Why Should You Care?

Dog fighting has become a serious issue within our community. Why should you know how to recognize and report suspected dog fighting activities? Because dog fighting is a felony in Ohio and is linked to many other illegal and criminal activities. Law enforcement and animal welfare investigators report:

• dog fighters are often involved in illegal gambling, the sale and possession of drugs, as well as illegal weapons.
• dog fighters and spectators have a history of violent and criminal behavior toward people.
• dog fighting is another entertainment activity for gangs.
• dogs trained for fighting have been known to viciously attack innocent people for no apparent reason.
• it is not uncommon for dog fighters or spectators to involve their children in dog fighting.

Research shows young children who view this type of violence have a greater acceptance of aggressive attitudes and behavior. These children are taught to believe that it's okay to inflict the cruelties they observe and that dog fighting is an acceptable practice.

Other Signs of Dog Fighting

Just because your neighbor owns a pit bull does not mean that he or she is a dog fighter.

Signs of serious dog fighting include:

• ownership of several adult dogs and/or puppies that are confined by thick chains with or without weights on their collars.
• tires or other items suspended from trees to provide jaw strengthening activities.
• hand walking, jogging or using a treadmill.
• a "cat mill" which confines a cat, rabbit or other small animal and encourages the dog to ` chase it may be present. As a reward for its hard, work, the dog will be permitted to capture and kill the confined animal.
• people of all ages coming and going in groups from a residence or other site, some with dogs.

What Should You Look For?

Men, women and children attend dog fights throughout the year. Dog fighting is not a "seasonal sport."
Virtually any area within the community can hold a dog fight:

• an abandoned house
• a vacant garage
• an isolated warehouse
• a commercial or residential basement
• a secluded park
• a farmhouse or barn

Observing adolescents and/or adults with dogs, going to or coming from a site, should peak your curiosity.
The party-like atmosphere surrounding a dog fight is noticeable. Spectators cheer for their chosen dog as the bets stack up. Growling and barking, especially if other breeds of dogs are being used, is sometimes recognizable.

What Breed of Dogs are Involved in Dog Fighting?

Dogs which have the appearance and characteristics of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier or any other breed commonly known as pit bull, may be used in dog fighting activities. Other large breeds of dogs may also be used for dog fighting.
Dogs used in fighting often times have observable characteristics:

• short ear crops
• recent or long-standing wounds and abscesses
• scars on the head, throat, legs, and ears
• wide leather or web collars with heavy rings
• puncture wounds and lacerations
• bleeding dogs and/or blood stains in a confined area
• severe injuries that can result in death from loss of blood and internal trauma.

What Can You Do?

Remember that violence, weapons, and illegal activities go hand-in-hand with dog fighting. Report any suspected dog fighting activities, to the appropriate local agency.
Your report will be kept confidential to the maximum extent possible.
It is up to you and your neighbors to spread the word that dog fighting is not acceptable in your neighborhood.

Who Can You Turn to for Help?

In Lucas County, if you or someone you know suspects dog fighting, do not hesitate to contact one of the following agencies:

• The Toledo Humane Society Animal Cruelty Investigation Division (419) 891-9777
• Crime Stoppers (419) 255-1111
• Lucas County Dog Warden Department (419) 255-6119
• Toledo Police 9-1-1

Remember, reporting dog fighting will reduce violence and illegal activities in your neighborhood!