Dogfighting Takes
Place In Every State
Nationwide
Dogfighting can be found in every state in the US today.
Many people are not aware that dogfighting goes on everyday right in their "own
back yards". Dog owners go to extensive lengths to avoid law enforcement
officials. Fighting rings are moved around daily to new locations and the
dogfights continue without interruptions. Drug deals, illegal firearms, and
money are often associated with dogfighting also. Gambling profits are so large
for participants ranging from $10,000 - $100,000 for a single bet, that minor
penalties associated with
misdemeanor charges are not enough to stop this cruelty. They merely absorb
these fines as a part of doing business. It's nothing more than a slap on the
hand.
Dogfighting, a violent and cruel form of entertainment, can draw crowds of
over a hundred people cheering the dogs on. Two dogs are put in a small area
called a "fighting pit" built out of plywood.The fight can last up to two hours,
ending when one of the dogs is unable to finish, or is killed by the other.
Surviving dogs often suffer for days follwing the fight from shock, severe
injuries, blood loss, and infection.
Fighting dogs have been bred for many generations to be dangerously
aggressive and are often trained with "bait animals" such as cats, rabbits,
smaller dogs and puppies. Most bait animals are stolen or obtained through "free
to good homes" advertisements.
Concerned by the increasing number of youths involved in dogfighting
activities, former animal control officer Sue Sternberg decided to do something
about it. In 2002, Sternberg started a program called "Lug-Nuts" that encourages
inner-city teens to enter their dogs in weight pulling contests instead of
fights.
"Weight pulling is a very macho sport, and it's
incredibly humane" said Sternberg, who now runs a boarding, training and
adoption kennel called Rondout Valley Animals for Adoption in northern New York
State. Pets are encouraged to move forward with words of encouragement and tasty
treats.
Contests are held monthly in Harlem's Marcus Garvey
Park, which normally draws about 15 entries and large crowds of onlookers.
Winners receive cash prizes and pet supplies. The program also encourages owners
to spay and neuter their animals and offers to pay for the surgical
procedures.
New idea's such as this one can help steer our teenagers
away from dogfighting and other crimes before it's too late. Absolutely
Brilliant Sue Sternberg !!
--Sally Hayward, Vice
President
