Dog fighting is a terrible blood hungry sport in which dogs are forced to fight one another for entertainment and profitable purposes. It’s one of the most horrific forms of animal cruelty, because dogs are typically raised in isolation, so they spend most of their lives in short heavy chains. These four-legged victims of abuse are forced to take steroids and their ears are cut off in cruel ways to avoid opponents from grabbing them during a fight.

The most common breed being used in these unthinkably cruel activities are Pit Bulls. These dogs have to endure pain and suffering, while the blood-thirsty spectators and abusers cheer for every fresh wound, broken bone and punctured lung. The brutalities continue for hours and some of the dogs eventually die in their battle against humanity.

 

 

Is there any justice for the brutality?

To date, proper punishment for these horrific acts was extremely unsatisfactory with perpetrators often merely walking away with nothing but a fine. Last week however saw a big win for the NSPCA and SAPS. Two culprits accused of involvement in the organising of dog flights got handed a sentence of direct imprisonment without suspension or the option of a fine. These two, together with 7 other suspects tried to evade the NSPCA inspectors and SAPD after arranging a vicious dog flight on 22 June 2018.

Honourable Magistrate P. Lourens who handed down the sentence said that, “It is necessary that this evil be addressed- because this, is evil” and that “we have reached a level of civilisation and constitutional values where a clear message has to be sent out to the people who want to commit these heinous and barbaric acts, that they will be punished and not just acknowledged”.

We could not be happier and our joy is echoed by the President of the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA), Jeanette Erasmus who said, “This is the best news”.

The court case against the remaining seven accused continues on the 13th of November.

 

 

Can abused Pit Bulls be rehabilitated?

Sure, with the right love and care a Pit Bull can be saved from their trauma and neglected past.

Meet Ruth, a Pit Bull saved from a dog fight.

Ruth suffered from heavy injuries to her face and neck. Her one ear was also torn apart. According to the gentleman who saved her, Ruth was like a baby that needed to be handled with love, care and lots of patience. That’s exactly what he did!

Here’s what the poor pooch looked before her recovery:

 

Check out the video here: Ruth before recovery.

 

Here’s what she looks like now:

 

Check out the video here: Ruth after recovery

After Ruth’s 28-day rehabilitation, she found a loving home. She’s now the queen of the house. Her new family gives her the life she’s always deserved. Her day is filled with face-licks, snuggles and treats.

Aww…we love happy endings!

 

What can you do to help our precious Pit Bulls?

It’s not an easy fight! We don’t always have the resources or knowledge to combat animal cruelty. We can however educate ourselves and report dog fighting, if we come across such brutalities.

 

Look out for the following signs:

  • Pit Bulls on chains in small spaces.
  • Residents with multiple unsterilized Pit bulls that look aggressive.
  • Pit Bulls with scars, especially on their faces and ears.
  • Purpose built fighting pits or square makeshift fighting areas with blood stains on the floors.
  • Regular change in dogs at specific properties. As dogs are killed, new one’s are purchased.

 

If you witness or hear of dog fighting, please contact the NSPCA at 011 907 3590 or pop them a mail at specialinvestigations@nspca.co.za. Don’t worry, your identity will remain YOURS! Reporting is 100% anonymous.