National Dog Fighting Awareness Day

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Please spread the word!!!! The ASPCA has officially designated today, as National Dog Fighting Awareness Day to raise awareness about dog fighting brutality.

April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals month, and the ASPCA is raising awareness on the prevalence of dog fighting in our country, and encouraging animal lovers across the country to take action against this brutal form of animal cruelty. On April 8th, they’ll be hosting a Google+ Hangout with national experts to discuss the underground world of dog fighting with a panel moderated by ABC News anchor Dan Harris. The discussion will include little-known truths about the blood sport and its continued prevalence in America. During the Google+ Hangout, there will be live social media Q&A’s across Facebook, Twitter and Google+ in which users will be able to submit questions about dog fighting with the hashtag #NDFAD and ASPCA experts will be answering them live.

ASPCA experts include:
Tim Rickey – VP, ASPCA Field Investigations & Response
Dr. Pam Reid – VP, ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Behavior
Dr. Randall Lockwood – SVP, ASPCA Forensic Sciences & Anti-Cruelty Projects
Jessica Johnson – Sr. Mgr., ASPCA Grassroots Advocacy

The ASPCA press release states they will also feature an interactive information and advocacy center on ASPCA.org that includes:

The premiere of a never-before-seen short documentary, including undercover footage of dog fights, ASPCA rescue activity at dog fighting raids and expert insight.
An interactive quiz that debunks common misconceptions about dog fighting and the dogs and people involved in this so-called sport.
A “virtual museum” photo gallery of dog fighting and training paraphernalia, including dog treadmills, fighting pits and narcotics used to increase aggression before a fight
Profiles of dog fighting victims rescued by the ASPCA — most recently from the second-largest dog fighting raid in U.S. history

Not everyone is aware of the horrific nature of dog fighting and the prevalence of this crime in the U.S., not to mention the long road that lies ahead for many dog fighting victims once they are removed from living in isolation on heavy chains. The goal of National Dog Fighting Awareness Day is to elevate the perception of dog fighting from an isolated criminal act to a deep and persistent stain on our national character.dogfight3

Don’t forget to join the special Google Hangout. The Hangout will discuss the issue of dog fighting, the ASPCA’s efforts to tackle this brutal crime and what people can do to help. It will also feature a dog rescued from a dog fighting case and given a second chance in a loving home.