Dog fighting is a brutal blood sport that is fueled by the
participant's greed for monetary gain or street status, and a
basic attraction to violent acts.
This barbaric activity is often associated with other criminal
activity - such as narcotics violations, illegal gambling and
the unlawful possession of weapons.
 Most
disturbing is the involvement of juveniles who seek to emulate
the behavior of older friends or family members. Exposing young
children to intentional acts of violence against animals causes
serious negative impact on their mental development and is
considered child abuse.
For the sake of the children of our community and welfare of all
residents, do not turn a blind eye
and allow this type of abusive behavior to occur in your
neighborhood!!!
The pit bull problem that is often spoken about these days is
not a dog problem at all; it is a people problem. Most pit bull
owners are sickened at the thought of their beloved breed being
treated in such a violent, abusive manner. You can be part of
the solution to this hidden community problem by watching for
the “red flags” of illegal activity.
The following signs may indicate that dogs
are being kept or used for the purpose of fighting:
- Multiple dogs secured on heavy chains.
- Multiple dogs housed in a manner that prevents them from
coming into contact with one another.
- A "revolving door" of dogs.
- Weights attached to the dogs' collars.
- Scarring on the dogs' bodies.
- Training equipment such as treadmills, hanging ropes or
animal hides.
- Medications not normally found in the possession of
non-medical personnel.
- The use of the word "game" when referring to the dogs.
All activity associated with the intentional fighting or baiting
of animals is a third degree felony, punishable by a maximum of
five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Any person found to be
involved in animal fighting or baiting, including any person
that knowingly harbors fighting animals on their property, will
be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
To report suspicions of animal
fighting activity, contact
the Police Department at 561.742.6100
or Animal Control at 561.742.6210.
Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a
reward through the Humane Society of the United States.
|
