On May 3, 2007, the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act was signed into law. Although dog fighting is outlawed throughout the country, and cockfighting is illegal in most states (all except Louisiana), this federal measure makes it a felony to transport both animals to be used in fighting and animal fighting equipment across state lines.

Animal cruelty is the cornerstone of animal fighting activities. Roosters are fitted with small knives and other implements as sharp as razors and often are pumped up on drugs to make them more aggressive and inflict more injuries and death. Dogs that are bred and trained to fight are encouraged to maim and kill their opponents. Injured animals often do not receive any medical attention and are left to suffer and die after a fight. In addition, animal fighting rings often coincide with illegal activities such as drugs, gambling and violent crimes against humans.

This is one of those animal issues that galvanizes widespread support from animal rights activists, animal welfare proponents, law enforcement and animal-related industry groups. Finding common ground is essential to social change.

This law will not completely stop underground animal fighting, but I am hopeful that it will put law enforcement agencies in a better position to uphold the laws protecting animals.