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New York City Tackles Illegal Dogfighting

August 30, 2007

©The HSUS/Huemer

A proposed New York City ordinance could make the city safer for both pit bulls and people.

New York City is poised to become a leader in the battle against dogfighting, with a proposed ordinance to significantly increase the civil penalties for owning or harboring dogs used for fighting. City Councilman Peter Vallone's proposed legislation will increase the current misdemeanor penalties (a maximum fine of $5,000) to $25,000 per dog.

Vallone's bill addresses the increasing problem of illegal dogfighting and the attendant abuses against pit bulls in New York City. As illegal dogfighting activity has spread from the rural South to infect urban areas, animal control officers have seen an alarming rise in the number of mortally injured and abused pit bulls on city streets.

"These dogs are forced to fight viciously in the pit, but they need us to help them fight their tormentors," Vallone said. "We must make sure the penalties are commensurate with the heinous nature of this crime."

Pit bulls raised for fighting can be abused mercilessly. Although all dogs are inherently social creatures, fighting dogs are typically isolated at the end of heavy chains or in basements, neglected and violently abused to maximize their aggression in the fighting ring, where they suffer horrific injuries and death.

Penalties will Add Bite

According to John Goodwin, The HSUS' Manager of Animal Fighting Issues, "New York City has more dogfights on any given weekend than any other city," making it a perfect place for Vallone's legislative crackdown on illegal dogfighting.

If Vallone's ordinance passes, it promises to take a big bite out of dogfighting crimes, with the large monetary penalties—potentially reaching into the hundreds of thousands of dollars—sure to make an indelible impression on cruel dogfighters.

And because dogfighting goes hand in hand with other types of criminal activity, including illegal narcotics use, illicit firearms and gang activity, it may also bring a welcome measure of safety to New York City streets, for both animals and people.

What You Can Do

Learn the signs of dogfighting in your neighborhood, and what you can do about it.

See the Video

HSUS Undercover: Inside Animal Fighting

Dogfighting Fact Sheet

Taking Action to End Dogfighting: How to Spot the Signs and What You Can Do

State Dogfighting Laws