THE HSUS ON ANIMAL FIGHTING
THE FINAL ROUND
Dogfighting Questions and Answers
What is Dogfighting?
Dogfighting is a sadistic “contest” in which two dogs –
specifically bred, conditioned, and trained to fight – are placed in a pit
(generally a small arena enclosed by plywood walls) to fight each other, for the
spectators’ gambling and entertainment. Fights average nearly an hour in length
and often last more than two hours. Dogfights end when one of the dogs is no
longer willing or able to continue. In addition to these dogfights, there are
reports of an increase in non-organized, more spontaneous street fights in urban
areas.
How does it cause animal suffering?
The inquiries inflicted and sustained by dogs participating in dogfights are
frequently severe, even fatal. The American pit bull terriers used in the
majority of these fights have been specifically bred and trained for fighting
and are unrelenting in their attempts to overcome their opponents. With their
extremely powerful jaws, they are able to inflict severe bruising, deep puncture
wounds, and broken bones. Dogs used in these events often die of blood loss,
shock, dehydration, exhaustion, or infection hours or even days after the fight.
Other animals are often sacrificed as well. Some owners train their dogs for
fights using smaller animals such as cats, rabbits, or small dogs. These “bait”
animals are often stolen pets or animals obtained through “free to good home”
advertisements.
Are there other concerns?
Yes. Numerous law enforcement raids have unearthed many disturbing facets of
this illegal “sport.” Young children are sometimes present at the events, which
can promote insensitivity to animal suffering, enthusiasm for violence, and a
lack of respect for the law. Illegal gambling is the norm at dogfights. Dog
owners and spectators wager thousands of dollars on their favorites. Firearms
and other weapons have been found at dogfights because of the large amounts of
cash present. And dogfighting has been connected to other kinds of violence –
even homicide, according to newspaper reports. In addition, illegal drugs are
often sold and used at dogfights.
What other effects does the presence of dogfighting have on people and
animals in a community?
Dogs used for fighting have been bred for many generations to be dangerously
aggressive toward other animals. The presence of these dogs in a community
increases the risk of attacks not only on other animals but also on people.
Children are especially at risk, because their small size may cause a fighting
dog to perceive a child as another animal.
Why should dogfighting be a felony offense?
There are several compelling reasons. Because dogfighting yields such large
profits for participants, the minor penalties associated with misdemeanor
convictions are not a sufficient deterrent. Dogfighters merely absorb these
fines as part of the cost of doing business. The cruelty inherent in dogfighting
should be punished by more than a slap on the hand. Dogfighting is not a
spur-of-the-moment act; it is a premeditated and cruel practice.
Those involved in dogfighting go to extensive lengths to avoid detection by law
enforcement, so investigations can be difficult, dangerous, and expensive. Law
enforcement officials are more inclined to investigate dogfighting if it is a
felony. As more states make dogfighting a felony offense, those remaining states
with low penalties will become magnets for dogfighters.
Do some states already have felony laws?
Yes. Dogfighting is illegal in all 50 states and a felony offense in almost
every state.
Should being a spectator also be a felony?
Yes. Spectators provide much of the profit associated with dogfighting. The
money generated by admission fees and gambling helps keep this “sport” alive.
Because dogfights are illegal and therefore not widely publicized, spectators do
not merely happen upon a fight; they seek it out. They are willing participants
who support a criminal activity through their paid admission and attendance.
What can I do to help stop dogfighting?
If you live in one of the states where dogfighting is still only a misdemeanor,
please write to your state legislators and urge them to make it a felony. To
find out how your state treats dogfighting, see Dogfighting State Laws or visit
www.hsus.org or www.Animal Fighting.org
The Humane Society
of the United States
2100 L Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037
202-452-1100 * Fax 301-258-3107
www.hsus.org
www.AnimalFighting.org
© 2001 The HSUS. All rights reserved.
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