The HSUS Calls on the NFL to Stop Fumbling on Dogfighting

©The HSUS

Fighting dogs can suffer injury and neglect—if they survive at all.

A recent comment by Washington Redskins player Clinton Portis has ignited calls of protest from The Humane Society of the United States, who say the comment insulted law enforcement and humane societies nationwide that are working to protect animals and communities from the violence of dogfighting. 

Referring to Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, under investigation for dogfighting, Portis said, "I think people should mind their business ... I don't know if he was fighting dogs or not, but it's his property, his dog, if that's what he wants to do, do it. If it's behind closed doors, it's okay."

The NFL should demand an explanation and hold the star running back accountable for endorsing a blood sport that is a felony in 48 states, said The Humane Society of the United States. 

Each year, thousands of pit bulls and other dogs are matched in vicious contests that always result in severe injuries and often end in death. Once a secretive, underground activity largely confined to rural areas, dogfighting has expanded to the inner cities, is glorified in rap videos, and is openly embraced as a macho symbol of hip hop culture.

Has The NFL Gone to The Dogs?

The Vick investigation began in late April when police raided his 15-acre property in Virginia looking for drugs. They found 60 pit bulls and similar breeds, some scarred and in poor condition. A large amount of evidence including veterinary medications, blood-soaked carpeting, and fighting paraphernalia was also seized.

The HSUS said it is a troubling indication that some professional football players see nothing wrong with this criminal activity. The flippant way in which Portis dismissed the cruelty of dogfighting, and the allegations against Vick, are a sign that the subculture has taken root in the NFL and is not being seriously addressed by the league.

In a May 3 letter to Commissioner Roger Goodell, HSUS President and CEO Wayne Pacelle offered HSUS collaboration to investigate and eradicate any illegal animal fighting. Three former players have been associated with pit bull contests including LeShon Johnson, who has twice been convicted on dogfighting charges. Goodell has not responded to Pacelle's letter.

In light of the Portis comments, The HSUS renewed the offer to the Commissioner to share an extensive knowledge and experience with dogfighting and to work collaboratively to root out any in the NFL who may be involved.

Inadequate Responses

Portis, a talented athlete and star running back, is a role model for many young men in the Washington, D.C. area and beyond.  His recent comments may serve to encourage young men and boys to become involved in this violent crime. The running back, who has blithely dismissed animal cruelty at best, and endorsed a felony crime at worst, should be held accountable for his comments, and the NFL should issue a zero-tolerance policy against this activity, said The HSUS.

In an effort to quell the furor that has erupted in the wake of his open support of Vick, the Redskins on released a statement by Portis on May 22 which said: "I want to make it clear I do not take part in dogfighting or condone dogfighting in any manner."

If the allegations against Vick result in criminal charges and he is convicted, the NFL should sanction him with a significant fine and suspension, said The HSUS. Anything less would dismiss the seriousness of the crime and send a message that the NFL is willing to tolerate a cruel and violent felony pastime.

What You Can Do

Ask NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to crack down on dogfighting by NFL players.

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Dogfighting Fact Sheet