarding thing about being a pet owner?
GIANA: “The most rewarding part of being a pet owner is when your dog behaves well.”

So, has your opinion changed on pit bulls? After hearing how Cannoli spends his days with Giana, does the idea of adopting an active dog seem a bit more rewarding? Giana’s experience with the well-behaved and loving Cannoli proves just how a pet companion can bring the right kind of energy into a household! Rescuing Cannoli wasn’t just about getting a dog – it was about building a lifelong bond with him. Giana, Cannoli, and I hope their story will inspire you to recognize the positive impact a dog – or any pet – can have on our daily lives. Thanks for sticking with us!