Florida bust disrupts dogfighting ring, over 80 rescued
A multi-property suspected dogfighting bust is underway in Clay and Union counties in Florida. Over 80 dogs and puppies have been rescued from three properties, with assistance from Humane World for Animals, the Clay County Sheriff's Office, and the Union County Sheriff's Office.
Serious abuse and neglect found
Rescuers found many of the dogs on heavy chains with plastic barrels or makeshift shelters as their only source of shelter. Some were in filthy outdoor hutches and pens, stepping in their own feces. Two young puppies were discovered without their mother on one of the properties.
Veterinarians from the University of Florida Veterinary Forensics Sciences Laboratory determined many of the dogs had severe scars consistent with dogfighting. They were underweight, suffering from skin issues, sores, and recent wounds. One dog was found missing a foot, apparently having suffered a traumatic amputation that went untreated.
Dogfighting paraphernalia, including treadmills and breeding equipment, was found on each property.
