Dog Fighting
A community problem-why should you care?
Dog fighting has become a serious issue within our community. Would you know how to recognize and report suspected dog fighting activities? Dog fighting is against the law and is linked to many other illegal and criminal activities. Dog fighters are often involved in illegal gambling, the sale and possession of drugs, as well as illegal weapons.• Dog fighters and spectators have a history of violent and criminal behavior toward people.• Dog fighting is an entertainment activity for gangs.• Dogs trained for fighting have been known to viciously attack innocent people for no apparent reason.•It is not uncommon for dog fighters or spectators to involve their children in dog fighting. Research shows young children who view this type of violence have a greater acceptance of aggressive attitudes and behavior. These children are taught to believe that it’s okay to inflict the cruelties they observe and that dog fighting is an acceptable practice.
Signs of Dog Fighting:• Ownership of several adult dogs and/or puppies that are confined by thick chains with or without weights on their collars.• Tires or other items suspended from trees to provide jaw strengthening activities.• Hand walking, jogging or using a treadmill.• A “cat mill” which confines a cat, rabbit or other small animal to encourage the dog to chase it -may be present. As a reward for its hard work, the dog will be permitted to capture and kill the confined animal.
