It's about time...

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Michael Vick pleaded guilty today on the indictment that was given this past Tuesday by a federal grand jury in Richmond, Virginia.

It's a very sad issue and I wish that there would simply be an eye for an eye, let the punishment fit the crime. I guarantee that people would serioiusly think twice about actions they take.

I remember watching a movie called Amores Perros about 7 years ago and it involved dogfighting in the plot of the movie. I never realized there was dogfighting and this movie made me aware of this horrible activity. (No dogs were hurt during the filming of this movie).

I have always grown up with animals and know my pets not only have made my world a better place, but have been a huge part of what completes my happiness. They are what we put into them - they are innocence, love, loyalty, respect and companions. Personally, laying down at night knowing they are right next to me, either by my bedside or laying their paw or head on my arm without wanting anything else in return...well, that's unconditional love.

I have a beautiful cat and two amazing dogs. They have the same routine everyday that I know they are going to do. They sleep until I wake up, they wait by the bathroom door until I get out of the shower and they greet me with smiles as soon as I open that door. My cat will meow until he's next to me, my puppy will stay on top of my feet where I almost trip, and my oldest dog will stay by my side with his ears pointed and tail just waggin'. It's the most awesome feeling - if you have pets, you know what I mean.

Something I can't fathom. There are over 40,000 people in the US that are involved in professional dogfighting and bets up to 100,000 for just one fight. It's illegal in the US and a felony (with the exception of Idaho and Wyoming where it is a misdemeanor). Who are these people that enjoy or seek out this? I do not get it and it turns my stomach ill.

The law states that violators can be sentenced up to three years in jail and pay over $250,000 in fines. I hope Mike Vick gets this + permanently banned from the NFL. End of story.

1. What is dogfighting?

Dogfighting is a sadistic "contest" in which two dogs—specifically bred, conditioned, and trained to fight—are placed in a pit (generally a small arena enclosed by plywood walls) to fight each other, for the spectators' gambling and entertainment. Fights average nearly an hour in length and often last more than two hours. Dogfights end when one of the dogs is no longer willing or able to continue. In addition to these dogfights, there are reports of an increase in unorganized, more spontaneous street fights in urban areas.

2. How does it cause animal suffering?

The injuries inflicted and sustained by dogs participating in dogfights are frequently severe, even fatal. The American pit bull terriers used in the majority of these fights have been specifically bred and trained for fighting and are unrelenting in their attempts to overcome their opponents. With their extremely powerful jaws, they are able to inflict severe bruising, deep puncture wounds, and broken bones.

Dogs used in these events often die of blood loss, shock, dehydration, exhaustion, or infection hours or even days after the fight. Other animals are often sacrificed as well. Some owners train their dogs for fights using smaller animals such as cats, rabbits, or small dogs. These "bait" animals are often stolen pets or animals obtained through "free to good home" advertisements.

3. Are there other concerns?

Yes. Numerous law enforcement raids have unearthed many disturbing facets of this illegal "sport." Young children are sometimes present at the events, which can promote insensitivity to animal suffering, enthusiasm for violence, and a lack of respect for the law. Illegal gambling is the norm at dogfights. Dog owners and spectators wager thousands of dollars on their favorites. Firearms and other weapons have been found at dogfights because of the large amounts of cash present. And dogfighting has been connected to other kinds of violence—even homicide, according to newspaper reports. In addition, illegal drugs are often sold and used at dogfights.

4. What other effects does the presence of dogfighting have on people and animals in a community?

Dogs used for fighting have been bred for many generations to be dangerously aggressive toward other animals. The presence of these dogs in a community increases the risk of attacks not only on other animals but also on people. Children are especially at risk, because their small size may cause a fighting dog to perceive a child as another animal.

5. Why should dogfighting be a felony offense?

There are several compelling reasons. Because dogfighting yields such large profits for participants, the minor penalties associated with misdemeanor convictions are not a sufficient deterrent. Dogfighters merely absorb these fines as part of the cost of doing business. The cruelty inherent in dogfighting should be punished by more than a slap on the hand. Dogfighting is not a spur-of-the-moment act; it is a premeditated and cruel practice.

Those involved in dogfighting go to extensive lengths to avoid detection by law enforcement, so investigations can be difficult, dangerous, and expensive. Law enforcement officials are more inclined to investigate dogfighting if it is a felony. As more states make dogfighting a felony offense, those remaining states with low penalties will become magnets for dogfighters.

6. Do some states already have felony laws?

Yes. Dogfighting is illegal in all 50 states and a felony offense in almost every state.

7. Should being a spectator also be a felony?

Yes. Spectators provide much of the profit associated with dogfighting. The money generated by admission fees and gambling helps keep this "sport" alive. Because dogfights are illegal and therefore not widely publicized, spectators do not merely happen upon a fight; they seek it out. They are willing participants who support a criminal activity through their paid admission and attendance.

8. What can I do to help stop dogfighting?

If you live in one of the states where dogfighting is still only a misdemeanor, please write to your state legislators and urge them to make it a felony.