Dog fighting is a felony and illegal in the United States yet this abhorrent activity continues to go on. Dog fighting is when two dogs are forced to fight each other until a winner is announced. That happens when one dog fails to scratch, one dog dies, or one dog jumps out of the pit.

By the ASPCA’s estimate, hundreds of thousands of dogs are starved, abused, and forced to fight every single year in America. If we all remain aware and proactive, we can end this blood sport for good.

The ASPCA strongly suggests contacting local authorities immediately if you see signs of dog fighting. This includes:

1.    Dogs with multiple scars, possibly with lips or ears ripped off.

2.    Pit bull-mix-type dogs weighing approximately 40-50 pounds.

3.    Dogs on heavy chains, tethered to a tire axle or dog house/barrel.

4.    Dirt ring around the dog.

5.    Dogs chained inches apart from one another.

6.    Dogs chained or penned in a secluded area intentionally kept out of the public’s view. (Their ears may also be cropped.)

If you are unsure how to report any type of animal cruelty, go to https://www.aspca.org/take-action/report-animal-cruelty to learn more.

By Aneika Wynn