Kentucky One Step Closer To Outlawing Dog Fighting

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Kentucky is the last state in the U.S. to end dog fighting – but a new bill is hoping to change all that.

We’re pleased to report that the state of Kentucky is looking to expand its dog fighting law to include owning, possessing, keeping, training, selling or transferring “four-legged animals” for fighting purposes.

Wait a minute… hasn’t dog fighting a felony since 2008?

Related:Gracie’s Law Says Dogs More Than Property

It certainly is in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is also illegal to be a spectator in a fight, even a worse one if you bring a child under the age of 16 to one. Federal law states that if proven guilty, the person charged can face up to five years in prison and pay a hefty fine. But to get to that decision, the states have divided the punishment into different misdemeanor categories: an A misdemeanor carrying the strongest punishment, while a D misdemeanor being the lessor of charges (the person charged will still be in trouble, just not receiving the maximum penalty).

Kentucky currently carries a “Misdemeanor D” penalty on dogfighting. And because it has the lowest punishment possible, it has become a mecca for illegal fight activity.

Related:Michael Vick Spotted Taking Dog Training Classes

According to House Speaker Greg Stumbo, D-Prestonburg: “Kentucky is the only state without such a law, and that has spurred an increase in breeding and training of fighting dogs in the state, particularly near the West Virginia and Tennessee state lines.” Under the current law, the perpetrator has to be caught in the act of dogfighting in order to be charged. Dogfighting organizers know this, so they hold their illegal fights in places it’s hardest to be prosecuted. Broadening the bill will make it easier to catch and prosecute them.

Dogfights can generate as much as $10,000 per event – a lucrative endeavor for heartless *&%$#@ (we couldn’t come up with a word strong enough to describe them, but you get the picture). Changing the misdemeanor will make criminals think twice before fighting dogs in Kentucky.

The bill seems to be popular on both sides of the political parties and looks like it will be turned into law, except for a minor detail: the term “Four-legged animal” is causing a bit of confusion. What’s the need for it to be so broad? Why can it just be exclusive for dogs?

Nope – it turns out that pigs, horses and donkeys are also being used in illegal fighting circles. So if the bill only includes dogs, the fight organizers will just move on to putting other animals in the ring to fight and die.

As well, there are questions being raised as to why “two-legged animals” are not included in the bill. What about those involved in cockfighting? On this point, Rep. Johnny Bell, D-Glasgow, had this to say: “Any animal fighting for gambling is barbaric, regardless of how many legs they have.” Talks about including “two-legged animals” in the bill are already underway.

Are you curious about where your state stands on the issue and how it’s dealing with dog fighting? Check out the 2014 list on Federal and State Dogfighting Statutes. If you don’t like what you see, take action. Join your local ASPCA or Humane Society chapters and help your community get rid of this inhumane practice while helping fight dogs regain a normal, happy life they deserve.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Spike

Let’s head up north to meet Spike, our Adoptable Dog of the Week. Spike is a 1-year-old Shepherd mix from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He is neutered and…

DIY Pineapple Dog Halloween Costume

This year''s hottest fruit - the pineapple! This Halloween, turn your pooch into a tropical treat with a Halloween costume you can make yourself.

7 Ways To Get Your Dog Ready For Winter

Before the weather outside turns frightful, make sure you and your dog are ready for winter Brrrrrr! It’s already starting to get cold outside. In no t…

Flounder

The flounder is also known as a flatfish; a fitting name because its body is laterally compressed and it lays on its side, burrowing into the substrate.

Flash A Friend With Our Fruitables Snow Day Contest

Get ready for a snow day – on Thursday, Nov. 20, you’ll be snowed over by our Fruitables Snow Day Contest! Everyone loves a Snow Day – scho…

Golden Shouldered Parrot

Golden Shouldered Parrot is truly a one-of-a-kind sight, and one of Australia''s most colorful birds. Find out more about this exotic breed and their care.

Kittens And Cocktails: Pairing 2 Awesome Essentials For 2 Great Causes

Don your top hat and tails for a great cause! Oakland''s Cat Town Cafe celebrates Adopt-A Cat Month with special fundraising event and cat swag giveaway.

Study: Feline Hyperthyroidism May Linked To Carpet and Furniture Chemi

New research about the chemicals that are found in carpeting and certain upholsteries suggests that your cat’s thyroid may be in danger. Dr. Miaomiao…

Pet Travel And Housesitting: The Joys Of Travelling Full-Time With My

For many, travel is a way of life. Take Lauren Bassart. She packed up her hubby and dog and took to the road to travel the world. Recently, Lauren began hous…

Best Dog Bowls

Dog bowls come in all shapes, sizes, designs, and materials- find out how to choose one that will be the best match for your pet''s needs.?

How To Remove A Tick From A Dog

They''re more than an irritant - these little bloodsuckers can mean big trouble for you and your pooch. Here''s how to remove a tick from a dog.

Miniature Bulldog

Miniature Bulldog usually refers to a hybrid mix of a purebred Bulldog with a purebred Pug, but can also be a purebred Bulldogs bred down for size.

Asian Cichlids

There are nine species of Asian cichlids which can be found in Lebanon, Israel, Syria, Iran, India, and Sri Lanka. These cichlids are mouth brooders.

Best Warm and Cozy Gifts for Dogs

The days are shorter and the temps are dropping, but there are lots of products that can make sure your dog stays nice and toasty all winter long. Here are our top pet products for a warm and cozy holiday season.

The Shocking Truth About Dogs and Garlic

There is a lot of controversy surrounding dogs and garlic on the Internet. Thanks to the research efforts of experts, many believe garlic is good for dogs.