Dogfighting causes severe and often fatal injuries and egregious suffering. The dogs used in organized dogfighting operations are specifically bred and conditioned for fighting, which is only the beginning of a lifecycle of abuse and mistreatment.
Meredith Lee/Humane World for Animals
Latest Updates
June 9, 2025: Our Animal Rescue Team was asked to assist the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division in the rescue of 23 dogs and puppies from an alleged dogfighting operation involving two properties in Richland County, South Carolina. See a video. | Read a blog post.
June 12, 2025: Law enforcement officials served search and seizure warrants on two properties around 8 a.m. Most of the dogs throughout the properties were found living outdoors, panting on heavy chains with rudimentary shelters as their only protection from the elements. Veterinarians noted that many of the dogs had scars consistent with dogfighting. One dog was found with open, untreated wounds and a fractured leg. Some had no access to water, including a nursing mother dog contained in a cage with a litter of six puppies so young their eyes are not yet open. Responders noted a burial pit with bones and an apparent canine skull on one of the properties.
June 13, 2025: Responders and volunteers are providing the dogs with much-needed care and treatment at a safe, confidential location.
Looking at the scars on these dogs, it’s clear they have been through a lot, yet they greeted us with wagging tails and hopeful eyes. No dog deserves to suffer from the cruelty of dogfighting.
Janell Gregory, South Carolina state director, Humane World for Animals
Jean Chung/
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Meredith Lee/Humane World for Animals
Meredith Lee/Humane World for Animals
Meredith Lee/Humane World for Animals
Meredith Lee/Humane World for Animals
FAQs
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division issued a press release announcing that multiple people have been charged in connection with this case.
The rescued dogs are not available for adoption at this stage as we work to identify and address their immediate needs. We will provide placement information when that process beings.
The animals are in a safe location receiving treatment and much-needed TLC. We keep the location of animals rescued as part of law enforcement seizures confidential for the safety and security of the animals as well as that of our team on the ground.
The assistance of Humane World for Animals was requested by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, which is leading the investigation.
Many dogs rescued from dogfighting can go on to enjoy safe, happy lives as loving family members, often in homes with other pets. Each dog is unique, and rescue staff can help advise on which animals would thrive with companionship of other pets and how to facilitate introductions.
The socialization period is critical for all puppies, and adopters of puppies rescued from these situations should be diligent in setting their new puppy up for success through ongoing proper socialization and training.
We always hope to see positive outcomes and a new beginning for the animals we rescue, while recognizing that they have often endured a lot in terms of trauma, injuries and health challenges. We are providing a safe environment for these dogs to decompress and at this time, our focus is on identifying and addressing their immediate needs while providing expert care and TLC.
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We never know where disasters will strike or when animals may be in need of urgent rescue, but we know we must be ready. Your support makes our preparedness, rescue, care and relief work possible.
Anthony Rathbun/AP Images for the HSUS