How to Report Dog Fighting

Dog fighting is a brutal blood sport that harms dogs, people and even whole neighborhoods. Dog fighting is gaining popularity even though it is illegal in all 50 states and a felony in most. If you know what to look for, you can report dog fighting in your neighborhood and help stop the problem. Read on to learn how to report dog fighting.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Understand the problems with dog fighting. Not only is dog fighting cruel to the dogs involved, it is also a form of illegal gambling and gang entertainment, bringing more crime to the neighborhood. Often, children are present at dog fights. Exposure to this sort of violence can lead children to become abusive adults.

2. Check dogs for signs. A fighting dog, especially a pit bull, will often have short cropped ears. Be suspicious of dogs that seem to be continuously injured, especially with puncture wounds or scars.

3. Watch for large groups of people, some with dogs, arriving or leaving a residence or another area in groups. Sometimes you can hear dog fighting. There will be cheering and the general sounds of a party. The sound of the dogs fighting may be drowned out by the cheering.

4. Look at areas where dogs are kept. Fighting dogs are generally chained in backyards or indoors, and multiple dogs are usually kept together. Sometimes, heavy weights are attached to the dogs' collars.

5. Stay away from dog fight areas and dog fighters, as they may be armed and you will not be able to stop them yourself. Just get close enough to be able to report information to the police. For example, know the address at which the suspicious activity is taking place but don't approach it to investigate for yourself.

6. Call 911 to report dog fighting. Be ready to provide the address and the reasons you believe dog fighting is occurring. Ask to be anonymous if you live in the area and fear retribution.

7. Follow up with your local Humane Society or animal protection organization to find out more about dog fighting in your community.

Tips & Warnings

• Though pit bulls are most commonly used for dog fighting, other breeds are used as well.
• Dog fighting isn't just an urban issue. More rural areas have game dogging rings, which are just as cruel as street dog fighting but not as overt in their criminal behavior. They also tend to be more professional overall, and attract bigger money than street fights.
• Don't automatically assume that a pit bull is a fighting dog. Pit bulls make excellent companion dogs, and many responsible, caring people keep them as pets.
• Don't attempt to rescue a fighting dog yourself. Fighting dogs are trained to be highly aggressive and need rehabilitation to be safely handled. Instead, contact a dog rescue organization in your area.

Resources

• Advocacy Site for Pit Bulls
• Humane Society for Information About Dog Fighting