Dogs from Pima County Dogfighting Raid Adopted for Possible Placement With Law Enforcement |
 |
May 9, 2008
 |
| ©LawDogsUSA |
| Some fortunate puppies now have the chance to grow up as heroes, not as fighters. |
Three puppies seized from an alleged dogfighting operation were taken Wednesday from Pima County Animal Control to a facility in Olympia, Wash., to be trained to work with law enforcement.
The Humane Society of the United States facilitated the transfer of the puppies to LawDogsUSA, a non-profit organization that trains former fighting dogs to become bomb, drug and cadaver detection dogs for law enforcement.
After an 11-month investigation, Pima County Sheriff's Department raided four properties last February and seized more than 150 dogs used in an alleged dogfighting ring.
Six people face dogfighting and animal cruelty charges in connection with the raids.
The suspects include Mahlon "Pat" Patrick and T.L. Williams, two iconic figures of the dogfighting underworld.
Pit Bull Pride
"Pit bulls are wonderful, loyal animals, and it is exactly that loyalty that dogfighters exploit to make them become victims of their cruel blood sport," said Diane Jessup, director of LawDogsUSA.
"Our program shows how wonderful pit bulls are and how despicable it is to fight these beautiful animals."
 |
| ©LawDogsUSA |
| The rescued pups are already getting started on their new, important work. |
The three puppies, named Pima, Arizona and Tucson, will begin their training by getting accustomed to social situations and learning how to use their noses to identify different items.
One former LawDogsUSA dog, K9 Moto, was recently awarded an "Animal Hero" award by the Washington State Veterinarian Association for his work as a narcotics detection dog for the Washington State Patrol.
A Second Shot
"Most seized fighting dogs never get a second chance," said John Goodwin, manager of animal fighting issues for The HSUS.
"It's heartwarming to see these lucky puppies have an opportunity at a better life, while being ambassadors for their much-maligned breed."
Pima County Animal Control cared for the more than 150 dogs seized since the raid took place last February.
Most of the dogs seized in the case were recently euthanized because they were determined to be too psychologically damaged to be placed.
Related Links
Pima County Sheriff’s Department Busts Massive Dogfighting Ring
Bloodsport Bust in Arizona
Dogfighting
Dogfighting Fact Sheet
Ranking of State Dogfighting Laws
Taking Action to End Dogfighting: How to Spot the Signs and What You Can Do
HSUS Rewards
