Alabama Dogfight Raid Spanned Over Two Towns
02 June 2009
by Anai Rhoads
AnaiRhoads.org -- Alabama's 5th Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force raided a suspected dogfighting operation that was said to span over two towns in Randolph County, Ala. Monday.
In collaboration with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), authorities were able to seize and rescue 45 dogs.
Illicit drugs and other paraphernalia were confiscated that were consistent with dogfighting, along with the gruesome discovery of skeletal remains of dogs that "lost". The live dogs were attached to heavy chains and had injuries also consistent with dogfighting. Their wounds appeared to have been left untreated for quite some time and some dogs were found to have severe infections.
Currently, the ASPCA is reviewing the evidence collected to prove the case in court. ASPCA forensic veterinarian, Dr. Melinda Merck, is documenting the injuries inflicted both on the live dogs and the skeletal remains that were discovered in towns of Roanoke and Wedowee.
"These dogs definitely suffered abuse and inhumane treatment at the hands of dogfighters," said Dr. Merck, senior director of Veterinary Forensics for the ASPCA. "So far, we've seen that one is unable to walk, another that is limping, and many that are injured, some severely. Our hope is that the forensic evidence collected will help us seek justice for all of these animals."
According to HSUS, American pit bull terriers are typically bred and trained for dogfighting primarily due to their relentless attempts to overcome their opponents. The breed naturally have powerful jaws that are able to inflict deep puncture wounds and break bones easily.
It is important to note that pit bulls are gentle animals, and much like any breed, can be raised and trained to fight. Many families trust this breed with their children. Dogfighting has perverted the breed, wrongfully giving the pit bull an unnatural label.
Dogfighting events are typically set up through word of mouth in order to throw off authorities, and can be randomly found in garages, basements or vacant buildings. The events invite all ages, even small children, to witness the dogs fighting until their submission or death.
It is not uncommon to see other animals thrown in as bait for the dogs. These include rabbits, cats and even other smaller breeds of dogs. Many of the animals used for bait are either stolen family pets or collected from people who offer their pet free to good homes. Many are acquired through puppy mills and some even bred in the person's home or yard. Females are burdened with constant breeding and then thrown into the ring to fight when they no longer can provide litters.
These dogfighting events can yield large profits via illegal gambling. Money, drugs, weapons and even vehicles are put down during the bets. The dogfights range from 60 seconds up to 3 minutes or more, depending on the outcome.
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