Animal fighting continues to be a prevalent industry across the country. We have made significant progress and our work has these criminals on the defensive, but there are still many ways you can help.
What you can do
- We have a standing reward ($5,000) for information leading to a conviction of illegal dogfighting or other animal fighting; spread the word about it any way you can.
- Educate the masses—or at least your circle of friends—by sharing videos (like this one) on social media. There is no better way to get people motivated to do something than to let them see the problem.
- If you live in a state where animal fighting penalties are deficient, write to your state legislators and urge them to upgrade the law. Wherever you live, urge your local, state and Congressional representatives to support better funding for enforcement of animal fighting laws.
- Sign up to receive our email alerts to get the latest news about our efforts to combat animal cruelty.
- Write letters to the editor about the cruelty and dangers of animal fighting.
- Introduce yourself to your local law enforcement agencies and bring animal fighting issues to their attention. Call or visit your local law enforcement offices and bring them animal fighting reward posters. Even better, present law enforcement with statements from local animal control or shelter workers regarding the signs they see of animal fighting in the community.
- Let law enforcement agencies in your community know about the HSUS's day-long training courses for law enforcement on animal fighting with experts who discuss the signs of animal fighting and how to eradicate it. Once they are serious about cracking down on animal fighting, word will quickly spread that your town is no safe haven for animal fighters.
- If you suspect animal fighting in your own neighborhood, alert local law enforcement. Urge your local officials to contact the HSUS for practical tools, advice and assistance.
How to spot signs of animal fighting in your community
Dogfighting
- An inordinate number of pit bull-type dogs being kept in one location, especially multiple dogs who are chained and seem unsocialized.
- Dogs with scars on their faces, front legs and hind-quarters.
- Dogfighting training equipment such as treadmills used to build dogs' endurance, "break sticks" used to pry apart the jaws of dogs locked in battle, tires or "springpoles" (usually a large spring with rope attached to either end) hanging from tree limbs or unusual foot traffic coming and going from a location at odd hours.
Cockfighting
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An inordinate number of roosters (hundreds or sometimes thousands) kept in one location, especially multiple roosters who are tied to barrels, tee-pee style huts, or stakes.
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Properties with a much higher ratio of roosters to hens (legitimate poultry farmers have more hens than roosters).
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Roosters with their waddles, combs or natural spurs altered or removed.
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Cockfighting equipment such as gaffs or knifes, muffs (small “boxing” gloves).
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Signage suddenly advertising a “poultry show” and an unusual number of vehicles entering a property, many carrying roosters.