Dog fighting is the sadistic practice of pitting two dog-aggressive dogs against each other in a ring to fight until death, or close to death, for the fiscal gain of the dog’s handlers and the spectators of these so-called sporting events. Fighting dogs are beaten, isolated from human interaction, starved and taught to fight. They are force-bred and are used as revenue generators for their handlers and left for dead on the side of the street when they no longer produce revenue. Dog fighting attracts human violence along with illegal firearms, drugs and gambling. Given these factors, the “sport” is illegal in every state in the country and a felony offence in most. Given the penalties involved and than popular opinion denounces dog fighting it is surprising that it is still so popular among certain socioeconomic sub-groups in American culture. Perhaps one reason for this is the difficulty involved with catching and prosecuting dog fighters. While it is not advisable to try and break up a dog fighting ring yourself; there are things you can do to help stop this cruel blood sport.
Dog fighting is an organized support, but it remains underground due to its illegal status. Dog fighting events can be extremely spontaneous and are advertised only through word of mouth or secret communications on social networking sites. Fighting rings are makeshift and comprised of plywood so they are easily broken down if the authorities arrive. Fights are often held in back allies, basements, abandoned buildings or empty fields in remote locations. They are not held in arenas or stadiums where police can easily find and arrest suspects. Because fight locations can change from week to week or even day to day it is important for you to take action immediately.
Do not wait to call the proper authorities until you have more evidence. Do not attempt to investigate at all; simply notify the police, animal control and the local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals if applicable in your area. While you should not take action to stop or investigate a dog fighting ring it will not hurt to be proactive when registering your complaint or tip. Do not let the information you have slip through the cracks. Find all of the appropriate names and numbers of local law enforcement and animal rights groups and keep them on file. When reporting suspicious activity make sure to record the date, time and person you spoke to. Once you have this information make follow up calls as required to encourage the appropriate action or investigation. Be polite, but be firm. Make sure they know you expect a follow up or status update.
While investigation and arrest is up to the proper authorities there are actions you can take at home to help stop this cruel sport or increase the penalties involved. If you live in one of the states where dog fighting is still a misdemeanor, you can write to your state legislators and urge them to make it a felony offense. You can also to write letters to the media to increase public awareness of the dangers of dog fighting and to law enforcement officials or prosecutors and judges to urge them to take the issue seriously. If you need help with sample letters or in organizing petitions there are resources. Try your local ASPCA, Humane Society or any number of local dog rescue groups, especially those who specialize in helping Pit Bull type dogs. They are always pleased to assist when anyone wants to help these abused dogs.
When creating a petition or letter writing campaign always remember to support your position with facts and remain polite. By refraining to resort to personal attacks or frothy emotional appeal you will demonstrate that you are able to make a reasonable argument based on the facts of your case. When attempting to influence policy decisions the old adage that the pen is mightier than the sword is completely appropriate. It is also true that there is strength in numbers so get your friends, family members and co-workers involved in the noble cause of stopping the senseless abuse of innocent dogs.
Submitted by a site with invisible fences, dog training collars and elevated dog feeders.
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