How to Recognize the Deadly Signs and Take Action
Last week's indictment of NFL quarterback Michael Vick on charges related to dogfighting has brought national attention to the extreme cruelty of this criminal industry. The Humane Society of the United States, which has campaigned against dogfighting for decades, has found it thriving in both urban and rural areas, and believes that it is on the rise.
Concerned citizens in every community can take steps to identify and report the presence of dogfighting in their communities. Lawmakers have recently passed HSUS-backed legislation to strengthen animal fighting laws in many jurisdictions, and individuals involved in dogfighting face serious penalties if they are prosecuted. Telltale signs include:
- An inordinate number of dogs, often pit bulls, kept in one location, chained and apparently unsocialized.
- Signs of or the obvious presence of a fighting pit.
- Dogs with scars on their faces, front legs and stifle area (hind end and thighs).
- Dogfighting training equipment such as rawhide or tires hanging from trees (that dogs jump up and grab onto) or treadmills.
- The remains of dead fighting animals outside a suspicious location.
- A large number of missing pets. Individuals involved in dogfighting are known to steal cats and smaller dogs for using in training.
- Unusual foot traffic coming and going from a location at odd hours.
Pit bulls can be wonderful family pets, but when they're mistreated by irresponsible owners they can become so damaged that they are dangerous.
The HSUS urges those who suspect dogfighting in their neighborhoods to alert local law enforcement. Local officials can contact The HSUS for practical tools, advice and assistance with investigations and prosecution.
The HSUS has urged the NFL to not allow Vick to play while these charges are pending, and has pressed Nike to end its association with him until the case is resolved. For the most up-to-date information on the Vick case, and a daily blog by The HSUS President Wayne Pacelle with the latest calls-to-action, visit The HSUS website, www.humanesociety.org.
The HSUS offers a standing $2,500 reward for information leading to a conviction of illegal dogfighting.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization -- backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at humanesociety.org.
