Currently correcting all the gramatical errors in my dog fighting essay ^^; sorry guys

Dog Fighting

Dog fighting, a widespread illegal blood sport in which dogs are bred, trained, and tortured into fighting another dog to the death. Bets are placed, dogs are forced to kill each other. They are cruelly trained, and cruelly disposed of. Dog fighting is a cruel and sick form of entertainment which needs to be wiped off the face of the earth along with the people who are involved in it.

Dog fighting originated in England in the 1800’s. In the pits, the dogs were to fight each other until both were mangled, but not to the death. Although not to justify the original sport, they did take the dogs out of the pit when and if they became too mangled to fight anymore and had nurses on the sidelines to bandage their wounds. After the pit bull came to America in 1817, the sport became a widespread American pastime and was even endorsed by the United Kennel Club with rules and sanctioned fees.(Gibson, 4)  It had been outlawed in most states by 1860, but was still a popular sport and was even advertised on railroad tracks. (Gibson, 4)

Generally, the dogs used for fighting are not only pit bulls, but a small variety of different breeds. These breeds, not including Pit Bulls, include Rottwielers, American Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bull Terriers, Bulldogs, and Dobermans, all of which are mistakenly referred to as pit bulls by the media. Although different breeds by nature, they all have the same bad reputation because they are commonly used in dog fighting, therefore are tacked with the stigma of aggression and dangerousness. Pit Bulls are the main and most common breed used in dog fighting. Not only because of their strength, but because of another reason that the media fails to recognise. Generally, the Pit Bull is fiercely loyal and devoted to their master, making them more likely to take the abuse and neglect that their masters inflict upon them during training and in the ring, and still have little to no aggression towards humans. (Gibson, 2) All of these breeds are great candidates for the blood sport because of their physical prowess and strong jaws. These gifts are exploited and made to seem like a curse to be a the breed that they are. 

The people used in dog fighting are divided into three different groups. These groups are classified by the way in which they involve themselves in dog fighting. These four groups are:

“Street Fighters”. These types of fights usually take place on street corners, playgrounds, back alleys, etc. They are often and usually very spontaneous, held over disputes between gangs, triggered by insults, taunts, or as a way to prove status. With total withdrawal of the classic rules and regulations of the original pit fight, the people involved in the “street fight” have little to no respect for their dogs, using the same training methods as mentioned earlier in this essay. Often, the police discover dead or close to dying animals when they seize a pit fight. This is because they have their animals fight to the death, and leave living ones mangled on the floor, left to die. In a classic pit fight, one of the original rules were to nurse injured animals after the fight. This type of dog fighting is also involved in gang activity. A lot of the fights involve the use of drugs and money. 

“Hobbyist”. These types of dog fighters are a more formal type of fighter, pay more attention to the breeding and training of their dogs, and often go out of state for events. 

“Professional” This type of fighter is a very experienced, very formal, and very serious dog fighter. The Professional dog fighter often has a large number of dogs, reaching up to numbers of 50 or more. They pay specific attention to the breeding, look for specific bloodlines and are very particular about what type of dog they use. They will frequently “dispose” of loosing dogs using methods like shooting, blunt force, and by selling them to street fighters. This contributes greatly to the dog biting problem, and further causing BSL to arise and reputations of certain breeds to plummet. (Top Ten Dog Fighting Questions, 2) There are an estimated 40,000 “Professional” Dog fighters. In addition, there are an estimated 100,000 “Street Fighters”. (About Dog Fighting, 5)

Certain techniques are used on fighting dogs to help improve their “gameness”, or their willingness to fight. These means of training can be cruel and painful to the animal, and are downright sick. They use things like treadmills to improve their speed and agility. They use something called a catmill or Jenny, in which they will attach one dog to one side of the beam, and a bait animal like a cat or a rabbit on the other side of the beam. The dog chases the bait for exercise, and in the end, is usually rewarded with the bait they used. (Gibson 2) Another thing they use, one of the sickest forms of training in my opinion, is a bait dog. The trainer will tie up a smaller dog for their fighter to tear up and maul, or will put the bait and the fighting dog in a confined area for the animal to be chased and mauled by the fighting dog. Another thing that is used for training are drug supplements and steroids. Testosterone supplements, magnum, and speed are only some of the drugs used to improve a fighting dog in size, strength, and build. (Gibson 2)

When the trainer thinks their dog is “ready”, they hold small scraps called “rolls” or “bumps”, in which they will test their gameness in short controlled fights with an older, more experienced fighting dog. If the dog gets through the test, they are considered “match ready” and is put into the fighting pit. (Gibson 3)

A general dog fight usually has the two dogs, their trainers, and a referee. The pit is usually between 20 and 40 square feet, the sides could be anything that can hold the dogs, usually plywood, hay bales, or chain link fences. The floor will usually have something called “scratch lines”, where the dogs will be held before the fight. (Dog Fighting FAQ, 17) When the ref calls the cue, the dogs are set free and attack each other. Depending on the dog and the type of fight, these battles can last anywhere between 20 minutes to 40 minutes, and the dogs are fought until one is either dead or so mutilated that it cannot defend itself. When the fight is over, the losing dog has a grim future. They are usually killed or left to die with its injuries. Sometimes, if the dog is considered an embarrassment to their trainer or owner, it may be shot right there in the ring as use for further entertainment. (Dog Fighting FAQ, 17) 

 “His face is a mass of deep cuts, as are his shoulders and neck. Both of his front legs have been broken, but Billy Bear isn’t ready to quit. At the referee’s signal, his master releases him, and unable to support himself on his front legs, he slides on his chest across the blood and urine stained carpet, propelled by his good hind legs, toward the opponent who rushes to meet him. Driven by instinct, intensive training and love for the owner who has brought him to this moment, Billy Bear drives himself painfully into the other dog’s charge… Less than 20 minutes later, rendered useless by the other dog, Billy Bear lies spent beside his master, his stomach constricted with pain. He turns his head back toward the ring, his eyes glazed searching for a last look at the other dog as receives a bullet in his brain.” (Gibson, 8)

Like was said before, not all the dogs used for fighting are actual pit bulls. However, people involved in the sport will breed other breeds with certain pit bulls if they like the traits of that dog. These breedings are usually underground and are done by what is called a “Non-reputable Breeder”. These people do not invest much time or money into breeding their dogs, know little to nothing about genetics, and breed their dogs specifically for looks, gameness, and aggression level. A reputable breeder is someone who usually runs an organization, stays in line with the pedigree, knows, and researches everything they need to know about genetics. The dogs bred “underground” a lot of the time have serious defects and numerous health problems. These are usually the dogs used in dog fights.

Amongst other reasons, one of the hugest reasons behind why people fight dogs is gambling and drug dealing. Spectators place bets on their favorite fighter, the trainers place bets on whose dog wins. There is often hundreds to thousands of dollars involved in these bets. There is drug use, and is often a factor in gang behavior. They use them to fight over turf, money, drug deals, and status. 

“When the 27 seized dogs are put into transport kennels, they strain at the confinement. Several bite through the plastic, causing cuts as they try to break free. Others bite at the metal on the transports. A local veterinarian is called to tranquilize the animals so that they can be safely transported to the Animal Humane Society’s St. Paul location where they can be cared for by trained staff. These dogs have been trained to fight each other so it is uncertain whether they will be aggressive towards humans.”

(Lieffring & Shwartz Pit Bulls, 7)

In most situations, dogs seized from the fighting pit are humanely euthanized due to the fact that these animals are bred and trained to fight one another to the death. Therefore, the shelters fear that these dogs may have human aggression. And even if they do not show it, they fear that the dog will snap and attack a human, and therefore cannot risk putting them up for adoption. Dog fighting is a sad and depressing way to live and to die, whether or not they are saved by good people.

In all 50 states, dog fighting is outlawed. It is also outlawed in Guam, Puerto Rico, District of Columbia, and the U.S Virgin Islands. Although it is considered a felony and is punishable by law, dog fighting is such an underground sport that it often goes completely unnoticed. Fear has caused some areas to outlaw the ownership of certain dog breeds. This is called Breed-Specific Legislation, or BSL. For example, it is illegal to own a pit bull in the city of Miami. If someone is caught in ownership of one, the dog is confiscated and either taken to the next town over or destroyed. This is an extremely controversial idea, but is unfortunately the only way for some towns to protect themselves and feel save living there. If it weren’t for dog fighting, these laws would not be needed.

Individuals that are for dog fighting, who involve themselves in it, will argue my point by saying that dog fighting is a classic form of entertainment, and that it is a great way to make steady income for those who are victims of urban decay. They will say that there is nothing wrong with being involved in it. These people are wrong and blind to the suffering these animals undergo. Not to justify the classic pit fight, but the classic fight comes with strict laws and regulations that more or less protect the animals used in the pit, most of which are stripped in a modern fight. Dog fighting is also something that happens in all regions, not just in the slums and poorer regions. 

If people can simply stop being so blind and see what is happening in their own basements, on their own streets, maybe we can put a stop to this cruel and maddening blood sport. There is no reason for such cruel actions against the innocent, and there are other ways of gaining the so-called “benefits” that the blood sport offers. The lives of these dogs are rendered hopeless from the moment they are put into the hands of their handlers, to the unfortunate ending to their rescue. Dog fighting is a cruel and sick form of entertainment, and needs to be wiped off the face of the planet, along with those involved.

Benefits of Pet Ownership

Have you ever had a four-legged best friend as a child? Do you happen to still have him? Have you ever seen a blind person being guided by a trained animal to do their daily activities? The effects of pet ownership is proven to be beneficial in the lives of human beings. Animals can be beneficial to a persons happiness, health, and safety, and can even aid in raising a responsible, happy child.

First of all, owning a pet can change a persons mood. Research shows that for the human brain, taking care of something releases serotonin, a chemical in the brain responsible for making people feel happy.  There is also a therapeutic factor in having animals around. Have you ever gone into a hospital and seen people walking around with dogs or holding a cat? Animals are even brought to institutes for special needs people, because they pick raise their spirits. It’s sort of a mental thing, where if a person sees an animal happy after being with them, it makes that person feel better about themselves. Plus, who could possibly be in a bad mood after seeing the adorable eyes of a happy puppy looking up at them, just happy that they’re home? Research has also shown that people are more comfortable being themselves with an animal in the room, than a friend or even a spouse. This is most likely because of the fact that animals don’t judge people. 

There’s also a benefit towards health that goes into having a pet. People who have dogs tend to go outside more, walk more, and excersize more. Having an animal that requires a person to go outside and run around with them, of course, makes a person more willing to excersize. Which brings us to the benefits of the elderly and owning a pet. According to a team of Canadian researchers lead by Dr. Parminder Raina, there was a significant difference health wise in elderly people who owned a pet, versus those who did not. For the elderly, pets can put a stake in the effects of isolation or loneliness, and give them a better willingness to live. They also were proven to be more physically active than non-pet owners, which made them more likely to be able to carry out daily activities. Here’s something most people probably don’t know: Pets can lower your blood pressure. A recent study done in New York showed that hypertensive stockbrokers who had a pet, had lower blood pressure and heart rates than those who did not. Needless to say, after the research was publicized, those stockbrokers who didn’t have a pet, got one! 

In the lives of children, animals have played a huge part for as long as history has been recorded. Having a pet can improve a childs ability to learn and be responsible. If a child has a pet of their own and is given some of the responsibility of caring for it, like feeding it, cleaning up after it, walking it, etc., that can teach that child to be more responsible in later years. Also, when a child is left at home, the animal becomes protective of that child, which gives parents a little peace of mind, knowing that their child is safe with that animal. 

In conclusion, pet ownership is in fact beneficial in the lives of human beings. Pet ownership can improve a persons mood, make people healthier, and in a way, help raise children. It is said that “A house is not a home without a pet”. A lot of people just saw this as a quote from an animal lover, but there is actually scientific research and proof behind that cute little quote. Who would have known?

I hate the part where he has to gooo… I just wanna not have to go home and just stay with him. -sigh- The time will come eventually I guess

 I love my Pit Bull. Hate the deed, not the breed. Pit Bull Supporter for life <3

DISCLAIMER: I did not write this. All credit for this poem goes to one of my most favorite writers, Shel Silverstien.

The Unicorn
from the book “Where the Sidewalk Ends” (1974)

A long time ago, when the earth was green
and there was more kinds of animals than you’ve ever seen,
and they run around free while the world was bein’ born,
and the lovliest of all was the Unicorn.

There was green alligators and long-neck geese.
There was humpy bumpy camels and chimpanzees.
There was catsandratsandelephants, but sure as you’re born
the lovliest of all was the Unicorn.

But the Lord seen some sinnin’, and it caused him pain.
He says, “Stand back, I’m gonna make it rain.”
He says, “Hey Brother Noah, I’ll tell ya whatcha do.
Go and build me a floatin’ zoo.

And you take two alligators and a couple of geese,
two humpy bumpy camels and two chimpanzees.
Take two catsandratsandelephants, but sure as you’re born,
Noah, don’t you forget my Unicorn.”

Now Noah was there, he answered the callin’
and he finished up the ark just as the rain was fallin’.
He marched in the animals two by two,
and he called out as they went through,

“Hey Lord, I got your two alligators and your couple of geese,
your humpy bumpy camels and your chimpanzees.
Got your catsandratsandelephants - but Lord, I’m so forlorn
‘cause I just don’t see no Unicorn.”

Ol’ Noah looked out through the drivin’ rain
but the Unicorns were hidin’, playin’ silly games.
They were kickin’ and splashin’ in the misty morn,
oh them silly Unicorn.

The the goat started goatin’, and the snake started snakin’,
the elephant started elephantin’, and the boat started shaking’.
The mouse started squeakin’, and the lion started roarin’,
and everyone’s abourd but the Unicorn.

I mean the green alligators and the long-neck geese,
the humpy bumpy camels and the chimpanzees.
Noah cried, “Close the door ‘cause the rain is pourin’ -
and we just can’t wait for them Unicorn.”

Then the ark started movin’, and it drifted with the tide,
and the Unicorns looked up from the rock and cried.
And the water come up and sort of floated them away -
that’s why you’ve never seen a Unicorn to this day.

You’ll see a lot of alligators and a whole mess of geese.
You’ll see humpy bumpy camels and lots of chimpanzees.
You’ll see catsandratsandelephants, but sure as you’re born
you’re never gonna see no Unicorn