National Dog Fighting Awareness Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Dog Fighting Awareness Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Dog Fighting Awareness Day is celebrated on April 8th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Dog Fighting Awareness Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you should know about National Dog Fighting Awareness Day.

📅 What day is National Dog Fighting Awareness Day 2024?

In 2024, National Dog Fighting Awareness Day is on Saturday, April 8th. It is the 2nd Saturday in April; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the exciting details and facts about April 8, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

In 2014, April 8 was declared as “National Dog Fighting Awareness Day” to draw attention to the ongoing issue of dogfighting. Despite its illegality across the country, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) acknowledges the presence of numerous dogfighting rings. This designated day, which falls within Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month in April, aims to increase awareness and motivate individuals to combat dogfighting. These brutal competitions involve training dogs to harm or even kill their opponents, leaving the defeated animals abandoned without proper medical attention.

📜 National Dog Fighting Awareness Day History

During the 12th century, English nobles became fond of a popular activity where they would have chained bulls and bears fight each other. However, by the 19th century, people started to complain about the lack of availability and high cost of bulls and bears, as well as the cruelty towards animals involved. In response to these concerns, the British Parliament made this activity illegal in 1835. Unfortunately, this led to the rise of dog-on-dog fighting as a substitute. People began breeding dogs with the intention of creating stronger breeds for this purpose.

The practice of dogfighting spread to the United States and other countries before the Civil War. As society became more aware of animal cruelty, most states in the US banned bloodsports by the 1860s. In 1966, the A.S.P.C.A. (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) was established, and in 1976, dogfighting was officially banned in all states. However, enforcement of this ban was not effective until research showed a connection between dogfighting and other criminal activities.

In May 2007, the Animal Combat Prohibition Act was enacted, imposing a three-year jail sentence for transporting animals across state or international borders for fighting purposes. To combat animal fighting, the A.S.P.C.A. formed a special unit dedicated to investigating these activities in December 2010. They have also worked with the United States Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. In 2017, their efforts resulted in the rescue of nearly 300 dogs from 13 dogfighting operations across 11 states.

✅ National Dog Fighting Awareness Day Facts

🔖 Around 40,000 Americans participate each year
Several American organizations hold the belief that this statistic encompasses various individuals involved in the dog industry such as trainers, breeders, event organizers, spectators, and bettors.

🔖 Weaker dogs are used as disposable targets
Within the world of dog fighting, these individuals are known as “cold.” They are utilized to train the “prize dog” in order to ensure that not only the defeated dogs in actual fights face death.

🔖 Over 16,000 dogs die every year
According to animal rescue organizations in the United States, they believe this is the estimated figure, although it is difficult to ascertain with certainty due to the underreporting of many instances of dog fighting.

👍 Why Is National Dog Fighting Awareness Day Important

People who want to adopt a dog usually go to animal shelters, but this day reminds us that some dogs require more care than others. Not everyone can care for animals that have been through so much, but the more people who hear their tales, the more likely they are to be adopted.

If you suspect you’ve come across a dog fighting ring or a canine victim, don’t approach it. It can be very dangerous, regardless of how badly injured the dog is, and should be handled by professionals.

Many people believe that because dog fighting is banned in the United States, it occurs only on rare occasions. or that it exclusively occurs in high-crime locations. This day serves as a reminder that, sadly, dog fighting is still prevalent.

🙂 How To Observe National Dog Fighting Awareness Day

⚡ Adopt a former fighting dog
Although these dogs may seem completely healed, it is important to note that they can still exhibit aggressive behavior due to experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), just like humans. Therefore, it is necessary to be cautious when dealing with them. However, with proper care and caution, these dogs have the potential to become extremely happy, grateful, and loyal companions. Handsome Dan’s Rescue is an organization that specializes in training and finding homes for dogs that have been victims of dog fighting. You can learn about how these dogs are rehabilitated and even consider adopting one if you believe you can provide the necessary care.

⚡ Sign the petition to pass the HEART Act
The HEART Act aims to make it possible for more dogs that have been victims of crimes to be used as evidence and receive the necessary rehabilitation. Additionally, it would require the defendant to cover all costs of veterinary care and, if possible, assist in the dog’s complete recovery. To find out more about the HEART Act and express your backing for it, please visit the provided link.

⚡ Learn how to tell if a dog is involved in dog fighting
There are several signs that may indicate animal abuse, such as dogs with multiple scars, including torn lips or ears. These dogs are typically pit bull mixes weighing around 40 to 50 lbs. They are often seen chained up with heavy chains and may be kept in close proximity to each other, sometimes just inches apart. The area where the dogs are kept may have a dirt ring around it, indicating their limited movement. In some cases, these dogs may be secluded in a hidden area like a basement, away from public view. It is important to educate yourself about the warning signs of animal abuse and know how to report it.

📅 When is National Dog Fighting Awareness Day?

Explore all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Animal and other 🔗 American holidays.

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