How You Can Help
There are many things that the general public can do to help put an end to dog fighting and to help the innocent victims of this horrific crime. First of all, educate yourself about dog fighting.
One must realize that the dogs do not choose to fight, it is the humans that are fighting them. Dog fighting is a crime punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both. Remember the case of Michael Vick? It is a federal offense to transport a dog across state lines for the purposes of dog fighting. Report dog fighting or suspected dog fighting to your local authorities. You can remain annonymous. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) offers a reward of up to $5000 for information leading to the arrest of suspected dog fighters. The number to call is 877-TIP-HSUS.
Urge your elected officials to enact legislation with teeth aimed at seriously penalizing dog fighters with mandatory prison terms. Take a stance against Breed Specific Legislation against Pit Bulls which further seeks to punish innocent animals instead of holding their owners accountable. Spay and neuter your pets to reduce the number of innocent animals available to dog fighters at shelters and through newspaper adds. Provide foster care, transport, and "forever" homes for rescued fighting dogs and other homeless dogs, then work hard to ensure their rehabilitation and training as necessary.
Rescue groups are always in need of funds to help pay for needed vet care, not only for routine things such as shots, spay and neuter, and microchipping, but often for expensive care and surgeries for dogs who have been the victims of dog fighting. Bite wounds, torn ears, broken limbs, and sometimes even bullet wounds are common injuries in dogs used for fighting. Make sure that you are donating to a reputable rescue group, most have web sites and most are 501c3 not-for-profit organizations so donations are tax deductible.
Lastly, remember one thing. Pit Bulls are just dogs. Four legs, two eyes, one heart. Aggressiveness towards humans, severe shyness, and fearfulness are not characteristic of Pit Bulls and are undesirable in any dog.
Animal Farm Foundation