Dog fighting - one of the most serious forms of animal abuse
Dog fighting is a form of blood sport in which game dogs are made to fight, sometimes to the death. It is illegal in most developed countries. Dog fighting is used for entertainment and may also generate revenue from stud fees, admission fees and gambling. Dog fighting is a blood sport that has been practised for centuries around the world. Blood sports involving the baiting of animals has occurred since antiquity, most famously at the Colosseum in Rome during the reign of the Roman Empire.
For over six hundred years the pastime flourished, reaching the peak of its popularity during the 16th century. The various animal types involved in the bait allowed for the breed specialization and basic anatomical forms of fighting dogs, which we see today.
For over six hundred years the pastime flourished, reaching the peak of its popularity during the 16th century. The various animal types involved in the bait allowed for the breed specialization and basic anatomical forms of fighting dogs, which we see today.
Accounts of dog fighting in China date back to 240 A.D.
Dog fighting has been documented in the recorded history of many
different cultures, and is presumed to have existed since the initial
domestication of the species. Many breeds have been bred specifically
for the strength, attitude, and physical features that would make them
better fighting dogs.
Scholars speculate that large-scale human migration, development of trade, and gifts between royal courts of valuable fighting dogs facilitated the spread of fighting dog breeds. There are many accounts of military campaigns which used fighting dogs, as well as royal gifts in the form of large dogs.
Before the 19th century, bloodsports such as bull baiting, bear baiting and cock fighting were common. Bulls brought to market were set upon by dogs as a way of tenderizing the meat and providing entertainment for the spectators; and dog fights with bears, bulls and other animals were often organized as entertainment for both royalty and commoners.
Scholars speculate that large-scale human migration, development of trade, and gifts between royal courts of valuable fighting dogs facilitated the spread of fighting dog breeds. There are many accounts of military campaigns which used fighting dogs, as well as royal gifts in the form of large dogs.
Before the 19th century, bloodsports such as bull baiting, bear baiting and cock fighting were common. Bulls brought to market were set upon by dogs as a way of tenderizing the meat and providing entertainment for the spectators; and dog fights with bears, bulls and other animals were often organized as entertainment for both royalty and commoners.
Early dogs of the bull terrier type were bred for the working characteristic known as gameness, with the pitting of dogs against bear or bull testing this attribute along with the strength and skill of the dog.
These early "proto-staffords" provided the ancestral foundation stock for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. This common ancestor was known as the "Bull and Terrier".
These bloodsports were officially eliminated in 1835 as Britain began to introduce animal welfare laws. Since dogfights were cheaper to organize and far easier to conceal from the law than bull or bear baits, bloodsport proponents turned to pitting their dogs against each other instead.
These early "proto-staffords" provided the ancestral foundation stock for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. This common ancestor was known as the "Bull and Terrier".
These bloodsports were officially eliminated in 1835 as Britain began to introduce animal welfare laws. Since dogfights were cheaper to organize and far easier to conceal from the law than bull or bear baits, bloodsport proponents turned to pitting their dogs against each other instead.
Dog fighting was used as both a bloodsport (often involving gambling) and a way to continue to test the quality of their stock. For decades afterward, dog fighting clandestinely took place in pockets of working-class Britain and America.
Dogs were released into a pit, and the last dog still fighting (or occasionally, the last dog surviving) was recognized as the winner. The foundation breed of the fighting dog was, in its outward appearance, a large, low, heavy breed with a powerful build and strongly developed head. Dog breeding in its earliest stages was carried out systematically, with the desire for specialization.
Dogs were released into a pit, and the last dog still fighting (or occasionally, the last dog surviving) was recognized as the winner. The foundation breed of the fighting dog was, in its outward appearance, a large, low, heavy breed with a powerful build and strongly developed head. Dog breeding in its earliest stages was carried out systematically, with the desire for specialization.
It is believed that the development of individual breeds took place in narrow geographic areas, corresponding to the performance required in these regions. Selection for performance, complemented by the breeding for suitable body forms, led to the formation of breeds. The task of the fighting dog demands specific anatomical traits and temperamental features. The goal is to breed a dog that will attack animals but is docile and affectionate toward humans.
All breeds with a character suitable for protecting humans and fighting wild animals may be considered for dogfighting. Special attention is often given to the American Pit Bull Terrier or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. People who engage in this animal cruelty claim that dogs like it and want to fight - in fact, the dogs have forced to learn to always be in defense position and fight for their lives
There are no pictures of happy and joyful dogs to find.
All breeds with a character suitable for protecting humans and fighting wild animals may be considered for dogfighting. Special attention is often given to the American Pit Bull Terrier or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. People who engage in this animal cruelty claim that dogs like it and want to fight - in fact, the dogs have forced to learn to always be in defense position and fight for their lives
There are no pictures of happy and joyful dogs to find.
European history
Blood sports in general can be traced back to the Roman Empire. In 13 B.C., for instance, the ancient Roman circus slew 600 African beasts. Likewise, under Emperor Claudius's reign, as spectators cheered, 300 bears and 300 Libyan beasts were slain in the Colosseum. Dog fighting, more specifically, can also be traced to ancient Roman times. In 43 AD, for example, dogs fought alongside the Romans and the British in the Roman Conquest of Britain.
In this war,the Romans used a breed that originated from Greece called Molossus; the Britons used broad-mouth Mastiffs, which were thought to descend from the Molossus bloodline and which also originated from Greece. Though the British were outnumbered and ultimately lost this war, the Romans were so impressed with the English Mastiffs that they began to import these dogs for use in the Colosseum, as well as for use in times of war. While spectators watched, the imported English Mastiffs were pitted against animals such as wild elephants, lions, bears, bulls, and gladiators.
In this war,the Romans used a breed that originated from Greece called Molossus; the Britons used broad-mouth Mastiffs, which were thought to descend from the Molossus bloodline and which also originated from Greece. Though the British were outnumbered and ultimately lost this war, the Romans were so impressed with the English Mastiffs that they began to import these dogs for use in the Colosseum, as well as for use in times of war. While spectators watched, the imported English Mastiffs were pitted against animals such as wild elephants, lions, bears, bulls, and gladiators.
Later, the Romans bred and exported fighting dogs to Spain, France and other parts of Europe until eventually these dogs made their way back to England. Though bull baiting and bear baiting were popular throughout the Middle Ages up to the 19th century in Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, and Holland, the British pitted dogs against bulls and bears on a scale like no other.
In 12th century England during the feudal era, the landed aristocracy, who held direct military control in decentralized feudal systems and thus owned the animals necessary for waging war, introduced bull baiting and bear baiting to the rest of the British population. In later years, bull baiting and bear baiting became a popular source of entertainment for the British royalty.
For instance, Queen Elizabeth I, who reigned from 1558-1603, was an avid follower of bull and bear baiting; she bred Mastiffs for baiting and would entertain foreign guests with a fight whenever they visited England. In addition to breeding Mastiffs and entertaining foreign guests with a fight, Queen Elizabeth, and later her successor, King James I, built a number of bear gardens in London. The garden buildings were round and roofless, and housed not only bears, but also bulls and other wild animals that could be used in a fight. Today, a person can visit the Bear Garden museum near the Shakespeare Global Complex in Bankside, Southwark.
In 12th century England during the feudal era, the landed aristocracy, who held direct military control in decentralized feudal systems and thus owned the animals necessary for waging war, introduced bull baiting and bear baiting to the rest of the British population. In later years, bull baiting and bear baiting became a popular source of entertainment for the British royalty.
For instance, Queen Elizabeth I, who reigned from 1558-1603, was an avid follower of bull and bear baiting; she bred Mastiffs for baiting and would entertain foreign guests with a fight whenever they visited England. In addition to breeding Mastiffs and entertaining foreign guests with a fight, Queen Elizabeth, and later her successor, King James I, built a number of bear gardens in London. The garden buildings were round and roofless, and housed not only bears, but also bulls and other wild animals that could be used in a fight. Today, a person can visit the Bear Garden museum near the Shakespeare Global Complex in Bankside, Southwark.
With the popularity of bull and bear baiting, bears needed for such fights soon became scarce. With the scarcity of bear population, the price of bears rose and, because of this, bull baiting became more common in England over time. Bulls who survived the fights were slaughtered afterwards for their meat, as it was believed that the fight caused bull meat to become more tender.
In fact, if a bull was offered for sale in the market without having been baited the previous day, butchers were liable to face substantial fines. Animal fights were temporarily suspended in England when Oliver Cromwell seized power, but were reinstated again after the Restoration.
Dog fighting, bear baiting, and bull baiting were officially outlawed in England by the Humane Act of 1835. The official ban on all fights, however, actually served to promote dog fighting in England. Since a small amount of space was required for the pit where a dog fight took place, as compared to the ring needed for bull or bear baiting, authorities had a difficult time enforcing the ban on dog fighting.
In fact, if a bull was offered for sale in the market without having been baited the previous day, butchers were liable to face substantial fines. Animal fights were temporarily suspended in England when Oliver Cromwell seized power, but were reinstated again after the Restoration.
Dog fighting, bear baiting, and bull baiting were officially outlawed in England by the Humane Act of 1835. The official ban on all fights, however, actually served to promote dog fighting in England. Since a small amount of space was required for the pit where a dog fight took place, as compared to the ring needed for bull or bear baiting, authorities had a difficult time enforcing the ban on dog fighting.
Breed origins
According to one scholar, Richard Strebel, the foundation for modern fighting dogs came from: 1. The Tibetan Dog; 2. The Mastiff, out of which came the Bordeaux dog, the English Bull dog, and the Pug; 3. The Great Dane, out of which came the Danish Dog and the Boxer; 4. The Newfoundland; and 5. The Saint Bernard, out of which came the Leonberg dog.
However, Dieter Fleig disagreed with Strebel and offered the following list as composing of the foundation for modern fighting dogs: 1, The Tibetan Dog; 2. The Molossus; 3. The Bull Biter; 4. The Great Dane; 5. The Mastiff; 6. The Bull Dog; 5. The Bull and Terrier; and 6. The Chincha Bulldog.
The foundation breed of the fighting dog was, in its outward appearance, a large, low, heavy breed with a powerful build and strongly developed head, and tremendously threatening voice. Additionally, these foundation breeds were also bred for a powerful jaw that would enable them to defend and protect humans, to overpower and pull down large animals on a hunt, and to control large, unmanageable domestic animals. These dogs were also sometimes equipped with metal plates, chains, and collars with sharp spikes or hooked knives in order to be used in wars throughout history.
However, Dieter Fleig disagreed with Strebel and offered the following list as composing of the foundation for modern fighting dogs: 1, The Tibetan Dog; 2. The Molossus; 3. The Bull Biter; 4. The Great Dane; 5. The Mastiff; 6. The Bull Dog; 5. The Bull and Terrier; and 6. The Chincha Bulldog.
The foundation breed of the fighting dog was, in its outward appearance, a large, low, heavy breed with a powerful build and strongly developed head, and tremendously threatening voice. Additionally, these foundation breeds were also bred for a powerful jaw that would enable them to defend and protect humans, to overpower and pull down large animals on a hunt, and to control large, unmanageable domestic animals. These dogs were also sometimes equipped with metal plates, chains, and collars with sharp spikes or hooked knives in order to be used in wars throughout history.
When bullbaiting became popular in England due to the shortage of bears, bull baiters soon realized that large fighting dogs were built too heavy and too slow for this type of combat. When fighting a bull, dogs were trained to grab onto the bull's nose and pin the bull's head to the ground.
If the dog failed to do this, the bull would fling the dog out of the ring with its horns. The British therefore decided to selectively breed fighting dogs for shorter legs and a more powerful jaw. These efforts resulted in the Old English Bulldog.
However, when countries started outlawing bull and bear baiting, dog fighters started pitting dogs against other dogs. With the prevalence of such combat, dogfighters soon realized bulldogs were inadequate and began to breed bulldogs with terriers for more desired characteristics.
Terriers were most likely crossbred with bulldogs due to their "generally rugged body structure," speed, aggression, and "highly developed gameness."Yet, there is a debate over which type of terrier was bred with bulldogs in order to create the Bull and Terrier. For instance, Joseph L. Colby claimed that it was the old English White Terrier that the Bull and Terrier is descended from, while Rhonda D. Evans and Craig J. Forsyth contend that its ancestor is the Rat Terrier. Carl Semencic, on the other hand, held that a variety of terriers produced the Bull and Terrier.
If the dog failed to do this, the bull would fling the dog out of the ring with its horns. The British therefore decided to selectively breed fighting dogs for shorter legs and a more powerful jaw. These efforts resulted in the Old English Bulldog.
However, when countries started outlawing bull and bear baiting, dog fighters started pitting dogs against other dogs. With the prevalence of such combat, dogfighters soon realized bulldogs were inadequate and began to breed bulldogs with terriers for more desired characteristics.
Terriers were most likely crossbred with bulldogs due to their "generally rugged body structure," speed, aggression, and "highly developed gameness."Yet, there is a debate over which type of terrier was bred with bulldogs in order to create the Bull and Terrier. For instance, Joseph L. Colby claimed that it was the old English White Terrier that the Bull and Terrier is descended from, while Rhonda D. Evans and Craig J. Forsyth contend that its ancestor is the Rat Terrier. Carl Semencic, on the other hand, held that a variety of terriers produced the Bull and Terrier.
Eventually, out of cross breeding bulldogs and terriers, the English created the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. When the Staffordshire Bull Terrier came to America in 1817, Americans began to selectively breed for gameness and created the American Pit Bull Terrier (originally known as the Pit Bull Terrier), which is a unique breed due to its absence of threat displays when fighting and its docility towards humans.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers are all breeds that are commonly labeled as pit bulls. The fact that "pit bulls" were historically bred to fight bulls and bears has been used as justifications in some U.S. cities to implement Breed Specific Legislation.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers are all breeds that are commonly labeled as pit bulls. The fact that "pit bulls" were historically bred to fight bulls and bears has been used as justifications in some U.S. cities to implement Breed Specific Legislation.
Please, do not report this movie or do comments on the blog - this film is to spread awareness of this horrible "sport".
The film shows how young people boast about their dogs and breeding as well as online pedigree.
The film shows how young people boast about their dogs and breeding as well as online pedigree.
Bait animals
"Bait" animals are animals used to test a dog's fighting instinct; they are often mauled or killed in the process. Many of the training methods involve torturing and killing of other innocent animals. Often "bait" animals are stray animals, stolen pets, puppies, kittens, rabbits, small dogs and even stock (pit bulls acquired by the dogfighting ring which appear to be passive or less dominant).
Other sources for bait animals include wild or feral animals, animals obtained from a shelter, or animals obtained from "free to good home" ads. The snouts of bait animals are often wrapped with duct tape to prevent them from fighting back and they are used in training sessions to improve a dog's endurance, strength or fighting ability. A bait animal's teeth may also be broken to prevent them from fighting back.
Or their teeth are filed and their nails are cut until nothing is left. In Europe are stray animal at high risk, to be tricked with food and then being caught and exposed to these atrocities, many times it is younger people who do this.
If the bait animals are still alive after the training sessions, they are usually given to the dogs as a reward, and the dogs finish killing them. or they gets stabbed or beaten to death.
Other sources for bait animals include wild or feral animals, animals obtained from a shelter, or animals obtained from "free to good home" ads. The snouts of bait animals are often wrapped with duct tape to prevent them from fighting back and they are used in training sessions to improve a dog's endurance, strength or fighting ability. A bait animal's teeth may also be broken to prevent them from fighting back.
Or their teeth are filed and their nails are cut until nothing is left. In Europe are stray animal at high risk, to be tricked with food and then being caught and exposed to these atrocities, many times it is younger people who do this.
If the bait animals are still alive after the training sessions, they are usually given to the dogs as a reward, and the dogs finish killing them. or they gets stabbed or beaten to death.
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Street fighters
Often associated with gang activity, street fighters fight dogs over insults, turf invasions, or simple taunts like "my dog can kill your dog." These type of fights are often spontaneous; unorganized; conducted for money, drugs, or bragging rights; and occur on street corners, back alleys, and neighborhood playgrounds.
Urban street fighters generally have several dogs chained in back-yards, often behind privacy fences, or in basements or garages. After a street fight, the dogs are often discovered by police and animal control officers either dead or dying. Due to the spontaneity of a street fight, they are very difficult to respond to unless reported immediately.
Dog fights in Europe tends to be a "fun entertainment" during evenings and weekends, for ordinary young people with their own dogs.
Hobbyists and professionals often decry the techniques street fighters use to train their dogs. Such techniques include starving, drugging, and physically abusing the dog.
Hobbyists
Hobbyists fight dogs for supplemental income and entertainment purposes. They typically have one or more dogs participating in several organized fights and operate primarily within a specific geographic network. Hobbyists are also acquainted with one another and tend to return to predetermined fight venues repeatedly.
Often associated with gang activity, street fighters fight dogs over insults, turf invasions, or simple taunts like "my dog can kill your dog." These type of fights are often spontaneous; unorganized; conducted for money, drugs, or bragging rights; and occur on street corners, back alleys, and neighborhood playgrounds.
Urban street fighters generally have several dogs chained in back-yards, often behind privacy fences, or in basements or garages. After a street fight, the dogs are often discovered by police and animal control officers either dead or dying. Due to the spontaneity of a street fight, they are very difficult to respond to unless reported immediately.
Dog fights in Europe tends to be a "fun entertainment" during evenings and weekends, for ordinary young people with their own dogs.
Hobbyists and professionals often decry the techniques street fighters use to train their dogs. Such techniques include starving, drugging, and physically abusing the dog.
Hobbyists
Hobbyists fight dogs for supplemental income and entertainment purposes. They typically have one or more dogs participating in several organized fights and operate primarily within a specific geographic network. Hobbyists are also acquainted with one another and tend to return to predetermined fight venues repeatedly.
Professionals
Professional fighters breed generations of skilled "game dogs" and take a great pride in their dogs' lineage. These fighters make a tremendous amount of money charging stud fees to breed their champions, in addition to the fees and winnings they collect for fighting them. They also tend to own a large number of dogs—sometimes 50 or more.
Professionals also use trade journals, such as Your Friend and Mine, Game Dog Times, The American Warrior, and The Pit Bull Chronicle, to discuss recent fights and to advertise the sale of training equipment and puppies.
Some fighters operate on a national or even international level within highly secret networks. When a dog is not successful in a fight, a professional may dispose of it using a variety of techniques such as drowning, strangulation, hanging, gun shot, electrocution or some other method. Sometimes professionals and hobbyists dispose of dogs deemed aggressive to humans to street fighters.
Professional fighters breed generations of skilled "game dogs" and take a great pride in their dogs' lineage. These fighters make a tremendous amount of money charging stud fees to breed their champions, in addition to the fees and winnings they collect for fighting them. They also tend to own a large number of dogs—sometimes 50 or more.
Professionals also use trade journals, such as Your Friend and Mine, Game Dog Times, The American Warrior, and The Pit Bull Chronicle, to discuss recent fights and to advertise the sale of training equipment and puppies.
Some fighters operate on a national or even international level within highly secret networks. When a dog is not successful in a fight, a professional may dispose of it using a variety of techniques such as drowning, strangulation, hanging, gun shot, electrocution or some other method. Sometimes professionals and hobbyists dispose of dogs deemed aggressive to humans to street fighters.
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Training equipment used for training the dogs as well as surgical tools and supplies, used to stitch up the animals after fights are common in this cruel sport.
Gang and criminal activities
While dog fighting was previously seen as an isolated animal welfare issues—and therefore rarely enforced, the last decade has produced a growing body of legal and empirical evidence that has revealed a connection between dog-fighting and other crimes within a community, such as organized crime, racketeering, drug distribution, and/or gangs.
Within the gang community, fighting dogs compete with firearms as the weapon of choice; indeed, their versatile utility arguably surpasses that of a loaded firearm in the criminal underground. Drug dealers distribute their illicit merchandise, wagers are made, weapons are concealed, and the dogs mutilate each other in a bloody frenzy as crowds cheer on.
Violence often erupts among the usually armed gamblers when debts are to be collected and paid. There is also a concern for children who are routinely exposed to dogfighting and are forced to accept the inherent violence as normal. The routine exposure of the children to unfettered animal abuse and neglect is a major contributing factor in their later manifestation of social deviance.
While dog fighting was previously seen as an isolated animal welfare issues—and therefore rarely enforced, the last decade has produced a growing body of legal and empirical evidence that has revealed a connection between dog-fighting and other crimes within a community, such as organized crime, racketeering, drug distribution, and/or gangs.
Within the gang community, fighting dogs compete with firearms as the weapon of choice; indeed, their versatile utility arguably surpasses that of a loaded firearm in the criminal underground. Drug dealers distribute their illicit merchandise, wagers are made, weapons are concealed, and the dogs mutilate each other in a bloody frenzy as crowds cheer on.
Violence often erupts among the usually armed gamblers when debts are to be collected and paid. There is also a concern for children who are routinely exposed to dogfighting and are forced to accept the inherent violence as normal. The routine exposure of the children to unfettered animal abuse and neglect is a major contributing factor in their later manifestation of social deviance.
Dog fighting generally defined as pitting two game dogs against one another in a ring or a pit for the entertainment of the spectators or the gratification of the dogfighters, who are sometimes referred to as dogmen.
In rural areas, dog fights are often staged in barns or outdoor pits; in urban areas, fights may occur in garages, basements, warehouses, abandoned buildings, back alleys, neighborhood playgrounds, or in the streets.
Dog fights usually last until one dog is declared a winner, which occurs when one dog fails to scratch, one dog dies, or one dog jumps out of the pit. The loser, if not killed in the fight, is typically killed by the owner through a gun, beatings, or torture.
Animal welfare and rights
Animal advocates consider dog fighting to be one of the most serious forms of animal abuse, not only for the violence that the dogs endure during and after the fights, but also because of the suffering they often endure in training, and the suffering of other dogs and animals used as bait.
Organized dog fighting are conducted on a large scale in Europe by shady individuals, but the debate around this unimaginable atrocities are quiet.
In rural areas, dog fights are often staged in barns or outdoor pits; in urban areas, fights may occur in garages, basements, warehouses, abandoned buildings, back alleys, neighborhood playgrounds, or in the streets.
Dog fights usually last until one dog is declared a winner, which occurs when one dog fails to scratch, one dog dies, or one dog jumps out of the pit. The loser, if not killed in the fight, is typically killed by the owner through a gun, beatings, or torture.
Animal welfare and rights
Animal advocates consider dog fighting to be one of the most serious forms of animal abuse, not only for the violence that the dogs endure during and after the fights, but also because of the suffering they often endure in training, and the suffering of other dogs and animals used as bait.
Organized dog fighting are conducted on a large scale in Europe by shady individuals, but the debate around this unimaginable atrocities are quiet.
Today
Dog fighting is illegal in the EU Member States but fights are constantly being organized throughout Europe and the EU, in which dogs are - literally - forced to fight for their lives.
The organized dogfights operations is very extensive and widespread i Europe (EU), more than the general public and the police in Europe are aware of.
The dogs are born, live and die as a tool in a world of cruel violent people, money and prestige. This is one of the most serious cruelty to animals that exists in the world, and in Europe. Nevertheless, this last in silence without any direct attention by media or the society.
The dogs live many times in terrible conditions and lacking affection and love. They suffer all their lives and always die in pain - thousands of dogs have to suffer every day, all year round.
The organized dogfights operations is very extensive and widespread i Europe (EU), more than the general public and the police in Europe are aware of.
The dogs are born, live and die as a tool in a world of cruel violent people, money and prestige. This is one of the most serious cruelty to animals that exists in the world, and in Europe. Nevertheless, this last in silence without any direct attention by media or the society.
The dogs live many times in terrible conditions and lacking affection and love. They suffer all their lives and always die in pain - thousands of dogs have to suffer every day, all year round.
It is all about breeding, betting and gambling, which are advertised in a highly sophisticated and organized way via the internet. The most used breeds are dogs with already enhanced characteristics and by selective breeding, people are trying to increase the dogs' qualities and to improve the dogs' characteristics, like low stimulus threshold, aggression, tenacity and combativeness.
Dogs used in this cruel sport are usually Pitbull, Rottweiler, mixed breeds but also other purebreeds. The dogs are not born vicious or aggressive, but the unscrupulous individuals begins to train the dog when it's puppy and triggers the dog to want to fight and bite, which is easier for some breeds to embrace. All dogs in this industry that do not classify themselves in this cruel sport, are brutally killed.
Everything is done illegally, which means that those dogs are never insured or receive regular veterinary care This industry has its own vets, medicines and it is common for the owners themselves to perform surgery on injured dogs.
Many dogs who are not used in actual fight are used as training sacrifice (bait dog or target dog). The champion dogs can practice their tactics on the "bait" who usually has the mouth taped in order to only serve as a training body and is killed by being chewed to death without being able to defend itself. Many stray dogs and cats are used and owned companion animals are stolen, but also dogs who are exclusively bred by these insensitive people are used for this cruel practice.
Dogs used in this cruel sport are usually Pitbull, Rottweiler, mixed breeds but also other purebreeds. The dogs are not born vicious or aggressive, but the unscrupulous individuals begins to train the dog when it's puppy and triggers the dog to want to fight and bite, which is easier for some breeds to embrace. All dogs in this industry that do not classify themselves in this cruel sport, are brutally killed.
Everything is done illegally, which means that those dogs are never insured or receive regular veterinary care This industry has its own vets, medicines and it is common for the owners themselves to perform surgery on injured dogs.
Many dogs who are not used in actual fight are used as training sacrifice (bait dog or target dog). The champion dogs can practice their tactics on the "bait" who usually has the mouth taped in order to only serve as a training body and is killed by being chewed to death without being able to defend itself. Many stray dogs and cats are used and owned companion animals are stolen, but also dogs who are exclusively bred by these insensitive people are used for this cruel practice.
Street-fighting dogs treated for stab wounds -
Animal health workers are treating dogs for stab wounds, cigarettes burns and broken bones as reports of street fighting soar.
Two-thirds of phone calls about dogs fighting are linked to young people who wield them as weapons, the RSPCA said. The animal charity said the number of reports of dog fighting has increased tenfold from 2004 when there were 24 reports to 284 last year.
Of the reports received last year, 188 related to "macho" dogs such as bull terrier-type breeds and Rottweilers. David Grant, of the RSPCA's Harmsworth Animal Hospital, north London, said the capital is the nation's hotspot for dog fighting.
But he said colleagues face young people who use dogs to fight and intimidate in Merseyside, West Yorkshire, and the West Midlands.
Mr Grant said: "My staff are treating more dogs than ever for fight wounds and injuries sustained as a result of them being kept as status symbols by young people who think having a dog makes them look tough.
"I've had to treat dogs with stab wounds, broken bones and even cigarette burns to their heads. The torture some of these poor animals have suffered is simply horrific."
:: A BBC Three documentary titled My Weapon Is A Dog, which highlights RSPCA concerns, will be broadcast tonight at 9pm - Source: The Telegraph
'Fighting dog' found dumped tied to bars in Nechells
An animal likely to have been a fighting dog was dumped at a recreation ground after suffering deep cuts, animal charity the RSPCA said.
It said his face was "dripping with blood" and he had "numerous" wounds all over his body when he was discovered in Mount Street, Nechells, Birmingham.
He had probably led "a very bleak existence" before being found tied to metal bars on Monday, the RSPCA said.
The charity said it was keen to find the owner.
Animal welfare officer Ben Jones said: "I actually find it quite disgusting and infuriating that someone can be so callous as to use their dog for fighting and then just abandon him on his own in a strange park - knowing that he really needs to have emergency veterinary treatment."
A member of the public called the charity, which said the animal has to be identified by a dog legislation officer as it is thought he could be a pit bull breed - Source: BBC
It said his face was "dripping with blood" and he had "numerous" wounds all over his body when he was discovered in Mount Street, Nechells, Birmingham.
He had probably led "a very bleak existence" before being found tied to metal bars on Monday, the RSPCA said.
The charity said it was keen to find the owner.
Animal welfare officer Ben Jones said: "I actually find it quite disgusting and infuriating that someone can be so callous as to use their dog for fighting and then just abandon him on his own in a strange park - knowing that he really needs to have emergency veterinary treatment."
A member of the public called the charity, which said the animal has to be identified by a dog legislation officer as it is thought he could be a pit bull breed - Source: BBC
Gypsy - Touching tale about an abused APBT - Her pictures have been shown many times on the Internet and here's the movie.
Status by region
Dog fighting has been popular in many countries throughout history and continues to be practiced both legally and illegally around the world. In the 20th and 21st centuries, dog fighting has increasingly become an unlawful activity in most of the world.
Afghanistan
Previously banned by the Taliban, dog fighting has made a resurgence throughout Afghanistan as a winter weekend pastime.
In Kabul, the fights are public and policed for safety to the spectators. Dogs are not fought to the death, but to submission. Top dogs are worth as much as a new car.
In Kabul, the fights are public and policed for safety to the spectators. Dogs are not fought to the death, but to submission. Top dogs are worth as much as a new car.
Australia
Dog fighting is illegal in Australia. It is also illegal to possess any fighting equipment designed for dog fighting. Despite this, there are many dog fighting rings in Australia which are often associated with gambling activities and other illegal practices such as drug dealing and firearms.
The RSPCA is concerned that dog fighting involves the suffering or even the death of dogs for the purpose of entertainment.
The illegal nature of dogfighting in Australia means that injured dogs rarely get veterinary treatment placing the dog' s health and welfare at even greater risk. "Restricted Breed Dogs" cannot be imported into Australia.
These include the Dogo Argentino, the Japanese Tosa, the Fila Brasileiro, the Perro de Presa Canario and the American Pit Bull Terrier. Of these, the Pit Bull Terrier and the Perro de Presa Canario are the only breeds currently known to exist in Australia and there are strict regulations on keeping these breeds, including a prohibition on transferring ownership.
The RSPCA is concerned that dog fighting involves the suffering or even the death of dogs for the purpose of entertainment.
The illegal nature of dogfighting in Australia means that injured dogs rarely get veterinary treatment placing the dog' s health and welfare at even greater risk. "Restricted Breed Dogs" cannot be imported into Australia.
These include the Dogo Argentino, the Japanese Tosa, the Fila Brasileiro, the Perro de Presa Canario and the American Pit Bull Terrier. Of these, the Pit Bull Terrier and the Perro de Presa Canario are the only breeds currently known to exist in Australia and there are strict regulations on keeping these breeds, including a prohibition on transferring ownership.
China
China has a long tradition of dogfighting, particularly among the Uyghur and Hui ethnic groups, and that fights are not technically illegal as an event itself.
China has begun cracking down on organized dogfighting events. However, the main priority of the officials is to curb gambling, rather than enforce animal protection, because it is illegal in mainland China.
Source: New Year's Day dog fighting event in Shanxi, China
China has begun cracking down on organized dogfighting events. However, the main priority of the officials is to curb gambling, rather than enforce animal protection, because it is illegal in mainland China.
Source: New Year's Day dog fighting event in Shanxi, China
Europe and the EU
Dog fighting is illegal in the EU and most Europen countries. The Cruelty to Animals Act 1835 of England and Wales was the first legislation in the world that made dogfighting illegal.
Despite periodic dog-fight prosecutions, illegal canine pit battles continued after the Cruelty to Animals Act 1835 of England and Wales. Sporting journals of the 18th and 19th centuries depict the Black Country and London as the primary English dog fight centres of the period. Dog fights permeates throughout Europe, from Scandinavia to Turkey.
Despite periodic dog-fight prosecutions, illegal canine pit battles continued after the Cruelty to Animals Act 1835 of England and Wales. Sporting journals of the 18th and 19th centuries depict the Black Country and London as the primary English dog fight centres of the period. Dog fights permeates throughout Europe, from Scandinavia to Turkey.
India
Dog fighting is not common barring some rural areas, and is illegal as defined by the Indian law. It is also illegal to possess dogfighting materials such as videos, or to attend an event.
Japan
According to historical documents, Hōjō Takatoki, the 14th shikken (shogun's regent) of the Kamakura shogunate was known to be obsessed with dog fighting, to the point where he allowed his samurai to pay taxes with dogs. During this period dog fighting was known as inuawase .
Dog fighting was considered a way for the Samurai to retain their aggressive edge during peaceful times. Several daimyō, such as Chosokabe Motochika and Yamauchi Yodo, both from Tosa Province (present-day Kōchi Prefecture), were known to encourage dog fighting. Dog fighting was also popular in Akita Prefecture, which is the origin of the Akita breed.
Dog fighting evolved in Kōchi to a form that is called tōken. Under modern rules, dogs fight in a fenced ring until one of the dogs barks, yelps, or loses the will to fight. Owners are allowed to throw in the towel, and matches are stopped if a doctor judges it is too dangerous. Draws usually occur when both dogs will not fight or both dogs fight until the time limit. There are various other rules, including one that specifies that a dog will lose if it attempts to copulate. Champion dogs are called yokozuna, as in sumo. Dog fighting is not banned at a nationwide level, but the prefectures of Tokyo, Kanagawa, Fukui, Ishikawa, Toyama and Hokkaidō all ban the practice. Currently, most fighting dogs in Japan are of the Tosa breed which is native to Kōchi.
Dog fighting was considered a way for the Samurai to retain their aggressive edge during peaceful times. Several daimyō, such as Chosokabe Motochika and Yamauchi Yodo, both from Tosa Province (present-day Kōchi Prefecture), were known to encourage dog fighting. Dog fighting was also popular in Akita Prefecture, which is the origin of the Akita breed.
Dog fighting evolved in Kōchi to a form that is called tōken. Under modern rules, dogs fight in a fenced ring until one of the dogs barks, yelps, or loses the will to fight. Owners are allowed to throw in the towel, and matches are stopped if a doctor judges it is too dangerous. Draws usually occur when both dogs will not fight or both dogs fight until the time limit. There are various other rules, including one that specifies that a dog will lose if it attempts to copulate. Champion dogs are called yokozuna, as in sumo. Dog fighting is not banned at a nationwide level, but the prefectures of Tokyo, Kanagawa, Fukui, Ishikawa, Toyama and Hokkaidō all ban the practice. Currently, most fighting dogs in Japan are of the Tosa breed which is native to Kōchi.
North America
Dog fighting is illegal in the United States. It has been illegal in Canada since 1892; however, the current law requires police to catch individuals during the unlawful act, which is often difficult.
According to a study by the College of Law of Michigan State University published in 2005, in the United States, dog fighting was once completely legal and was sanctioned and promoted during the colonial period (17th century through 1776) and continuing through the Victorian era in the late 19th century. It has become increasingly outlawed, a trend which has continued into the 21st century.
As of 2008, dog fighting is a felony in all states. It is against the law even to attend a dog fighting event, regardless of direct participation.
CNN estimated that in the United States about 40,000 individuals are involved as professionals in the sport of dog fighting as a commercial activity. Top fights are said to have potential purses of $100,000 (USD). CNN also stated that more than 100,000 people are engaged in dog fighting on a non-professional basis. Despite legality issues, dogs are still commonly used for fighting purposes all across the continent.
According to a study by the College of Law of Michigan State University published in 2005, in the United States, dog fighting was once completely legal and was sanctioned and promoted during the colonial period (17th century through 1776) and continuing through the Victorian era in the late 19th century. It has become increasingly outlawed, a trend which has continued into the 21st century.
As of 2008, dog fighting is a felony in all states. It is against the law even to attend a dog fighting event, regardless of direct participation.
CNN estimated that in the United States about 40,000 individuals are involved as professionals in the sport of dog fighting as a commercial activity. Top fights are said to have potential purses of $100,000 (USD). CNN also stated that more than 100,000 people are engaged in dog fighting on a non-professional basis. Despite legality issues, dogs are still commonly used for fighting purposes all across the continent.
Pakistan
Dog fighting and other forms of animal fighting are extremely popular in all parts of rural Pakistan, and is deeply rooted in the rural culture, where some 70 percent of the population resides. It has been a way for tribes, clans and the rural people to socialize while being entertained.
Even though it has recently been banned by law, it is still being practiced in rural Pakistan, especially in provinces such as Punjab, Azad Kashmir, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa. There can apparently be as much as millions of rupees at stake for the owners of winning dogs, so different breeds have carefully been bred and selected specifically for the purpose, such as the Bully Kutta and Gull Dong.
Even though it has recently been banned by law, it is still being practiced in rural Pakistan, especially in provinces such as Punjab, Azad Kashmir, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa. There can apparently be as much as millions of rupees at stake for the owners of winning dogs, so different breeds have carefully been bred and selected specifically for the purpose, such as the Bully Kutta and Gull Dong.
Russia
Although animal cruelty laws exist in Russia, dog fighting is widely practiced. Laws prohibiting dogfights have been passed in certain places, and in others dogfights are legally held generally using Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Georgian shepherd, Central Asian Shepherd Dog.
Temperament tests, which are a common and relatively mild form of dog fighting used for breeding purposes, are fairly commonplace. Dog fighting is prohibited in Moscow by order of the city's mayor.
Temperament tests, which are a common and relatively mild form of dog fighting used for breeding purposes, are fairly commonplace. Dog fighting is prohibited in Moscow by order of the city's mayor.
South Africa
Dog fighting has been documented in South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape region of Stellenbosch. The Stellenbosch Animal Welfare Society (AWS) frequently responds to complaints of night-time dog fighting in the town of Cloetesville in which hundreds of dogs fight.
Young children may be used to transport fighting dogs to avoid arrest of the owners.
Young children may be used to transport fighting dogs to avoid arrest of the owners.
South America
Dog fighting is illegal in most of South America. The American Pit Bull Terrier is by far the most common breed involved in the bloodsport.
The Fila Brasileiro and Dogo Argentino are also used as fighting dogs. The Dogo Cubano and Dogo Cordoba were used for fighting a century ago, but have become extinct.
Source
The Fila Brasileiro and Dogo Argentino are also used as fighting dogs. The Dogo Cubano and Dogo Cordoba were used for fighting a century ago, but have become extinct.
Source
Significant cases
On August 27, 2007 professional American football player Michael Vick pleaded guilty to felony charges of running a dogfighting ring. Vick joined three others who had pleaded guilty earlier to federal offense charges for running a competitive dogfighting ring called "Bad Newz Kennels" over a period of 6 years.
The case drew widespread publicity in the United States owing to Vick's fame, his image as a role model, and certain gruesome details of the operation, including how underperforming dogs were executed via means such as electrocution and hanging.
The related unlawful gambling he funded was especially objectionable to his professional football league's Player Code of Conduct. The four co-defendants face up to five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 plus restitution.
The case drew widespread publicity in the United States owing to Vick's fame, his image as a role model, and certain gruesome details of the operation, including how underperforming dogs were executed via means such as electrocution and hanging.
The related unlawful gambling he funded was especially objectionable to his professional football league's Player Code of Conduct. The four co-defendants face up to five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 plus restitution.
It is also likely that Vick will forfeit ownership of the $700,000 15 acre estate in Surry County, Virginia which was developed for the enterprise. A Virginia state grand jury met to consider additional state charges on Vick on September 25, 2007.
In the wake of the Michael Vick case the Animal Legal Defense Fund drafted a recommended amendment to state laws that would enable prosecutors to charge dogfighters under the respective state’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (commonly referred to as "RICO") statute.
Applied to animal fighting, RICO, which was originally designed to be a weapon against a wide variety of organized criminal efforts, including drug dealing and gambling, would give prosecutors increased muscle in seeking justice for the animals abused and—as in the highly-publicized Michael Vick dogfighting case—executed by their owners.
Thirty-two states currently have RICO statutes to which this amendment could be applied. The amendment was enacted in Virginia in July 2008, making it the third state, along with Oregon and Utah, whose law lists dogfighting as a RICO predicate offense.
In the wake of the Michael Vick case the Animal Legal Defense Fund drafted a recommended amendment to state laws that would enable prosecutors to charge dogfighters under the respective state’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (commonly referred to as "RICO") statute.
Applied to animal fighting, RICO, which was originally designed to be a weapon against a wide variety of organized criminal efforts, including drug dealing and gambling, would give prosecutors increased muscle in seeking justice for the animals abused and—as in the highly-publicized Michael Vick dogfighting case—executed by their owners.
Thirty-two states currently have RICO statutes to which this amendment could be applied. The amendment was enacted in Virginia in July 2008, making it the third state, along with Oregon and Utah, whose law lists dogfighting as a RICO predicate offense.
Why we can‘t forget Michael Vick’s dog-fighting past - Vick
is free to do as he pleases both on the football field and off. But
one thing he can’t do is absolve himself of his direct participation in
horrific and fatal animal torture and abuse. And whether he takes our
home team to the Super Bowl or spends the season riding the pine, we’re
not obligated to forgive, and it’s essential we don’t forget - Please unlike Michael Vick's facebook page.
All dogs have the same feelings - no matter what label man has chosen to use for a purpose.