“Man’s best friend” may fight to the death in dogfights, often with tens of thousands of dollars at stake. Dogfighters sometimes kill the losing dogs, and even winning dogs may die from their wounds. Police often discover drugs, guns, and even murder in connection with dogfights.
Organized, large-scale dogfighting operations have declined in recent years, thanks in part to The HSUS' work against dogfighting.
Street dogfighting, however, is on the rise in urban areas. Neighborhood pit bull owners seeking status or bragging rights stage impromptu fights in back alleys or basements. We are making inroads into street dogfighting, too.
All fighting dogs suffer, whether in the pit or out. Although they are pack animals, an instinct to fight other dogs is bred into these dogs so deeply that they mainly live isolated on chains or locked in cages.
Together we can save dogs from this abuse.
Who Needs An App for That?
An outrageous mobile app called "Dog Wars" gives detailed instructions concerning the selection of dogs, food, a feeding schedule, and items to properly condition dogs for fighting. What were they thinking?
Learn MoreNews & Events
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April 25, 2012
Virginia Law Enforcement Officers Receive Training to Combat Animal Fighting
Humane Society University, an affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States, in collaboration with the Danville Area Humane Society, held a course for law enforcement officers in animal cruelty and fighting investigations.
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April 20, 2012
The Humane Society of the United States Commends Court of Appeals Decision Upholding Federal Animal Fighting Ban
The Humane Society of the United States hails a decision today by the Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit upholding critically important animal fighting provisions of the federal Animal Welfare Act.
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April 18, 2012
Animal Advocates Lobby New York Lawmakers on Animal Protection Legislation
During the 2012 New York State Humane Lobby Day, more than 150 citizens from across New York met with lawmakers at the Capitol and urged them to pass legislation to protect animals.
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March 30, 2012
Michael Vick and The HSUS's work to end dogfighting
Read answers to frequently asked questions about Michael Vick's involvement with The HSUS's work to prevent dogfighting.
Our Victories
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March 29, 2012
Discount Pet Supply Converts to Adoptions-Only Model; Takes The HSUS’ ‘Puppy Friendly’ Pledge
Discount Pet Supply, located in Salem, N.H., has signed The Humane Society of the United States' Puppy Friendly Pet Stores pledge, and has converted to adopting out homeless puppies instead of selling commercially raised dogs.
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February 17, 2012
Oklahoma Court Rejects Constitutional Challenge to the State’s New Puppy Mill Law
The Humane Society of the United States applauds a decision by District Judge Jonathan Sullivan upholding Oklahoma’s commercial dog breeding statute and rejecting breeders’ claims that the statute and accompanying rules are unconstitutional. The law, enacted in 2010, creates a licensing and inspection process, as well as minimum standards of care, for commercial pet breeders in Oklahoma.
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February 17, 2012
The Humane Society of the United States Applauds Brick Township, N.J. for Taking Action Against Pet Store’s Alleged Cruelty
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February 16, 2012
Ohio Man Convicted of Felony Dogfighting Activities
