Overview
HSI works to ensure there’s no safe haven for dogfighters worldwide by facilitating legislation to criminalize and sufficiently penalize dogfighting. We also work to strengthen existing law enforcement by providing free training on investigating and prosecuting illegal animal cruelty and fighting.
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1-2 hours
Average length of dogfights
55
Countries where dogfighting is banned to some extent
50
States in the U.S. where dogfighting is a felony
The issue
HSI catalyzes legislative reform and assists law enforcement in countries where dogfighting is prevalent by providing investigative expertise and training on how to penetrate the secret world of dogfighting and bring dogfighters to justice. We also support and train local animal groups in building successful government partnerships to care for and rehabilitate animals rescued in raids.
Facts about dogfighting:
- Dogfighting is abusive—fighting dogs are repeatedly subjected to severe injury and sometimes a drawn-out death.
- Several countries have no specific dogfighting prohibition and lack basic animal cruelty laws; many countries have weak, partial or unenforced laws.
- While dogfighting has decreased in the U.S. thanks to stronger penalties and enforcement, many dogfighters have found refuge in countries that lack laws or enforcement.
- There has been an increase in dogfighting activities and breeding facilities in many countries, notably Mexico, India and parts of Eastern Europe.
- Dogs are being imported from the U.S. for dogfighting operations worldwide.
- Children are sometimes present at dogfights, which promote insensitivity to animal suffering, enthusiasm for violence and disrespect for the law.
- Dogfighting is not only heinously cruel, it’s also associated with other violent behaviors and criminal activities.
Our work in action
