January 12, 2008

NEW YORK – According to the Associated Press, evidence of dogfighting has been showing up throughout New York City suburbs ever since the Michael Vick case gained popularity.

The latest evidence was found over the weekend by a gas station worker in White Plains, just north of Manhattan. The employee discovered two pit bulls in a dumpster behind the establishment. One was dead and another was barely clinging to life. Both animals were severely injured.

Preceding this weekend's findings, six scarred dogs were found in a Yonkers garage in October. Five Rottweilers and a pit bull were found in Mount Vernon two months before that.

Authorities say dogfighting has a close tie to gang activity. Rival gangs get together to fight their dogs, competing for prowess in the neighborhood.

Fortunately, the dog that survived this weekend's abandonment is doing better. But a Westchester County ASPCA official said if the dog was trained for fighting, it may have to be euthanized.

For more info on dog fighting and how you can make a difference, go to www.aspca.org

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